Do I Have Niacin Deficiency?

Do you have thick, scaly pigmented rash on your arms and hands (like gloves)?

Do you have dark red rash on your feet and calves (like boots)?

Do you have a rash around your neck (like a necklace)?

Do you have a butterfly shaped rash on your face?

Do you have swollen mouth and bright red tongue?

Do you have sores on your mouth and tongue?

Do you have nausea and vomiting?

Do you have abdominal discomfort, constipation or diarrhea?

Do you have blood in your stool?

Do you have a headache?

Do you have apathy or depression?

Do you feel fatigue?

Do you feel disorientated?

Do you feel overexcited or extremely elated (manic)?

Do you have memory problems or a memory loss?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a niacin deficiency. Niacin is also known as vitamin B3.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a niacin deficiency. Niacin or vitamin B3 plays an important role in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, and is essential for the normal functioning of almost every cell in your body. Niacin deficiency occurs in people who have a low dietary intake of niacin. People who have inadequate absorption of niacin or tryptophan (amino acid, precursor of niacin) will also develop niacin deficiency. Your liver can synthesize niacin using tryptophan from food high in protein, such as meat and milk. Diagnosing niacin deficiency is based on your medical history, physical examination and urine tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a niacin deficiency. Niacin belongs in the group of B vitamins and it is also called vitamin B3. People with niacin deficiency often have deficiencies of vitamin B2 and B6 as well. The most severe form of niacin deficiency is called pellagra. Pellagra develops only in people who have diet low in both niacin and tryptophan. It is rare in developed countries, but there are still outbreaks in Africa, India and China. Pellagra symptoms include skin lesions, digestive and nervous system problems. Treatment involves niacin supplements and balanced diet.