Beer And Niacinamide: A Safe Mix?

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that helps regulate metabolism and maintain neurotransmitter balance. It is found in many foods, including meat, fish, milk, eggs, green vegetables, and cereals. While niacin is safe for most people when used appropriately, consuming it with alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, dizziness, itching, and vomiting. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol when taking niacin supplements. Additionally, alcohol can deplete niacin levels in the body, leading to a deficiency that can cause symptoms such as dermatitis, dementia, and diarrhea. In severe cases, niacin deficiency can result in a condition called pellagra, which can be fatal if left untreated.

Niacinamide and nicotinic acid are the two forms of vitamin B3

Niacinamide does not have the same pharmacological, lipid-modifying effects or side effects as niacin. Niacinamide does not reduce cholesterol or cause flushing, unlike niacin. Niacinamide is recommended as a treatment for niacin deficiency because it can be administered in remedial amounts without causing the flushing, considered an adverse effect.

Niacinamide is converted into the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+). Niacin is the precursor for these coenzymes. These compounds are coenzymes for many dehydrogenases, participating in many hydrogen transfer processes. NAD is important in the catabolism of fat, carbohydrate, protein, and alcohol, as well as cell signalling and DNA repair, while NADP is mostly involved in anabolism reactions such as fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis.

Niacinamide is used to treat niacin deficiency because it does not cause the flushing adverse reaction seen with niacin. However, nicotinamide may be toxic to the liver at doses exceeding 3 g/day for adults.

Niacinamide is preferred for treating pellagra

Niacinamide is recommended for treating pellagra because it does not cause the same side effects as niacin, such as facial flushing, itching, dizziness, and nausea. It is also effective in reversing the clinical manifestations of pellagra. Oral therapy with niacinamide can help improve symptoms such as skin lesions, glossitis, stomatitis, and diarrhoea. Niacinamide supplementation can also prevent pellagra in individuals taking medications that interfere with niacin absorption, such as isoniazid and ethionamide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a dose of at least 300 mg of niacinamide per day, divided into multiple doses, for the treatment of pellagra. This dose has been shown to be safe and effective in improving the symptoms of pellagra.

In addition to niacinamide supplementation, it is important to address dietary factors that may contribute to pellagra. A diet rich in protein and niacin is recommended. Foods such as meat, milk, eggs, peanuts, leafy green vegetables, whole or enriched grains, and brewer's dry yeast can help enhance niacin intake. Ensuring adequate nutrition and addressing any underlying conditions that may cause malabsorption are crucial for the treatment and prevention of pellagra.

While niacinamide is preferred for treating pellagra due to its favourable side effect profile, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation. They can provide personalised advice and determine the most appropriate treatment approach for pellagra.

Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory effects on the skin

Drinking beer and taking niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3) is not advisable. Alcohol can increase some of the side effects of niacinamide, causing nausea, dizziness, itching, vomiting, an upset stomach, and flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingly feeling under your skin).

Niacinamide has gained popularity for its ability to improve skin health and treat skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it helpful for treating skin inflammation and managing related symptoms, such as redness and red patches.

Niacinamide's Anti-Inflammatory Effects on the Skin

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, which is an essential nutrient that supports many cellular processes and provides health benefits to the skin, kidneys, heart, nerves, gut, brain, and other body organs.

Builds Skin Immunity

The components of niacinamide are restorative. They help restore the cellular energy of the skin's cells and repair damaged DNA. Niacinamide also reduces the immunosuppressive effects of UV rays, fighting off external and internal stressors that contribute to skin degeneration and premature aging.

Treats Skin Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of niacinamide make it an ideal treatment for skin inflammation. It works by blocking immune system chemicals that promote inflammation. It is used to treat skin conditions involving inflammation, like eczema, inflammatory acne, and contact dermatitis.

Minimizes Redness and Blotchiness

Niacinamide reduces inflammation, which may help ease redness from eczema, acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help treat skin inflammation and manage related symptoms, resulting in stronger skin that preserves hydration for improved skin health.

Minimizes Pore Appearance

By helping the skin retain moisture, niacinamide keeps the skin smooth and moisturized, which can naturally reduce pore size over time.

Regulates Oil Production

Niacinamide can help regulate the amount of oil the sebaceous glands produce and prevent them from going into overdrive. This benefit is not just for those with dry skin types, as regulating oil production can also be beneficial for those with oily skin.

Protects Against Sun Damage

Niacinamide can rebuild healthy skin cells while also protecting them from damage caused by ultraviolet rays. It helps prevent the transfer of pigment within the skin, resulting in fewer brown spots.

Treats Hyperpigmentation

Research has found that niacinamide concentrations of around 4-5% can be helpful in lightening dark spots and treating hyperpigmentation.

Reduces Signs of Aging

Niacinamide can help with fine lines, pigmentation, and wrinkles. Studies have shown significant improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

May Protect from Skin Cancer

A 2015 study showed that niacinamide may help prevent skin cancer. The study observed a 23% reduction in cancer cases among participants who had a history of nonmelanoma skin cancers and took niacinamide twice daily for 12 months.

Treats Acne

Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. It inhibits the production of oil, which is beneficial for people dealing with acne. It is also non-irritating compared to most other acne treatments, making it an attractive option for people with sensitive or dry skin.

Niacinamide plays a crucial role in keeping the skin healthy, and its anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular additive in the cosmetic and skincare industry. It can be applied topically or taken orally as a supplement to experience its benefits.

Niacinamide may protect against melanoma

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. It is a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), which is essential for many physiological reactions that help cells obtain energy. It is found in dietary sources such as meat, fish, nuts, grains, and mushrooms.

Niacinamide has been shown to have a range of benefits, particularly for the skin. For example, it can replenish cellular energy, enhance DNA repair, act as an anti-inflammatory, and modulate some of the local immunosuppression caused by ultraviolet radiation.

One study found that niacinamide reduced melanoma cell number by up to 90% and induced a significant increase in cell death. It also delayed tumour growth in vivo and improved the survival of melanoma-bearing mice.

Another study, the ONTRAC trial, found that the rate of new non-melanoma skin cancer was 23% lower in the group taking nicotinamide compared to the placebo group.

Based on the scientific literature, it is reasonable to recommend niacinamide for people at high risk of skin cancer. However, it is important to note that it is only one of the pillars of sun safety, and other measures such as using sunscreen and sun-smart clothing are still crucial.

Niacinamide may help decrease phosphate levels in people with kidney dysfunction

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body and must be consumed daily. It is found in animal-based products such as meat and poultry, as well as plant-based foods like nuts, seeds, and green vegetables. It can also be formed in the body from dietary niacin.

Niacinamide plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and cell health, and is particularly important for people with kidney dysfunction. People with chronic kidney disease often experience a buildup of phosphate in their blood, which can lead to serious health complications. Niacinamide has been found to decrease phosphate levels in these individuals by blocking its absorption in the intestines. This makes it a promising treatment option for managing hyperphosphatemia, or high blood levels of phosphate, in people with kidney dysfunction.

Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of niacinamide in reducing phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. For example, in a study by Takahashi et al., patients with end-stage renal disease who were treated with niacinamide experienced a decrease in serum phosphate concentrations. Another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial by Cheng et al. showed that niacinamide reduced phosphate levels in hemodialysis patients when used in addition to phosphate binders.

While niacinamide has shown promising results in reducing phosphate levels in people with kidney dysfunction, more research is needed to fully understand its safety and efficacy. Larger studies with longer follow-up periods are required to determine the optimal dosage and potential side effects of niacinamide in this specific population.

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