Niacin promotes digestive system functioning as well as healthy skin and nerve cells. Also, it supports your metabolic system by helping your body convert food into energy. Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin that is also known as vitamin B3. Since your body does not store water-soluble vitamins, it requires a continues supply of niacin. Niacin supplements help people with pellagra, a condition characterized by niacin deficiency.
Cholesterol
According to Drugs.com, niacin supplements may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. MayoClinic.com reports that niacin may help raise your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as the "good" cholesterol, by 15 to 35 percent. Higher HDL cholesterol levels are associated with lower LDL cholesterol levels, because HDL cholesterol transports LDL cholesterol to the liver for disposal. According to the Mayo Clinic, having a low HDL cholesterol level increases your risk of developing heart disease. Ideal HDL levels for men and women are above 60 ml/dL.
Prevent Second Heart Attack
The Drugs website indicates that niacin supplements may reduce the risk of a second heart attack in a person with high cholesterol. According to the Medline Plus website, niacin can reduce the risk factors that are associated with heart disease such as unhealthy cholesterol levels and fibrinogen. Medline Plus states that niacin, especially when combined with another cholesterol-lowering drug, such as a statin, may help prevent a second heart attack.
Arthrosclerosis
The National Institutes of Health U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that there is good scientific evidence for using niacin supplements to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, but they advise further research before reaching firm conclusions for atherosclerosis treatment with niacin. Medline Plus suggests combining niacin supplements with other cholesterol-lowering drugs to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
Member Comments