Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is water-soluble.
This means that vitamin B3 dissolves in water and is carried to the body's tissues, but it is not stored in the body to any great extent. Therefore, it needs to be replenished regularly through diet. Excess amounts of water-soluble vitamins are typically excreted in the urine.
Here's a further breakdown:
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Water-Soluble Vitamins: These vitamins, including all the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) and vitamin C, are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Because they are not stored in the body, regular intake is important.
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Fat-Soluble Vitamins: These vitamins (A, D, E, and K) are absorbed with the help of fats in the diet and can be stored in the body's tissues.
The National Institutes of Health provides detailed information on niacin and its properties on their Niacin - Health Professional Fact Sheet.