What's the recommended niacin intake for kids daily?

How much niacin do children need each day?

Niacin intake targets for children are based on age. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) values are: [1]

- Ages 1–3 years: 6 mg per day [1]
- Ages 4–8 years: 8 mg per day [1]
- Ages 9–13 years: 12 mg per day [1]
- Ages 14–18 years:
- Boys: 16 mg per day [1]
- Girls: 14 mg per day [1]

What counts as “niacin” (and do kids need it as mg of NE)?

Niacin from foods and supplements can be expressed as mg of niacin or “niacin equivalents” (NE). The RDA numbers above are given in mg NE per day. [1]

What if my child doesn’t eat much niacin-rich food?

If a child’s diet consistently falls short of the RDA, the usual approach is to improve food sources of niacin first (such as meat, fish, poultry, beans, and fortified grains), rather than adding supplements without medical guidance. This helps avoid either under- or over-shooting intake. (Dietary guidance depends on the child’s overall nutrition and health status.) [1]

Is the niacin target the same for teens and younger kids?

No. Niacin needs increase with age, and the RDA differs by sex for ages 14–18 years. [1]

Sources

[1] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Niacin-HealthProfessional/