Properties and benefits
Nicotinic acid primarily acts as a preventive substance that helps fight the possible risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. With its help, cholesterol levels in the blood and tissues are regulated. At the same time, malignant cholesterol is initially destroyed. It can clog blood vessels, making them obstructed. This is very dangerous for the athlete’s health, since during intense training the heart may not be able to withstand the load.
After destroying “bad” cholesterol, nicotinic acid begins to regulate regular cholesterol. It should always be present in the body at a certain concentration, but if it increases, a person may suffer from obesity.
Nicotinic acid helps break down harmful lipoproteins . In many athletes, blood pressure rises precisely because of the high content of lipoproteins in the blood. These substances can also cause blood thrombosis.
General characteristics in the video:
The role of vitamin PP in the human body
Vitamin PP is needed by the human body because it is part of very important enzymes, namely nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide diphosphate (NADP). Thanks to these enzymes, the respiration of cells and tissues, the process of oxygen-free oxidation and the exchange of all other nutrients in the body occur.
The main functions of vitamin PP are:
- converting food into energy;
- production of hydrochloric acid for the digestive system;
- repairing chemical damage and breaks in DNA;
- formation of various hormones;
- normalization of glycemic regulatory function of the liver.
Indications for use
Due to the fact that nicotinic acid effectively fights malignant cholesterol and lipoproteins, it is often prescribed to people who have had or will have problems with the cardiovascular system. Moreover, nicotinic acid has shown good results in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, so it should be taken by people suffering from these diseases.
But this does not mean that nicotinic acid will be effective only in the fight against serious diseases. It can also contribute to a slight reduction in body weight by burning all the unhealthy fats.
Weightlifters should definitely take niacin as an additional supplement. The fact is that it will help protect bones from developing arthritis. Many professional athletes in their old age begin to suffer greatly from this disease, so you need to think about protecting yourself from it in advance.
Nicotinic acid can be prescribed together with other medications as a complex therapy to help heal injured joints and ligaments.
It is also used for hair growth:
And for weight loss:
Nicotinic acid in the beauty industry
Vitamin B3/PP is regularly used in cosmetology. With the help of drugs you can improve your health, improve your facial skin and hair condition. We suggest considering the popular uses of niacin.
For face
Nicotinic acid is the main element in the nutritional and regenerative process of cells. In addition to its beneficial effect on the functionality of organs, niacin becomes a reliable assistant in the fight for the beauty and health of the skin, which is why it is often used for rejuvenation.
If there is insufficient amount of the substance in the body, the first signs often appear on the skin: red spots, itching, decreased elasticity.
Rated world companies use a 4% solution of nicotinic acid in facial skin care cosmetics. The vitamin is freely available in every pharmacy, so you can add it to your favorite creams yourself.
Positive effects of nicotinic acid on facial skin:
- dilates blood vessels;
- improves blood circulation;
- removes excess fluid from tissues;
- has an anti-inflammatory effect;
- retains moisture necessary for tissues;
- promotes regeneration;
- cleanses the skin and improves its color.
In clinical settings, scientists have discovered another useful property - nicotinic acid reduces the likelihood of skin cancer.
Face mask recipe
An ampoule of nicotinic acid is added to the usual lotion and cream (1 ampoule per 50 g of facial product). The vitamin product is applied as a standard cream and, if necessary, washed off with warm water. It is advisable to mix the drug in a separate small container, since prolonged use of the substance leads to an overdose.
For hair growth
Nicotinic acid is considered a reliable remedy for accelerating hair growth. A small contact of the substance with the skin can provoke an allergic reaction. The allergy in the form of redness will disappear within 20 minutes, leaving no traces. Use the drug on your own with caution.
Sometimes people are skeptical about the properties of nicotinic acid because of the repulsive name. The substance is not associated with smokers; nicotine and nicotinic acid are not the same thing.
Niacin, due to its availability, has become widespread for home use. Women prepare healing masks, shampoos and scrubs based on it. A couple of drops of nicotinic acid are added to your favorite shampoo and your hair is nourished with vitamins during each wash.
The drug has a positive effect on the scalp as it strengthens blood vessels. Nicotinamide instantly penetrates the inner layer of the epidermis, from where it reaches the bulb of each hair. Changes in hair condition can be observed after just five treatments. Folk remedies, despite their effectiveness, at first dry out the hair or enrich it with an unpleasant odor. When hair falls out, a person is ready to endure all the consequences; with “nicotine” you don’t have to worry about such negative accompanying factors.
Vitamin PP is involved in the oxidative processes of the body, so hair has a complex effect. Hair follicles are nourished with vitamins and saturated with oxygen. The main advantage of hair care with nicotinic acid is considered to be hydration along the length and the disappearance of dandruff.
If you are wary of supplements not provided by the manufacturer, take niacin tablets. Thus, you influence hair growth and strengthen the condition of the body.
To get the desired result, it is recommended to undergo a comprehensive course of effects on hair: add niacin in liquid form to shampoo and take the vitamin orally in capsules.
Nicotinic acid is considered a popular drug for hair loss and baldness. Rapid loss of hair is the main signal of problems in the body, so first of all, get examined by a doctor, and under no circumstances start treatment without a prescription.
To stop hair loss, nicotinic acid is rubbed into the scalp onto dry hair. Additional ingredients that the vitamin formula is combined with can improve the effect of the drug:
- decoction of medicinal herbs;
- propolis tincture;
- ginger;
- vitamin E.
The compatibility of the drugs helps to achieve quick results in a short time. The course of treatment lasts for one month, only after consultation with a trichologist. The composition of the product for one rubbing uses only one ampoule of nicotinic acid. The vitamin is applied from the side of the temporal region, using massage movements towards the crown. Before the procedure, draw the liquid into a syringe or pipette, this makes it more convenient to apply the vitamin in even portions to the scalp.
Acid in ampoules must be used immediately after opening, otherwise, when exposed to air, it loses its beneficial properties and becomes unsuitable for further use.
Carefully monitor the body’s reaction to vitamin PP in its pure form; if after the procedure the skin turns red or itches, take an anti-allergenic drug and then dilute the acid with purified water or do not use it at all.
Recipes for hair masks based on nicotinic acid (analogues of expensive cosmetic products):
Egg mask
To make it you will need:
- 1 ampoule of niacin;
- 1 capsule of vitamin E;
- linseed oil – 40 g;
- Eleutherococcus tincture – 20 g.
Directions for use: mix the ingredients and apply to washed, dried hair. After an hour, rinse off the mask and wash your hair under running water.
Mask with aloe and propolis to strengthen hair:
- 40 g nicotinic acid;
- 40 ml aloe juice;
- 40 ml propolis tincture.
Apply the mixture to your hair and rinse after 40 minutes.
After using nicotine-based masks, you will feel as if your scalp is “burning.” This indicates improved blood flow to the hair follicles. When your head itches, this is also a sign of activation of processes. After a 30-day course, a break of at least 4 months is required.
The mechanism of action of niacin allows the vitamin to be used for eyebrows and eyelashes. You can simply dissolve nicotinic acid in ampoules with water and wipe your eyebrows with this liquid in the morning and before bed. An effective remedy for improving the growth of eyelashes and eyebrows is a special mask. To make it you will need:
- castor oil (1 ml);
- burdock oil (1 ml);
- vitamin Aevit (2 capsules);
- nicotinic acid (a couple of drops).
Mix all ingredients and apply overnight to eyebrows and eyelashes. The results will not be long in coming; be careful with the body’s reaction to individual components.
B3 will be useful for men. It is used for beard growth and baldness. Recently, beards and mustaches have become a trend in men's fashion, so men should take care of the subject of their pride. It is better to apply gentle versions of masks to your face so as not to damage sensitive skin. For baldness, vitamin liquid is rubbed into problem areas with massage movements.
Nicotinic acid in the fight against excess weight
Vitamin B3/PP is an important element of metabolism, since nicotinic acid is able to regulate the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates entering the body with food. The burning of calories and a person's weight directly depend on metabolism.
Nicotinamide is predominantly found in protein foods. Another type of vitamin, coenzyme, speeds up metabolism, reducing the effects of bad cholesterol in the body. There is a cleansing of toxins and impurities.
Nicotinic acid, in addition to the listed benefits, plays an important role in the formation of hormonal levels. The substance has detoxifying properties, so it is recommended to include it in the treatment regimen after poisoning or excessive alcohol consumption. The vitamin will be useful for blood vessels and their functionality.
Nicotinic acid has been scientifically proven to help with weight loss. Vitamin PP provokes the body's production of a special substance, serotonin. What is it for? The hormone is responsible for a good mood. Women admit that during times of stress or depression they consume excessive amounts of food, in particular confectionery.
Vitamins should be taken in small doses, gradually increasing the dose by 0.1 g: for the first five days, drink nicotinic acid 0.1 g three times a day, from the sixth to 0.2 g, etc. The daily norm ultimately does not exceed 6 g per day. You should take the vitamin immediately after meals, and never drink it with hot drinks (tea, coffee).
Nicotinic acid displaces vitamin C from the body, so you should additionally drink ascorbic acid in the form of vitamins. How long you need to take the vitamin complex depends on the condition of the body and symptoms.
Niacin is an affordable anti-cellulite remedy. There is a lot of information on the Internet about how to take it. To some extent, the recommendations have a basis for existence, since the substance improves blood circulation. Due to contraindications in the instructions for vitamin B3, it is better to avoid using it unnecessarily. Other methods will help you get rid of cellulite at home: cupping massage, body wraps, contrast showers.
Carefully monitor the dosage of vitamin PP to avoid excess intake of the substance. Before drinking nicotinic acid, consult your doctor and carefully read the instructions for use, pay attention to contraindications.
Instructions for use
The daily requirement for this substance depends on the number of calories that the athlete receives through food. There should be 6.6 mg of nicotinic acid per 1000 kcal. In the presence of certain diseases, such as diabetes, the dosage of acid may be increased. On average, women need to get 14 mg of niacin, and men – 16 mg.
But how to take nicotinic acid in tablet form? What is the dosage? Usually prescribed from 0.02 to 1 g at a time . You need to drink 3 of these tablets per day immediately after meals.
Content of vitamin B3/PP in food products
Most people don't even know what foods contain niacin. Advantage in the amount of vitamin PP in products of animal origin:
- lean pork;
- liver;
- chicken breast;
- low-fat fish;
- kidneys;
- chicken eggs;
- dairy products.
It is also possible to obtain the vitamin from plant foods:
- tomatoes;
- potato;
- carrot;
- peanut;
- yeast, etc.
Medicinal plants are rich in vitamin PP, most of all:
- alfalfa;
- sage;
- sorrel;
- rose hip;
- burdock root;
- eyebright;
- dandelion, etc.
Niacin is present in all food groups, but its level of absorption varies. What is the difference? Vitamins from legumes are easily absorbed by the body, but vitamins from grains are difficult to absorb. The synthesis of nicotinic acid occurs exclusively in the presence of the amino acid tryptophan, which is replenished in the body when consuming proteins of animal origin.
Research has proven that the quantitative determination of vitamin PP in food products is determined by chemical, spectrophotometric and microbiological methods.
Contraindications
Nicotinic acid is contraindicated for those people who have individual sensitivity to this substance. You should also not take vitamin complexes if:
- atherosclerosis;
- hypertension;
- stomach ulcer in the acute stage;
- gout;
- hepatitis;
- liver cirrhosis;
- diabetes mellitus
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You can watch the correct leg press technique in the simulator on video here - /silovye/yagoditsy/zhim-nogami-v-trenazhere-pod-uglom.html.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, you should consult a specialist about the advisability of using such supplements.
Vitamins essential for men's health
To improve potency and overall health, men need a whole complex of vitamins:
- vitamin A (beta-carotene, retinol, retinoic acid);
- B vitamins, which have a stimulating effect on the central and peripheral nervous systems, including increasing sensitivity and libido;
- B1 (thiamine);
- vitamin B3 (vitamin PP, nicotinic acid or niacin);
- vitamin B6 (pyridoxine or pyridoxole);
- vitamin B9 (folic acid).
- vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid).
- vitamin D (calciferol group).
- vitamin E (tocopherol).
Consequences
If nicotinic acid enters the body in normal quantities, then the athlete will soon notice improvements in metabolism. This will affect his physical fitness, as the amount of subcutaneous fat will begin to decrease.
In addition, the concentration of malignant and normal cholesterol in the blood and tissues will significantly decrease. This will greatly reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity.
However, it is important to remember that niacin should be taken with caution, otherwise it will cause side effects. With long-term use, liver dystrophy, a decrease in the body's tolerance to glucose, and a feeling of constant heat are possible. Some people experience constant headaches and dizziness.
An overdose of nicotinic acid causes a side effect in which the blood begins to rush to the face, turning it pink. Arrhythmia is observed, itching, nausea and vomiting appear. Due to possible serious consequences, you should read the instructions before taking dietary supplements.
Symptoms of deficiency, overdose
A lack of vitamin PP in the body manifests itself in the form of general weakness and changes in emotional state. In addition, some external manifestations are noted:
- in the oral cavity - a burning sensation, swelling and roughness of the tongue, small ulcers on the surface of the mucous membrane, gums, swelling of the lips;
- on the skin - dryness and roughness, the appearance of an itchy rash in the form of blisters on reddened areas of the body exposed to sunlight;
- hair loss - mostly on the head;
- lethargy and fatigue when performing non-physical forms of labor, lack of concentration;
- loss of appetite and weight loss;
- digestive disorders, expressed in frequent bouts of diarrhea.
With an overdose of niacin, patients complain of a feeling of a rush of blood to certain parts of the body, which is accompanied by burning, itching, heat and redness. Other symptoms include:
- vomiting, diarrhea and other digestive system disorders;
- fatty liver;
- hypotension;
- signs of diabetes;
- anorexia.
What products or preparations contain
Nicotinic acid is found in liver, meat, fish, poultry, nuts and beans . It can also be obtained from bread and wholemeal cereals. But in case of serious deficiency of this substance, it is necessary to take special biological supplements. They will help quickly replenish the lack of niacin, allowing athletes to quickly return to their usual training regimen.
Nicotinic acid is sold in all pharmacies. It can be produced in the form of various nutritional supplements, vitamin complexes and even injection solutions. Most often, athletes use vitamin complexes Opti-Men from Optimum Nutrition and Opti-Women from the same manufacturer. They contain over 75 beneficial ingredients, so athletes don't need to take anything extra. The complex also contains nicotinic acid.
If an athlete lacks nicotinic acid, he can use Niacin from NOW. Each capsule of the drug contains 500 mg of nicotinic acid.
Reviews of those losing weight
Larisa, 32 years old, Murmansk: “My struggle with extra pounds was difficult and ineffective until I started taking acid tablets. Before this, neither diet nor exercise gave the desired result. Since I started taking the vitamin, the excess weight began to melt before my eyes; in a week I lost more than 4 kg. The main thing is not only to take pills, but also to exercise and eat right.”
Alena, 26 years old, Arkhangelsk: “In the postpartum period, I gained a lot of weight, but was able to get rid of it only with the help of nicotine. This despite the fact that I didn’t follow any diet, I just tried to eat right. The vitamin eliminated my pathological cravings for bread, rolls and sweets. I took it in tablets. In 2 weeks I lost 8 kg, my health improved, my mood lifted, and I began to look much better in appearance.”
Christina, 34 years old, Orel: “I lost weight rapidly on nicotinic acid. I decided to further increase the effectiveness and began taking a double dose. A few days later this led to intestinal disorders; I had to consult a doctor, who adjusted the dose. Vitamin PP helps you lose weight quite quickly and effectively, but exceeding the dosage of the drug is extremely dangerous and risky.”