What Is HDL Cholesterol?
10. The Effects of Niacin on HDL
Niacin or nicotinic acid is a form of vitamin B3, an essential human nutrient. It can be obtained from various whole and processed foods and is highest in tuna, salmon, fortified packaged foods, and more. As a supplement, it can be used for the treatment of pellagra and high cholesterol. It increases the HDL levels by inhibiting enzymes and reducing the levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and triglyceride.
Niacin doses of 1 to 3 grams a day have been found to increase HDL levels by 10 to 30%. A study also demonstrated that niacin supplementation helps to significantly reduce the progression of atherosclerosis and lowers the rate of cardiovascular events. The recommended form of niacin would be the immediate-release and cheapest preparation.
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