Forms of Niacin
Nicotinamide is one of the most popular sources of niacin for supplementation because it does not cause the flushing effect often associated with nicotinic acid.
Dose
The reference intake for niacin is 16mg/day for adults.
The upper limit (for adults) for niacin is
- 900mg/day for nicotinamide
- 10mg/day nicotinic acid
For dosages of >20mg/day of niacin, the Department of Health encourage formulating with nicotinamide rather than nicotinic acid. They advise that levels over 20mg a day of nicotinic acid may cause skin flushes in sensitive individuals.
High dose nicotinamide treatment has been claimed to offer protection against the development
of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Long term high dose (3000-9000mg) nicotinamide therapy has been associated with reports of liver dysfunction.
Authorised EFSA Health Claims
Niacin contributes to normal psychological function
Niacin contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
Niacin contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system
Niacin contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes
Niacin contributes to the maintenance of normal skin
Niacin contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue