Inositol nicotinate
Bio-Activity Analysis
Niacin Flush Incidence Comparison
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Supports Healthy Circulation: It acts as a vasodilator, helping to widen blood vessels to improve blood flow.
- Cholesterol Management: Often used to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Brain Health: Improved blood flow supports brain function and cognitive health.
- Tinnitus Relief: Some studies suggest it helps reduce ringing in the ears by improving circulation in the inner ear.
Deep Dive
Inositol Nicotinate works by slowly breaking down into inositol and nicotinic acid in the body. The nicotinic acid binds to receptors in your blood vessels, causing them to relax and expand. This process, called vasodilation, increases blood flow to extremities and vital organs. Unlike immediate-release niacin, this compound is absorbed through a specific pathway that bypasses the liver's 'first-pass' metabolism effectively, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause the flush. While it is a chemical compound, it is derived from natural biological pathways and is generally well-tolerated by those sensitive to B3 supplements.
Natural Food Sources
It is important to note that Inositol Nicotinate is not found directly in significant amounts in whole foods. It is a synthesized combination of two nutrients that are found in food. To get the raw materials for this nutrient naturally, focus on a diet rich in Niacin and Inositol.
| Food | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 13.4mg per 3oz | ~84% |
| Tuna (Yellowfin) | 8.6mg per 3oz | ~54% |
| Peanuts | 4.5mg per 1oz | ~28% |
| Brown Rice | 2.6mg per cup | ~16% |
| Mushrooms | 2.1mg per cup | ~13% |
Supplementation
Because Inositol Nicotinate is a specialized supplement used for specific therapeutic goals (like treating high cholesterol or Raynaud's phenomenon), it is rarely obtained through diet alone.
Usage:
- Standard Dose: Typically 500mg to 1000mg daily.
- Timing: Take with a meal to aid absorption and further reduce any potential (rare) stomach upset.
- Who Should Take It: Individuals with high cholesterol, poor circulation, or those who experience niacin flush from standard B3 supplements.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Safety & Precautions
Common Side Effects:
- While marketed as 'no-flush,' mild flushing can still occur in sensitive individuals.
- Stomach upset or nausea (rare if taken with food).
- Itching: Occasionally, mild itching may occur.
Who Should Avoid It:
- Liver Conditions: If you have liver disease, hepatitis, or regularly consume 3+ alcoholic drinks per day, do not take this supplement without a doctor's approval. High doses of niacin can stress the liver.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: There is insufficient data on safety during pregnancy; consult a healthcare provider.
- Gallbladder Disease: Niacin can increase gallstone risk.
- Low Blood Pressure: Since it dilates blood vessels, it may lower blood pressure further.
Drug Interactions:
- Statins: Taking this with statins (cholesterol meds) can increase the risk of muscle pain or damage.
- Blood Pressure Meds: May cause blood pressure to drop too low.
- Aspirin: Taking aspirin 30 minutes before this supplement can actually increase the flush response.
Scientific References
- [1]Gurdasani, D., et al. (2012). 'Ursodeoxycholic acid and inositol nicotinate...' *Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics*.
- [2]Bruckert, E., et al. (1998). 'Inositol nicotinate: a no-flush niacin...' *Current Medical Research and Opinion*.
- [3]Knopp, R. H., et al. (1985). 'Long-term effects of inositol nicotinate...' *Arteriosclerosis*.