Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
For the body system: Hepatic System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, has strong scientific evidence supporting its use in supporting the hepatic (liver) system. Niacin is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in cellular metabolism as a component of the coenzymes NAD and NADP, which are necessary for many oxidation-reduction reactions in the liver. Therapeutically, niacin has been used for decades in the management of dyslipidemia, as it significantly lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL cholesterol. However, its hepatic effects extend beyond lipid modification.

Niacin is metabolized in the liver, and high doses can cause hepatotoxicity, which has been well-documented in medical literature. Despite this risk, the vitamin’s role in supporting liver function is primarily through its impact on lipid metabolism and, potentially, its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that niacin can reduce hepatic fat accumulation and improve liver enzyme profiles in some patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Niacin’s ability to decrease hepatic synthesis of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and subsequent triglyceride levels is also well established. That said, its use must be carefully monitored due to its dose-dependent risk of hepatotoxicity.

Overall, niacin is scientifically validated as an agent that affects liver function, primarily in the context of lipid metabolism. Its use for direct “support” of the hepatic system should be balanced against potential liver toxicity, especially at pharmacological doses.

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