Recent research published in Nature Medicine reveals a potential link between high vitamin B3 (niacin) intake and heightened inflammation in the arteries, posing a risk of myocardial infarction or stroke. The study, conducted with over 1,100 participants, identified two molecules, 2PY and 4PY, produced when the body breaks down excess niacin.
Vitamin B3, a vital water-soluble B-complex vitamin, is essential for various bodily functions, existing in forms such as nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. These forms are converted into coenzymes critical for cellular metabolism, energy production, and DNA repair.
While niacin is naturally abundant in foods like meat, poultry, fish, nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals, deficiency can lead to pellagra, historically common in populations relying heavily on niacin-deficient diets, such as corn-based diets.
Supplementation with niacin has been used to treat hyperlipidemia, effectively lowering LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol. However, high doses (1,500–2,000 mg/day) may induce adverse effects like flushing, itching, and liver toxicity.
The study’s findings suggest that niacin may pose a newer risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, shedding light on the paradoxical nature of niacin’s effects. Lead researcher Dr. Stanley Hazen from Cleveland Clinic notes, “Despite niacin lowering cholesterol, the clinical benefits have always been less than anticipated… We believe our findings help explain this paradox.” Further research is needed to delineate the implications of excessive niacin intake on cardiovascular health.
