Is there any reason I shouldn't take over-the-counter niacin supplements to raise my HDL?

Question

I've successfully lowered my cholesterol to 160, but my HDL is down to 30 in the process. Should I take niacin?

Answer 1

I just went through this with my doctor. You need the prescribed kind. To get the same amout of good as the prescribed kind you have to take so much it actually does damage to your body.

Coach

Answer 2

You could, except with over the counter supplements there are no FDA standards. Actually, there are no nationally recognized standards. Over the counter supplements, herbals, and other natural meds may not have in them what is stated on the bottle. There could easily be more, less, or no active ingredient inside.

Niacin is cheap anyway. I would just get the tried and true stuff.

I do wonder about the lower HDL. HDL usually responds positively to exercise. I would try that, if you haven't, before adding another drug.

Answer 3

The high doses of niacin that are needed to raise your HDL may be toxic to the liver. Therefore, you will need to have periodic liver tests (blood tests) to monitor things. It would be wise to only take high doses of niacin under the guidance of an experienced healthcare provider (Medical doctor, Chiropractor, Naturopathic Physician or Certified Clinical Nutritionist). (Note: time-release niacin is generally considered the risky form).

Answer 4

The time-released niacin ("Niaspan" is the leading brand) is marginally more likely to cause the -reversible- liver problems, but is much much less likely to cause the irritating flushing and itching that always occur with regular niacin. If you have no liver disease, the risk is acceptable, with regular monitoring of liver function.

Answer 5

do you have ciliac disease? that will make you not absorb niacin too