Does Niacin Deficiency Cause Depression?

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is one of 8 B-complex vitamins used by the human body. Much like the other B Vitamins, Niacin helps to convert fats, carbohydrates and protein into fuel for the body, and plays a role in skin, hair, eye and liver health. Niacin also supports proper nervous system function.

How Is Niacin Related to Depression?

Additionally, Niacin is responsible for helping the body make stress-related hormones in the adrenal glands and various other parts of the body. When Niacin (B3) levels are insufficient, the body is unable to produce these stress related hormones, which is thought to contribute to depression.

Symptoms and Causes of Niacin Deficiency

Severe Niacin deficiency is relatively uncommon in the developed world. Extreme deficiency can result in a condition called Pellagra, which is characterized by cracked skin, diarrhea and dementia. Mild deficiency, which is still somewhat rare in developed countries, often results in fatigue, vomiting and depression. In the US, alcoholism is thought to be the primary cause of Niacin deficiency, which may contribute to the link between alcoholism and depression. A very poor diet can also lead to deficiency, although this is far more common in third world countries.

Taking Niacin for Depression

Taking Niacin for depression is certainly effective if B3 deficiency is in fact the root cause. As with most deficiencies, taking a supplement that remedies the issues will greatly improve the problems associated with that deficiency.

However, for a complicated issue such as depression, there are a wide variety of possible causes. While Niacin and depression are related, so are various other vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B12 deficiency, for example, is strongly associated to fatigue and depression, as is vitamin D deficiency.

Given the large array of possible cause of depression, it's important to consider all of the possibilities. Perhaps Niacin deficiency is the problem, is which case supplementation should greatly improve the condition. Perhaps another vitamin or mineral deficiency is responsible. Perhaps the experienced depression isn't nutrition related.

Steps to Take

Begin by identifying some likely causes, address those, and see if the condition improves. Try a Niacin supplement and see if you see better. Make sure you're not deficient in B12 or vitamin D. Takes steps to improve your diet, making sure to get plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry and dairy products. Avoid junk food, excess sugar, hydrogenated vegetable oils and refined grains. See if the condition improves.

Finally, consult a medical professional if you are unable to remedy the problem yourself.