Niacin (Vitamin B3) is an essential water-soluble vitamin involved in cellular energy production, nervous system function, brain metabolism, and healthy cholesterol regulation. It serves as a precursor for NAD+ and NADP+, two molecules required for hundreds of metabolic reactions throughout the body.

Niacin is commonly used in integrative medicine to support cardiovascular health, brain function, mitochondrial activity, and healthy lipid metabolism.

Potential Benefits

• Supports healthy cholesterol balance
• May help increase HDL ("good") cholesterol
• Supports brain and nervous system function
• Promotes cellular energy production
• Supports cognitive performance and mental clarity
• Helps maintain healthy circulation
• Supports mitochondrial function
• Contributes to healthy metabolism
• Supports overall cardiovascular health

How It Works

• Serves as a precursor for NAD+ and NADP+
• Supports cellular energy production
• Helps regulate lipid and cholesterol metabolism
• Supports healthy blood flow and circulation
• Promotes normal nervous system and brain function

Why It Is Helpful in AN Protocol

For autistic children and adults, as well as individuals with PANS/PANDAS and neuroimmune disorders:

• Supports brain energy metabolism
• Helps maintain healthy cognitive function
• Supports mitochondrial activity and cellular energy production
• May contribute to improved attention and mental performance
• Supports healthy lipid metabolism during long-term treatment programs
• Promotes overall neurological and metabolic health

Key Mechanism

Niacin supports health primarily through:

• NAD+ production
• Cellular energy metabolism
• Lipid regulation
• Brain and nervous system support
• Mitochondrial function

Suggested Use

Typical dose: 500 mg daily or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Important

• Niacin may cause temporary flushing, warmth, redness, or tingling of the skin.
• Taking niacin with food may improve tolerability.
• Liver function should be monitored during long-term use of higher doses.
• Different forms of Vitamin B3 (Niacin, Niacinamide, Nicotinamide Riboside) have different biological effects.