Niacin: what it does and which foods have it

What it does

The body converts niacin into NAD, a coenzyme that more than 400 enzymes need, more than for any other vitamin-derived coenzyme. (NIH)

Where you find it in food

Niacin is present in a wide variety of foods. (NIH)

Amounts are from the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements food table. "Servings to reach the daily value" is the daily value (16 mg) divided by the amount per serving.

How much you absorb

• In some grain products, niacin is bound in a form that makes it only about 30% bioavailable. (NIH)

Food, and where an IV fits

Food comes first. Most people get what they need from a varied diet, and a nutrient in food comes with fiber, protein and everything else the food carries.

An IV takes a different route. It delivers a nutrient straight into the bloodstream, so none of it depends on absorption in the gut. That can matter for people who absorb less, and your provider decides whether it is appropriate for you.

Niacin (B3) is part of the B-complex in Reset, Immunity, Performance, Longevity, Radiance and Rebuild. NAD+, which the body makes from niacin, is available as a separate add-in.

Who tends to run low

Only 1% of US adults have niacin intakes from food and drinks below the estimated average requirement. (NIH)

The NIH lists these groups among those more likely to fall short:

• People with undernutrition
• People low in riboflavin, vitamin B6 or iron

A lab panel ordered by your provider can show your own levels. See lab testing before IV therapy.