Answer:
Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin also known as vitamin B3, which means that niacin is not stored in the body. Niacin helps the body use fat, protein and carbohydrates from foods to make energy. Niacin helps over 200 enzymes (natural chemicals in the body) to function normally in the body by helping the body use other B vitamins, and make DNA.
Niacin is required for most of the steps in energy production and helps keep the skin, nervous system, and digestive system healthy. Niacin deficiency causes pellagra, which is characterized by dermatitis, dementia, diarrhea, and death. Symptoms due to insufficiency include:
- Pigmented, cracked, and scaly skin areas that are exposed to the sun
- Mouth ulcers
- Red, purplish or magenta tongue
- Indigestion
- Lack of energy
- Disorientation and memory loss