Niacin is sometimes called vitamin “B3” as it is categorised within the B vitamin group of essential organic compounds. Niacin is generally regarded as an essential compound although it can be synthesised in small amounts from L-tryptophan in the liver. High intakes of niacin have been shown to normalise blood lipid levels in those with a dysfunction. One of the effects of high doses of supplemental niacin is an increase in blood flow which can cause peripheral tissue to experience increased blood flow due to dilation of capillaries via altered prostaglandin metabolism. This may explain the benefits for niacin in cases of erectile dysfunction in the short term. However, the effects of niacin of erectile dysfunction may be most evident in those with an underlying dyslipidaemia. This suggests that the two factors, erectile dysfunction and dyslipidaemia may be linked. However, to achieve this the doses in some studies have been very high, and in one study were 1500 mg per day of niacin for 12 weeks.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
Ng, C. F., Lee, C. P., Ho, A. L. and Lee, V. W. 2011. Effect of niacin on erectile function in men suffering erectile dysfunction and dyslipidemia. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 8(10): 2883-2893
