Niacin is a B vitamin and should be a part of a healthy diet. Niacin can provide you with some protective properties. In recent years, niacin has become more accepted as a treatment for high cholesterol. Niacin is available as a prescription drug from your doctor, as a dietary supplement and in certain foods. Always use caution and consult your doctor before taking any new supplement. Your doctor can determine the safest plan of action for you.
High Cholesterol
There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL, or low density lipoprotein; and HDL, or high density lipoprotein. LDL cholesterol is considered the "bad" cholesterol. A high level of LDL cholesterol puts you at risk for developing heart disease, stroke or peripheral artery disease. LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the blood vessels and lead to plaque build-up. According to the American Heart Association, a healthy person should be considered for cholesterol drug therapy if he has an LDL cholesterol of 190 milligrams per deciliter, or mg/dL, of blood or higher. HDL cholesterol is considered the "good" cholesterol. It helps your body remove excess cholesterol and fat from the bloodstream. MayoClinic.com states that your ideal HDL cholesterol level is 60 mg/dL or higher.
Niacin: Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, there are two main ways that niacin affects cholesterol levels. It is very effective at raising your HDL cholesterol levels. In fact, niacin can raise it by 15 percent to 35 percent. In addition, niacin can effectively lower your LDL cholesterol.
Pathophysiology
Niacin acts on several mechanisms that control mobilization of fats inside the bloodstream and that affect the breakdown of HDL cholesterol. In a 2003 study published in "The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry," University of California, Irvine, researchers Shobha H. Ganji and colleagues found that niacin inhibits fat mobilization from deposits around the body and from the liver, thus decreasing LDL levels. Niacin can also decrease reactions that break down HDL cholesterol, thus increasing HDL levels.
Dosage and Considerations
For safe dosing options, consult your doctor. Generally, niacin is taken with a glass of cold water and a snack due to certain side effects, according to Drugs.com. Niacin may not be for everyone, specifically for those who have diabetes, gout, stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney disease or heart disease.
Sources
Niacin can be found naturally in some foods, in prescription drugs or an over-the-counter supplement. Food sources of niacin include dairy, fish, meats, nuts and eggs. Over-the-counter supplements are readily available at any pharmacy or vitamin store. Supplements may be effective in lowering cholesterol. If you wish to try a niacin supplement, talk with your doctor first.
