Australian skin cancer research has shown strong indications that vitamin B3 may reduce pre-cancerous lesions (thick scaly patches of pre-cancerous skin) by as much as 20% when supplementing with vitamin B3; the benefit appeared to be lost when supplementing topped. Results were noticeable after 3 months; the study was conducted over a 12 month period, it is thought that B3 niacin helped repair DNA damage, caused by excess UV exposure. This benefit was probably due to a significant boost of the immune response.
There are many benefits of maintaining healthy levels of vitamin B3 (niacin) as it supports healthy cholesterol levels, circulation, reduces diabetes risk, supports joint health and mobility. Niacin is also a catalyst to metabolise fats and proteins, also the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. B3 also supports the production of hormones and is essential for the health and maintenance of the nervous system. Vitamin B3 occurs naturally in natural health promoting foods, rich sources include; kidney beans, peanuts, broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, veal, turkey, grass-fed red meats, pork, cereals, tahini (sesame seed paste), cereal and last but not least as strange as it may seem coffee.
Symptoms that may indicate B3 niacin deficiency may include fatigue, depression, anxiety, memory loss, vomiting, disorientation, headaches, canker sores and various other skin conditions and digestion disorders.
Our liver converts tryptophan in our diet into B3 niacin, so it is important to recognise the fact that excessive consumption of alcohol may reduce B3 levels resulting in some of the above symptoms. So to maintain healthy B3 levels moderate alcohol consumption is recommended.