Niacinamide & Your Brain (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is an incredibly important water-soluble vitamin that can play a role in many aspects of health, from supporting proper cognitive function to heart health and beyond.*

Niacinamide? How is that different from Niacin?

Before even discussing why Vitamin B3 is important for cognitive health, we need to address this next question, which is probably in your mind already: Why Niacinamide and not the more common Vitamin B3 form, Niacin? Both forms are similarly effective as a neuro-nutrient because both can be converted into each other in your body.*

The key advantage of Niacinamide over Niacin is that it doesn't cause 'Niacin flush,' a side effect often associated with high doses of Niacin. While relatively harmless, it can still be an uncomfortable effect that may cause skin flushing, itching, and headaches.*¹

Niacinamide may boost mood and support better sleep.*

Here's some science for you (if you loved biology in high school, you probably know some of these already). Vitamin B3 may play an important role in the production of NAD+, a coenzyme needed for cellular metabolism and energy production.² In fact, more than 400 enzymes are dependent on it for various reactions.* Impressive, isn't it?

NAD+ can facilitate the functioning of sirtuins, proteins crucial for maintaining cellular health. NAD+ also supports mitochondrial function, the powerhouse of cells.*

But Niacinamide serves other roles, too. A neuro-supportive role, for instance. It aids the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin (aptly termed the 'feel good' neurotransmitter).

Serotonin may support mood and sleep. Higher levels? Typically linked to more restful sleep and brighter moods.*³ 

A Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, focusing on 3,136 men and women ages 18-30 for up to 25 years, calculated dietary and supplemental B vitamin intake and cognitive function. According to this study, a higher intake of B vitamins (especially Vitamin B3) throughout young adulthood was linked with better cognitive function scores in midlife.*⁴

Furthermore, Niacinamide may double down as a potent antioxidant. It can help fight off harmful free radicals that may damage cellular integrity, defending your head-brain against oxidative stress damage.*⁵

But what happens when nature's gifts fall short?

Getting enough Vitamin B3 through foods is not really an uphill battle—not for most. Nature gifts it to us. Meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products teem with it.

(!) Now, some may still be at risk of developing a deficiency.*

One such group at risk includes those with limited access to varied or nutrient-rich foods due to socioeconomic circumstances. Poor nutrition can stem from low-income households or individuals living in 'food deserts'—areas where fresh, nutritious food is not readily available.*

As an example, according to USDA estimates, about 19 million people in the U.S. live in these so-called 'food deserts.' And they are among the most exposed ones as their diet may not contain enough Niacinamide-rich foods, leading to a deficiency.*⁶

Seniors are also prone to a higher risk of Vitamin B3 deficiency due to lower dietary intake, reduced nutrient absorption, and medication use.*

That's where a quality nootropic, like our HCF® advanced nootropics, can step in. Formulated to address not only potential nutrient deficiencies but also support and nourish all three brains (head, heart, and gut).*