Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, helps your body convert the food you eat into usable energy. It contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, the normal function of the nervous system, and the maintenance of normal skin – a lot of everyday groundwork for one nutrient.
Niacin is water-soluble, so your body doesn't store it and relies on a regular intake. Your body can also make a small amount itself from the amino acid tryptophan, but food is the main source – and niacin is found in a wide range of everyday foods, from meat, poultry and fish to nuts, seeds, legumes and fortified cereals. Most people get plenty from a balanced diet, though a supplement can help top up a limited one.
