Which Vitamin is also known as Niacin?

Niacin is a term that refers specifically to Vitamin B3, which is essential for various metabolic processes in the body. This vitamin plays a crucial role in the conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy, as it is a precursor for the coenzymes NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) and NADP (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate). These coenzymes are vital for numerous biochemical reactions, including those involved in the Krebs cycle and cellular respiration, making niacin important for maintaining energy levels and overall metabolic health.

Additionally, niacin has a role in DNA repair and the production of hormones in the adrenal glands. Deficiency of niacin can lead to conditions such as pellagra, characterized by symptoms including dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. This significance in both energy metabolism and overall physical health underscores why niacin, or Vitamin B3, is recognized as an important nutrient within the B-vitamin complex.