Niacin: 9 Research-Backed Benefits & One Side-Effect
Niacin belongs to the vitamin B family.
Niacin plays an important role in DNA repair and the production of steroid hormones. Niacin could also have a major impact on decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as the treatment of cancer.
Niacin has been used to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol when administered as a drug under medical guidance.
Side effects of consuming too much niacin can lead to insulin resistance and an increase of fasting glucose levels by approximately 5%.
Deficiency of niacin causes severe health problems, characterized by four “Ds”: depression, diarrhea, delirium, and dementia.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of niacin that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about niacin named What Is Niacin & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Niacin
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of niacin.
1. Cancer
Niacin - Cancer
About this claim
Cancer is when abnormal cells divide without control in your body, making you ill. Research shows that some nutrients can play a vital role in the treatment of various cancers, but also as one prevention method.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 53 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Cardiovascular Disease
Niacin - Cardiovascular Disease
About this claim
Cardiovascular disease is something to avoid if possible. There are nutrients that might have the ability to aid in the quest of keeping your cardiovascular system healthy.
Research sources for this claim
- Niacin - an overview ◳
- decreasing the risk
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Cell Health
Niacin - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Central Nervous System
Niacin - Central Nervous System
About this claim
The central nervous system, the brain, and the spinal cord control most functions of your body and mind. It’s crucial to keep it as healthy as can be for your overall health. Evidence through research shows that some nutrients may help you maintain a healthy central nervous system.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 17 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
5. Cholesterol
Niacin - Cholesterol
About this claim
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells. Research has shown that there are some nutrients that might be beneficial for your cholesterol in a variety of ways.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 27 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
6. Depression Or Depressive Disorders
Niacin - Depression Or Depressive Disorders
About this claim
Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. There is a close connection between nutrition and depression, according to research. Some nutrients have shown to possess some beneficial qualities for people feeling depressed.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
7. DNA Synthesis
Niacin - DNA Synthesis
About this claim
DNA is synthesized by all living things. There are nutrients that may be important in DNA replication and DNA integrity.
Research sources for this claim
- Niacin in the Central Nervous System: An Update of Biological Aspects and Clinical Applications ◳
- Niacin - an overview ◳
- repair DNA
You are welcome to explore 13 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
8. Hormones
Niacin - Hormones
About this claim
Keeping your hormones healthy is key to an overall good health. Research is telling us about key nutrients that can help us achieve healthy hormones in balance.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
9. Stomach And Intestine
Niacin - Stomach And Intestine
About this claim
Your stomach and intestines are where the nutrients from the food you consume get in your body. Research shows that some nutrients may be beneficial for your stomach and intestines. For instance, help keep your digestive system healthy.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Niacin
These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of niacin.
1. Blood Sugar
Niacin - Blood Sugar
About this claim
Blood sugar is the amount of glucose present in your blood. Every time you eat, your blood sugar fluctuates. Research is telling us that some foods and nutrients can affect your blood sugar negatively. They can spike your blood sugar, keeping your levels high. Over time, high blood sugar can lead to long-term, serious health problems.
Research sources for this claim
- Niacin - an overview ◳
- can cause insulin resistance
You are welcome to explore 25 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.