Vitamin B3 (Niacin) for Metabolism, Lipids, and Skin: Forms, Flushing, Daily Dosing
Overview
Vitamin B3 is needed to build NAD and NADP, which drive energy production, redox balance, and many enzyme reactions. People use it to cover basic needs, support skin and nerve health, and in some cases for lipid management under clinician guidance.
Some users cover Vitamin B3 and other B vitamins with a balanced Multivitamin.
What Vitamin B3 is and how it works
Vitamin B3 includes niacin (nicotinic acid) and niacinamide (nicotinamide). Both support NAD and NADP dependent reactions involved in ATP production, DNA repair, and antioxidant systems. Niacin at higher doses also affects lipids.
What you may notice when B3 is in a good range
Energy metabolism
Supports efficient use of carbs, fats, and proteins for fuel. Deficiency can feel like fatigue, weakness, or brain fog.
Skin and nervous system
Helps maintain normal skin and nerve function. Severe lack shows as dermatitis, diarrhea, and cognitive changes.
Lipids (high dose niacin only)
Prescription strength niacin can change HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, but this is a medical intervention, not DIY.
Safety, dosing and who should be careful
Typical dosing
Basic coverage: 14 to 35 mg per day from diet and standard supplements.
High dose: 500 to 2,000 mg niacin for lipids is prescription territory with lab monitoring.
Side effects
Niacin (higher doses):
Flushing, warmth, itching
Possible nausea or upset stomach
With chronic high doses: risk of liver stress, high blood sugar, high uric acid
Niacinamide:
Generally well tolerated at moderate doses
Very high intakes may still stress the liver
Drug and condition cautions
Use caution with high dose niacin if you:
have liver disease, gout, or diabetes
take statins or other lipid meds
use alcohol heavily
Product quality
Choose:
third party tested products
clear labeling of form (niacin vs niacinamide) and mg per serving
avoid unneeded “mega” niacin products for casual use
Who should avoid high dose niacin
people with significant liver disease unless supervised
those with uncontrolled gout or high uric acid
pregnant individuals unless guided
anyone who develops persistent flushing with pain, severe itching, yellowing skin, or dark urine
