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| − | '''Niacin''', (which is also known as nicotinic acid or [[vitamin]] B3), is a [[water]]-soluble vitamin. Nicotinamide is the metabolite of niacin and used by the body to form the coenzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). None of the forms are related to the [[nicotine]] found in [[tobacco]], although their names are similar.
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| − | Living organisms derive a great portion of their [[energy]] from oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions, transferring [[electrons]]. About 200 [[enzyme]]s require the niacin coenzymes, NAD and NADP, to accept or donate electrons in redox reactions.
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| − | NAD functions most often in energy producing reactions involving the catabolism of [[carbohydrate]]s, [[fat]]s, [[protein]]s, and [[alcohol]].
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| − | NADP functions more often in anabolic reactions, such as in the synthesis of all macromolecules, including fatty acids and [[cholesterol]].
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| − | Recommended Dietary Allowance ([[RDA]]) for Niacin varies with age and sex. Generally, all infants regardless of sex and under the age of 6 months require a daily intake of niacin of 2mg (milligrams); from 6 months to 1 year 4mg daily. 1-3 years, 6mg;
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| − | 4-8 8mg; 9-13 12mg; 14 and older males 16mg, females 14mg unless pregnant or breastfeeding which raises the requirement to 18mg.
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| − | [[Category:Food and Drink]]
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