Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. It is found naturally in many foods, including meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, and legumes, or can be taken as a supplement. 

What Does Niacin Do? 

Niacin is essential for many bodily functions, including converting food into energy, maintaining healthy skin and nerves, and supporting the digestive system. One of the most important functions of niacin is its ability to help increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is commonly referred to as the "good" cholesterol. 

HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is the "bad" cholesterol that contributes to heart disease. By increasing HDL cholesterol, niacin can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Niacin also helps support the function of the liver and can be used as a detoxifier. In high doses, niacin has been shown to help rid the body of toxins and heavy metals, making it a popular choice for detox regimens. 

Benefits of Taking Vitamin B3 

Aside from its role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, niacin offers several other benefits when taken as a supplement. One of the most significant benefits of niacin is its ability to improve cognitive function. Niacin has been shown to help improve memory and focus, making it a popular choice for students and professionals. 

Niacin also helps support healthy skin by reducing inflammation and promoting collagen production. This can help improve the appearance of skin and reduce the signs of aging. 

In addition, niacin has been shown to help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. 

Foods Rich in Vitamin B3 

While niacin can be taken as a supplement, it is also found naturally in many foods. Some of the best dietary sources of vitamin B3 include: 

Protein: Beef, chicken, pork and most vegan sources of protein like tofu are fortified and are all excellent sources of Vitamin B3. 

Fish: Tuna, salmon, and halibut are all high in vitamin B3. 

Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat are all good sources of niacin. 

Legumes: Lentils, kidney beans, and chickpeas are all high in vitamin B3. 

Conclusion 

Vitamin B3 (niacin) capsules should be an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. It helps support healthy cholesterol levels, improve cognitive function, promote healthy skin, and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Niacin can be found naturally in many foods or taken as a supplement, making it easy to incorporate into a healthy diet. By adding more niacin-rich foods to your diet or taking a niacin supplement, you can reap the many benefits of this essential nutrient and support your overall health and wellbeing. For our full range of health enhancing supplements click here.