1. a B vitamin that is essential for proper metabolism and is found in meat, fish, and grains
Usage: also called nicotinic acid or vitamin B3

Examples

• The doctor recommended taking niacin supplements to help lower cholesterol.
• Niacin deficiency can cause a disease called pellagra.
• Many breakfast cereals are fortified with niacin and other B vitamins.
• Fish, chicken, and peanuts are good natural sources of niacin.
• The nutritionist explained that niacin helps convert food into energy.
• Too much niacin can cause skin flushing and other side effects.