Endometriosis and Vitamin B3

As we mentioned in other articles, endometriosis grows somewhere else other than the endometrium; it also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle by building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. As we know, nutritional supplements play a very important role in treating all kind of diseases. In this article, we will discuss how Vitamin B3 helps to treat endometriosis.

I. Definition

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin. Besides being used to treat pellagra caused by dietary lack of vitamin B3 and protein, it also has been known to be effective in treating endometriosis because women with endometriosis are found to have vitamin B3 deficiency. It has a chemical compound formula of C6H5NO2.

II. How vitamin B3 helps in treating endometriosis

1. Hormone synthesis
It is found to help the manufacturing of hormones such as cortisone and the sex hormone estrogen in a woman’s body. Besides helping to inhibit levels of bad estrogen that causes menstrual cramps during menstrual cycle, it also helps to balance the prostaglandin hormone which causes over-active uterine muscles.

2. Digestive system
Deficiency of vitamin B3 is generally found in women with endometriosis during menstruation. It may be caused by the inability of the digestive system in breaking down food particles. Intake of vitamin B3 helps to re-balance the hormones that cause menstrual cramps.

3. Metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats
Besides helping to provide energy for our body in metabolism of carbohydrate through bile secretion, it also helps in the metabolism of protein and fat which are important for our body’s function.

4. Circulatory stimulation
It also helps in stimulation of the circulatory system by reducing the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) from the arteries in some people.

5. Nervous system
Vitamin B3 is important for the healthy activity of the nervous system by providing the metabolism of protein and fat which are nutrients necessary for brain cells resulting in reduced symptoms of endometriosis such as depression, anxiety, and irritation.

6. Inflammation
It increases the level of prostaglandin hormones which control the physiologic processes of blood clotting and inflammation.