Doctor Unveils Vitamin B3's Role in Promoting Healthy Aging

There are many reasons to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and nutrients. B vitamins, in particular, play a significant role in overall health. While we often hear a lot about B12, that isn't the only one we need.

Niacin, also known as B3, plays a significant role in how we age. So, if you're not ready or interested in getting a face full of Botox, this simple supplement might help you look your best years down the road.

Hear what makes this nutrient so crucial in a video shared on June 15:

Dr. Erig Berg (@ drbergofficial ) explains that the number one reason we need niacin (vitamin B3) is for our mitochondria. It's a precursor for our NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which influences many cellular functions, including metabolic pathways, DNA repair, and immune cell function. So, when we have ample amounts of niacin, we produce more energy from the foods we eat.

Related: Naturopathic Doctor Explains How B Vitamins Can Impact Thyroid Function

Dr. Berg describes that most diseases originate in the mitochondria, and NAD deficiency is seen in all degenerative diseases. This is especially true for diseases related to aging, as our NAD levels continue to decline as we age. Another way to increase our level is by consuming tryptophan, which can be converted into niacin. In addition, he tells us that tryptophan also converts to serotonin and melatonin to help us sleep. He emphasizes that vitamin B3 is essential for skin health, and having a deficiency will cause scaly, damaged skin. When used in a skincare product , it's commonly seen as niacinamide, which may help to lower inflammation, control oil production, and improve appearance.

Benefits of Niacin

1. Niacin can be beneficial for treating high HDL cholesterol levels while lowering LDL and triglycerides.
2. Emerging research has shown niacin plays a crucial role in lowering blood pressure .
3. It also plays a significant role in our nervous system and digestive health.

Foods that contain niacin include red meat, poultry, fish, nuts, beans, and bananas. Although you cannot overdose on niacin when it is in food, according to WebMD, it is possible to take too much in supplement form. Symptoms of overdose include rapid heartbeat, flushing with dizziness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, itching, rash, and gout. Caution should also be taken for anyone on diabetes drugs, blood thinners, anticonvulsants, thyroid medication, and blood pressure medication. As with any new supplement, it's always best to seek help from a licensed medical professional before beginning.

If you don't want to add another supplement, eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods should help provide you with everything you need. Once again, staying away from ultra-processed foods, which lack essential nutrients, seems to be best for preventing a host of diseases.

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