Niacin for performance

Marginal B3 insufficiency can erode athletic capacity

In the world of sports nutrition and performance physiology, few micronutrients are as underappreciated yet as essential as niacin. Also known as vitamin B3, niacin plays a foundational role in how the body produces and uses energy. As a water-soluble member of the B-vitamin family, it contributes to core metabolic pathways and cellular regeneration. In performance contexts, its value lies not in flashy claims but in its ability to power mitochondrial function, regulate redox balance, and enhance endurance recovery. This paper examines the biological function, deficiencies, toxicities, and performance implications of niacin, with a focus on scientific evidence and practical applications.

The role of niacin, deficiency, and excess

Niacin occurs in two biologically active forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. Both forms are precursors to the coenzymes NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADP+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), which are essential for a redox reactio…