Niacin is an important vitamin that your body requires for many functions. The B vitamin helps your body utilize carbohydrates‚ proteins‚ and fats; aids in the production of sex- and stress-related hormones; is vital to nervous system functioning; and is necessary for healthy skin‚ hair‚ eyes‚ liver‚ and circulation.

Taking niacin supplements can cause a harmless symptom called niacin flush‚ in which you experience a slight tingling sensation and redness in your skin that lasts for about 10 minutes. Don’t take more than 1.5 grams of niacin a day‚ unless that higher amount is recommended by your health care provider.