Alcohol consumption can affect the absorption and metabolism of various nutrients in the body, including niacin. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cell signaling [2]. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), alcohol consumption can interfere with niacin absorption, leading to a deficiency of this essential nutrient [2].
The Harvard School of Public Health states that excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver, leading to liver disease and impairing the body's ability to absorb and utilize niacin [3]. Chronic alcohol consumption can also lead to a condition called alcoholic pellagra, which is characterized by symptoms such as skin rashes, diarrhea, and dementia [3]. Pellagra is caused by niacin deficiency, which can occur due to inadequate dietary intake or impaired absorption [2].
Moreover, the Drug Patent Watch database lists alcohol as a potential drug interaction with niacin [1]. While the exact mechanism of interaction is not clear, it is suggested that alcohol may interfere with the absorption of niacin in the gastrointestinal tract [1].
In conclusion, alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption and utilization of niacin, leading to a deficiency of this essential nutrient. Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to liver damage and pellagra, a condition caused by niacin deficiency. Therefore, individuals who consume alcohol regularly should ensure adequate intake of niacin-rich foods or consider taking niacin supplements under medical supervision to prevent deficiency [2, 3].
Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. (n.d.). Alcohol drug interactions. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ALCOHOL
[2] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Niacin: Fact sheet for health professionals. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Niacin-HealthProfessional/
[3] Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2021). Niacin. Retrieved from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/niacin-vitamin-b3/