Beat the Low Carb Blues; An Overview of the Niacin Implications

For many, low carbohydrate dieting is a serious consideration in the battle of the bulge. For those seeking to lose those extra pounds, weight loss programs are as varied as the people participating. As part of a weight loss program, the introduction of Niacin supplements, a B3 vitamin, into your daily nutrition program will improve rate of food digestion and speed the metabolism of carbohydrates. For those dieters on a low carbohydrate diet, the added benefit of the dietary supplement, Niacin, may negate the affects of the “sluggishness” or “blues” associated with the low carbohydrate diet while simultaneously working to improve metabolism and burn off calories.

So what is Niacin? As water soluble B vitamin, Niacin promotes the increased metabolism of food into energy. Found naturally in dairy, poultry and lean meats, Niacin can also be purchased in sustained release tablet form as a supplement to your standard or low carb diet. In combination with other B vitamins, Niacin works to release energy from ingested carbohydrates while adding the additional B vitamins the body requires on a daily basis. Additionally, within the bloodstream, Niacin works to decrease the level of cholesterol and fat in the bloodstream as well. This combination, mixed with a low carbohydrate diet, can lead to significant weight loss.

Dosing of Niacin is recommended in sustained release tablets at least two times a day with some physicians and nutritionists recommending three times daily. Initially, your physician or nutritionist may recommend a gradual intake of Niacin supplements beginning with one tablet daily working through to a three per day regimen. Dosing, in adults, is recommended at 14 to 18 mg per day. Although, some sustained release tablets are provided in levels as high as 250 mg per tablet; a 1250% level of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). While not toxic, most physicians and nutritionists will recommend Niacin supplements in levels much lower with a gradual increase to a 250mg tablet.

As with most vitamins and mineral supplements, moderation is the key. When considering the 250mg tablet, monitor for side effects which may include itching, diarrhea, headache, blurred vision and even heartburn. In most cases, however, side effects of Niacan, a B3 supplement, will dissipate as the body becomes accustomed to processing the added Niacin levels. In rare cases, increased heart rate and dizziness may occur. If symptoms are persistent or severe, consult your physician immediately.

In addition to improved digestion and metabolism, Niacin is also an excellent supplement to improve skin, nerves and is commonly treated to improve chronic disease and illness. By aiding the body in elimination of toxic substances, Niacin plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and has even been found in anti-aging products. By improving blood circulation, Niacin, a B3 supplement, may promote a more youthful appearance.

In the treatment of disease and illness, Niacin, in significant quantities, is known to improve conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis, side effects of cancer and cataracts. Before beginning a daily dose of Niacin, consult your physician as Niacin, in significant quantities, may contribute to complications if used concurrently with some antibiotics, aspirin, blood pressure medications, smoking cessation programs and cholesterol lowering drugs.

With the varied positive health implications, Niacin is a excellent B3 supplement to add to any dietary program especially for those working aggressively to lose weight and maintain a low carbohydrate diet. Additionally, Niacin aides in the removal of fat from the body and works to convert all ingested carbohydrates into energy more quickly. By doing so, energy levels are improved and conditions, such as diabetes, cancer side effects and cardiovascular disorders are improved. Niacin can be purchased over the counter or, in larger quantities, by prescription from your doctor.