Niacin & Thyroid Disease

Niacin is another name for vitamin B3. When taken along with other vitamins, niacin can be effective in treating thyroid disease.

B-complex vitamins

• Niacin, along with thiamine, riboflavin and pantothenic acid, is a B-complex vitamin. These vitamins work with copper to keep your thyroid balance in check. Niacin is a key vitamin that is important for copper metabolism, which is necessary to stave off hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).

Antioxidant

• Niacin is also an antioxidant, which means it has the ability to neutralize free radicals and keep them from damaging your body. Niacin is an antioxidant that is essential for maintaining enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid disease itself can also cause an antioxidant deficiency.

Dosage

• According to "The Thyroid Solution: A Revolutionary Mind-Body Program for Regaining Your Emotional and Physical Health" by Dr. Ridha Arem, the optimal daily supplement level of niacin is 15 to 20 mg. This amount is beneficial while still avoiding a buildup.

Foods

• Some foods that are rich in niacin are sweet potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms and asparagus. Lentils and cabbage are also high in niacin.

Considerations

• Niacin must be taken in equal amounts as the other B-complex vitamins in order to be effective. Sometimes niacin can create a harmless full-body flushing effect.