Niacin Detox Diets

Niacin--vitamin B3--is an ingredient in many over-the-counter detoxification products because of its effects on blood circulation and energy metabolism. Niacin also is the basis for some detox diets.

Properties

• One of niacin's components is nicotinic acid, a compound that can expand blood vessels, improving circulation and blood flow. The body uses niacin to release the energy stored within carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Niacin also helps with DNA repair and enables the body to use calcium.

  When not detoxing, men age 19 and older should get 16 milligrams per day, while women 19 and older should get 14 milligrams per day. Niacin is found naturally in whole grains, peanuts, mushrooms and seafood.

How Niacin Detox Works

• Proponents of detoxification say that toxins that accumulate in the body are most often stored within fat cells. This can make it difficult to remove these toxins, as fat cells are difficult to break down. Niacin causes blood vessels and capillaries to dilate, allowing more blood flow to reach the fat cells and flush out the toxins into the bloodstream. This also increases oxygen flow throughout the body, promoting overall good health.

Niacin Detox Diets

• The healthiest niacin detox diet for most individuals is to eat foods rich in niacin, such as salmon, mushrooms and peanuts, while drinking plenty of water throughout the day and exercising regularly. Exercise helps break down fat cells within the body, while the niacin works to clear out the toxins in the fat cells. The liquid consumption will then help flush the toxins out of the bloodstream.

  Niacin supplements are another method of detoxing. According to the University of Florida, the suggested maximum daily dosage for niacin is 35 milligrams per day. Take niacin supplements with food and drink plenty of liquid during the detox process. Combine with aerobic exercising, such as running or cycling, unless you are fasting, in which case you will want to conserve your energy.

  If you want to exceed the suggested daily value of niacin, talk to a doctor, as health complications such as skin flushing, itching and liver damage are possible with excessive niacin intake.