E375, Niacin and Gut Health

E375, also known as niacin or vitamin B3, is an approved food additive used as an antioxidant and acidity regulator. It plays a key role in energy metabolism and cellular health. While niacin is essential for the body, its synthetic additive form may have different tolerability for sensitive individuals.

  • E375, Niacin is not a FODMAP and does not contain fermentable carbohydrates
  • Does not contain histamine or act as a histamine liberator
  • No fiber content, so no direct prebiotic or fermentative effect
  • Generally well tolerated, but high doses may cause flushing or digestive upset
  • Rarely causes allergies or intolerances

E375, Niacin and FODMAP

E375, Niacin is not a FODMAP and does not contain fermentable carbohydrates. This means it is generally safe for people following a low-FODMAP diet or those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Niacin, whether naturally occurring or added as E375, does not contribute to gas, bloating, or other FODMAP-related symptoms.

E375, Niacin - FODMAP Profile
FODMAPs Level Portion Guidance
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
Low
Disaccharides (Lactose)
Low
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
Low
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
Low
Polyols (Mannitol)
Low
Polyols (Sorbitol)
Low

Histamine and E375, Niacin

E375, Niacin does not contain histamine, does not act as a histamine liberator, and does not block the DAO enzyme. Therefore, it is not considered a trigger for histamine intolerance symptoms. Most people with histamine sensitivity can tolerate niacin as a food additive.

E375, Niacin — Histamine Profile
Histamine & Related Level Portion Guidance
Histamine Level
Low
  • ≤ 1 g = Low
Other Biogenic Amines
Low
  • ≤ 1 g = Low
Histamine Liberator
Low
DAO Blocker
Low

Digestive Tolerability of E375, Niacin

In typical food additive amounts, E375, Niacin is well tolerated by most people. However, very high doses of niacin, usually from supplements, can cause digestive upset such as nausea, stomach discomfort, or flushing. These effects are rare at the levels used in foods.

Fiber and Prebiotic Effect

E375, Niacin contains no dietary fiber and does not act as a prebiotic. It does not feed beneficial gut bacteria or contribute to stool bulk. Its primary role in food is as an antioxidant and acidity regulator, not as a source of fiber or fermentable substrate.

Allergy and Intolerance to E375, Niacin

Allergic reactions to E375, Niacin are extremely rare. Most people tolerate niacin well, whether it is naturally present in food or added as an additive. If you have a known sensitivity to synthetic vitamins or additives, monitor for any unusual symptoms, but niacin is not a common allergen.

E375, Niacin — Allergy Profile
EU Major Allergens
🌾
Cereals with Gluten
Absent
Details
  • Absent Wheat / Spelt
  • Absent Rye
  • Absent Barley
  • Absent Oats
🦐
Crustaceans
Absent
Details
  • Absent Crabs
  • Absent Prawns
  • Absent Shrimp
  • Absent Lobsters
  • Absent Crayfish
🥚
Eggs
Absent
🐟
Fish
Absent
🥜
Peanuts
Absent
🌱
Soy
Absent
🥛
Milk
Absent
🌰
Tree Nuts
Absent
Details
  • Absent Almonds
  • Absent Brazil Nuts
  • Absent Cashews
  • Absent Hazelnuts
  • Absent Macadamia Nuts
  • Absent Pecans
  • Absent Pistachios
  • Absent Walnuts
🍃
Celery
Absent
🧂
Mustard
Absent
🧈
Sesame
Absent
🧪
Sulphur Dioxide & Sulphites
Absent
🌼
Lupin
Absent
🐚
Molluscs
Absent
Details
  • Absent Clams
  • Absent Mussels
  • Absent Octopus
  • Absent Oysters
  • Absent Snails
  • Absent Squid
Other Allergens
🥥
Coconut
Absent
🍯
Honey
Absent
🧫
Yeast
Absent

Sources and Uses of E375, Niacin in Foods

E375, Niacin is added to a range of foods as an antioxidant and acidity regulator, especially in processed products, cereals, and fortified foods. Its synthetic form is used to ensure consistent levels in food manufacturing. The body uses niacin from both natural and synthetic sources in the same way.

Frequently Asked Questions About E375, Niacin and Gut Health

Is E375, Niacin a FODMAP?

No, E375, Niacin is not a FODMAP and is suitable for low-FODMAP diets.

Can E375, Niacin trigger histamine intolerance?

E375, Niacin does not contain or release histamine, so it is not a trigger.

Can E375, Niacin cause digestive symptoms?

Digestive symptoms are rare at food additive levels but possible with very high supplemental doses.

Does E375, Niacin provide fiber or prebiotic benefits?

No, it contains no fiber and does not act as a prebiotic.

Is it possible to be allergic to E375, Niacin?

Allergies to E375, Niacin are extremely rare.