What is the source of Niacin?

Answer 1

Excellent sources of vitamin B3 include mushrooms and tuna.

Very good sources include beef liver, halibut, asparagus, sea vegetables, venison, chicken, and salmon.

The term "niacin," often used interchangeably with the term "vitamin B3," is a non-chemical term that can actually refer to several different forms of the vitamin. Most often, "niacin" is used to refer to "nicotinic acid," the form of vitamin B3 with documented cholesterol-lowering potential. This form of the vitamin also carries with it the greatest risk of side effects. Supplements focused on cholesterol reduction and alteration of fat metabolism typically include vitamin B3 in the form of nicotinic acid.

The nicotinamide form of vitamin B3 is also widely available in supplement form. This chemical form of vitamin B3 carries a much lower risk of side effects and is commonly used in supplement formulas designed to support health in conditions not involving cholesterol excess or altered fat metabolism. Particularly in formulas for pregnancy or in children's formulas, the nicotinamide version is often preferred. Many formulas include both forms of vitamin B3, with small amounts of nicotinic acid and larger amounts of nicotinamide.