Vitamin B3. Computer model of a molecule of the water-soluble vitamin B3 (niacinamide or nicotinamide,C6.H6.N2.O). The atoms (solid tubes) of this organic molecule are colour-coded: carbon (yellow),hydrogen (grey),oxygen (red) and nitrogen (blue). Sources of niacin include cheese,milk,meat,poultry,fish,eggs and whole grains. Required to maintain normal digestive function,it also helps to reduce cholesterol levels. A lack of niacinamide can lead to pellagra,with symptoms of depression and dermatitis. Small amounts of vitamins are an essential part of a healthy diet,providing enzyme cofactors for the varied biochemistry of body metabolism |