While the niacinamide form of vitamin B3 doesn’t affect cholesterol levels or cause the red flush of the skin like its B3 cousin niacin does, it still has many unique functional benefits. It’s required for hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body. It provides vital nutritional support for joint health, balanced blood glucose levels, and the cardiovascular system.*
About 2/3 of your body’s niacinamide is made from the amino acid, tryptophan. Some people supplement niacinamide to fill this pathway and force tryptophan down the serotonin pathway, supporting healthy serotonin levels.*
Niacinamide becomes part of two related oxidation reduction coenzymes: NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and its close cousin NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These coenzymes transport the vital hydride ion as NADH and NADPH respectively. The output of the glycolytic and Kreb’s cycle in the mitochondria is NADH which then forms 3ATPs. This is important because without ATP, our cells and organs would not function properly.*
Possibly the most exciting benefit of niacinamide is its anti-aging effects. Research has revealed a longevity gene known as Sir2 (silent information regulator 2) that produces the protein Sir2p that has been shown to extend cell life. Niacinamide enhances Sir2p activity by increasing NAD.* (For more on Sir2 and Sir2p, look at our new Extension Resveratrol formula and its related articles.)
Niacinamide helps balance the inflammatory response by mediating Interleukin I (IL-1) and by inhibiting the Nitric Oxide (NO) free radical.*
Niacinamide helps rejuvenate pancreatic function by enhancing beta cell health. These are the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. Niacinamide may have beneficial effects on helping to achieve better glycemic control.*
Niacinamide is an inexpensive nutrient that is both safe and effective with a multitude of uses in optimizing physiology.*