Niacin Research and RequirementsIntroductionNiacin, also commonly known as vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid, is a widespread water-soluble vitamin that has become an intriguing research subject for scientists. The Institution of Medicine leveraged various sources focusing solely on niacin to compile a detailed chapter on the DRIs for this vitamin. Throughout this article, information from the DRI chapter itself as well as other sources contributing to these recommendations will be presented. Nutrient Functions, Nutrient Sources, and At-Risk Population Niacin functions largely in the coenzyme forms nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide. adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) to carry out many biological reactions in the body (Institute of Medicine, 1998, p. 124). Specifically, intracellular respiration is a primary function of NAD, while NADP functions in reductive biosynthesis. Both coenzyme forms of niacin also function as a codehydrogenase. Mixed dishes, which feature meat, fish or poultry as the main entrée; enriched and whole grain breads and baked goods; and fortified ready-to-eat cereals contribute the most to the niacin intake of adults living in the United States, according to the 1995 Continuing Dietary Intake Survey (IOM, 1998, p. 137). Pharmaceutical supplements can also be used as a source of niacin. Supplements containing up to 400 mg of niacin are available to the public over the counter (IOM, 1998, p. 138). Because niacin contributes significantly to the normal functioning of the body, it is important for U.S. citizens to know the sources of niacin in order to get the recommended amount and avoid niacin deficiency. Although today, niacin...... middle of paper ...... energy intake and expenditure cannot be used to help define the EAR and RDA due to the variance in energy use by sex, height, pregnancy and lactation. . Rather, it is recognized that a 10% adjustment in the function of niacin in the oxidation of fuel molecules accounts for these differences as a whole (IOM, 1998, p. 130). In order to produce and present reliable information, tedious screening of resources is necessary to ensure that the science behind the defined recommendations is of good quality. Critical Article Review The Institute of Medicine Standing Committee used a wide range of research and studies to ensure the highest accuracy when compiling the DRI chapter for niacin. One reference, Grace A. Goldsmith MD, presents useful information for defining the niacin DRI in her article “Niacin-Tryptophan Relationship in Man and Niacin Requirements.”