Our bodies contain two different types of cholesterol. LDL is your "bad" cholesterol also known as low-density lipoprotein. When too much LDL is present in your bloodstream it adheres to artery walls, which restricts the flow of blood to your heart and brain and increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL cholesterol known as "good" cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein is the portion of cholesterol that travels through your blood picking up excess LDL and transporting it back to your liver for disposal. It is because of this that high levels of HDL cholesterol are important to maintain lower risks of heart attack and stroke.
Function
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that performs important functions like cell wall formation, hormone production and the manufacturing of bile acids to aid in food digestion. Although the liver is capable of producing all the cholesterol necessary for our bodies to function, we also receive additional cholesterol by way of the foods we eat. In some cases, it is necessary to monitor the amount of cholesterol you consume in order to manage overall cholesterol levels.
Causes
Consuming an unhealthy diet can cause low levels of HDL cholesterol. Consume healthy fats such as olive and canola oils and eat nuts like almonds and walnuts. Avoid trans fats, which are commonly found in commercially baked cookies, crackers and cakes and lower your HDL. Whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, lean meats and low-fat dairy products are all good for increasing HDL levels. In addition, limit dietary cholesterol to 300 mg per day and to no more than 200 mg per day if you have heart disease, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatments
Niacin is a B vitamin that is very effective in increasing HDL levels and can increase HDL by up to 35 percent, according to MayoClinic.com. Administered in high doses, it is available by prescription and monitored by your doctor for side effects like skin flushing, upset stomach, headache, dizziness, elevated blood sugar and liver damage. Although niacin is available as an over-the counter supplement, you should not take niacin unless directed by your doctor. Niacin in the form of nicotinic acid is the kind that has supports healthy cholesterol. Niacin in the form of niacinamide and inositol hexanicotinate has not been beneficial in managing cholesterol levels. In some cases, treatment with additional medications like statins, bile-acid-binding resins and cholesterol-absorption inhibitors may be necessary to manage cholesterol. Your doctor will recommend an appropriate treatment regimen.
Prevention
Smoking and alcohol consumption can lower HDL levels. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about smoking cessation programs, and if you drink, consume alcohol only as recommended by your doctor.
Considerations
Although niacin is available over-the-counter in supplement form, you should still seek the guidance of your doctor. The formulations, ingredients and types of niacin in over-the-counter supplements vary so your doctor will want to check the ingredients prior to you taking it.
References
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol: Treatments and Drugs
- http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/heartdisease/risk/029.html
- Cleveland Clinic: How to Lower Your Cholesterol
- American Heart Association: About Cholesterol
- MayoClinic.com: Niacin to Boost Your HDL "Good" Cholesterol
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
