What is the difference between Niacin and Niacinamide?
Vitamin B3 essentially comes in two forms: Niacin or nicotinic acid and Niacinamide and both possess the same vitamin activity in the body. Some people prefer to take Niacinamide because Niacin can cause flushing, itching, burning, and tingling sensations whereas Niacinamide does not. However, Niacin rather than Niacinamide, is recommended for circulatory problems and it has greater cholesterol and triglyceride lowering properties. Why does Vitamin B3 cause an unpleasant redness and flushing sometimes? This sensation is often called the Niacin flush and it is not considered dangerous. The vasodilating properties of Niacin are responsible for this flush. It usually passes after 15 minutes and can be avoided if one takes Niacinamide instead of Niacin. Sometimes taking Niacin after a meal will prevent this flush. What factors affect absorption? A B-complex should be taken with any single B vitamin. Other vitamins that make B3 more effective are Vitamins B1, B2 and C. Alcohol, antibiotics,
