Our Niacin and Cholesterol Guide 

Niacin is one of the most popular supplements for preventing heart disease. Several studies have established links between niacin and cholesterol reduction. Also called vitamin B3, niacin lowers blood levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol. It also increases the production of “good” cholesterol or high-density lipoproteins (HDL), making it an essential part of maintenance diets for diabetics and heart disease patients. Most doctors also recommend niacin and cholesterol-lowering supplements in addition to healthy diets. This guide offers basic information on niacin and cholesterol reduction, and tips on using niacin supplements.

1. Forms of niacin

Niacin comes in two forms – nicotinamide and nicotinic acid. Only the latter is used for cholesterol reduction. Although nicotinamide has its own health benefits, it should not be used in place of nicotinic acid.

2. Side effects

Niacin flush. There are also two types of nicotinic acid – immediate-release and extended release. The immediate release type can cause a side effect called niacin flush, characterized by reddening and a burning or tingling in the face and chest. Extended release niacin is less likely to trigger this effect.

Liver problems. High doses of niacin can cause liver damage, stomach ulcers, and various gastrointestinal problems. Your doctor should perform regular blood tests to monitor liver function when using niacin to treat cardiovascular disease.

Interaction with other medicines. Niacin can react negatively to some chemicals. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications. Possible reactions may occur with aspirin, antibiotics, diabetes medications, and high blood pressure medications.

3. Proper dosage

Niacin and cholesterol-lowering medicines can be toxic when taken in excessive amounts. Patients who are used to low niacin levels may severe flush when taking more than 20 mg of niacin daily, but the body eventually adjusts to the new dosage. Doses higher than 500 mg are considered unsafe and must be taken only in extreme deficiency, and only under close supervision by a doctor. Consult your doctor before starting any niacin supplements, and take them only in the recommended dosage.

IMPORTANT: Because dietary supplements are not strictly regulated, some products may contain harmful extenders like sugar, starch, silica, and gluten. Choose only niacin and cholesterol medications that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. This ensures that your products contain no such chemicals and have passed stringent quality tests. Also, make sure the product does not contain any additives, such as artificial colors and flavors.
 

A Comprehensive Supplement

A company we personally use called Xtend-Life natural products meets all of the above requirements and more. Their breakthrough and recommended cholesterol formula contains Policosanol along with gugulipid, in addition to many other heart healthy nutrients.

We here at Nutritional-Supplement-Guides have members of our family using this supplement with remarkable results.

Nutritional Supplements :: Vitamin information :: List of minerals :: Amino acids :: Herbal nutrition :: Our Nutrition e-book :: Health Nutrients

Omega 3 :: Skincare :: Menopause :: Herbal Supplements :: Nutritional Diet Vitamin Supplements :: Partner sites :: Terms :: Privacy