Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Test

This blood test is used to determine Vitamin B3 (Niacin) deficiencies.

Like all B vitamins, niacin (vitamin B3, also known as nicotinic acid) plays a role in converting carbohydrates into glucose, metabolizing fats and proteins, and keeping the nervous system working properly. Niacin also helps the body make sex-related and stress-related hormones and improves circulation and cholesterol levels.

Your liver can convert tryptophan, an amino acid from high-protein foods like meats and milk, into niacin.

Symptoms of mild niacin/vitamin B3 deficiency include:

• Indigestion
• Fatigue
• Canker sores
• Vomiting
• Depression

Serious deficiency of vitamin B3 is called pellegra and can result in death. Pellegra includes more serious symptoms like:

• Thick, scaly pigmented rash on skin exposed to sunlight
• Swollen mouth and bright red tongue
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Headaches
• Apathy and/or depression
• Fatigue
• Disorientation
• Memory loss

Good sources of niacin include:

• Red meat
• Fish
• Poultry
• Fortified breads and cereals
• Enriched pasta
• Peanuts