When niacin is given in therapeutic doses, most studies report between 20% and 30% reductions in low density lipoprotein (LDL, the bad cholesterol) levels. Of all the lipid lowering substances, including drugs, niacin probably produces the greatest elevations in protective high density lipoprotein (HDL, the good cholesterol) levels, with many studies reporting rises between 10 and 15 mg./dl.^(1,9)

Niacin has also been shown to enhance the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs.^(1,9,10) Because of the potential adverse side effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs, the National Institute of Health urges that "maximal efforts" at dietary therapy be made before initiating drug therapy.

Niacin produces a number of beneficial effects to counteract the atherosclerotic processes.

• Niacin reduces production of LDL and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) in the liver. LDL, which is dependent upon VLDL for its production, draws cholesterol into the lining of the arteries, resulting in an atherosclerotic build-up of occluding plaque.^(1,5,6)

• At therapeutic levels, niacin has been shown to increase HDL. HDL draws cholesterol away from the lining of the arteries, thus counteracting the effect of LDL.^(1,5,6,9)

• Niacin appears to have a strong effect on the production of prostaglandins. PGI₂ has been shown conclusively to be involved with platelet aggregation in the blood. Without sufficient PGI₂, blood has more tendency to clot and the risk of vascular occlusion is increased.^(1,6)

• Niacin also removes triglycerides from the blood through a process called lipoprotein lipase activity. When triglycerides are reduced in the blood, LDL levels are reduced as well.^(1,6,7)

• Niacin dilates the blood vessels which improves circulation and helps flush out existing plaque.⁽³⁾

Niacin is metabolized by the body to form niacinamide, but only niacin, not the niacinamide, lowers cholesterol. It is speculated that the cholesterol lowering action in the liver occurs at the time of metabolism from niacin to niacinamide.⁽¹⁾

Early research called for 1500 to 6000 mg of niacin daily as an effective therapeutic dose for cholesterol reduction. However, sustained release niacin allows cholesterol lowering effects to be achieved using about half the amount needed with other niacin supplements. Many users report even better results using sustained release niacin, taking only half the amount they had previously taken of standard niacin products.

Sustained release niacin also reduces or eliminates the noticeable "flush" experienced by some people using standard niacin preparations. The flush is a tingly, prickly sensation of the skin, primarily on the arms, shoulders, back and chest. Often the skin will turn pink or red as though one had been in the sun. The flush is completely harmless and will lessen or disappear with continued use.^(1,2,3) Some people find the flush objectionable, while others find the sensation pleasant. Using standard niacin preparations, some people may experience this flush with doses as low as 50 mg.⁽¹⁾

Niacin functions in over fifty metabolic reactions. It plays a key role in glycolysis, the conversion of pyruvic acid to acetyl CoA and reactions of the Krebs Cycle and the hexose monophosphate shunt. All of these reactions are important in the release of energy from carbohydrates.⁽²⁾

Niacin is also important in the beta oxidation of fatty acids. It is essential for the formation of steroids, the metabolism of several drugs and toxicants and in the formation of red blood cells. Because of its diverse and critical role in so many metabolic pathways, niacin is vital in supplying energy to, and maintaining the integrity of, all body cells.⁽²⁾

Niacin deficiency, known as pellagra, affects every cell, but is most critical in tissues with rapid turnover such as the skin, the gastrointestinal tract and the nerves. The U.S. R.D.A. for Niacin is based on calorie intake, 6.6 mg. per 1000 calories, but no less than 13 mg. daily. Pellagra will result in most people with less than 7.5 mg. per day of dietary niacin.^(2,3)

Supplemental niacin has been shown to be beneficial in a number of conditions:

• Elevate blood cholesterol levels have been lowered using niacin alone or in combination with a low fat/high fiber diet, as well as with cholesterol-lowering drugs.^{(1,3,5,6,7,8,9,10)}

• Diarrhea has been completely cleared up in as little as two days.⁽³⁾

• Atherosclerosis, attacks of Menier's syndrome (vertigo) and some cases of progressive deafness have improved or even disappeared.⁽³⁾

• Niacin is often used to reduce high blood pressure and increase circulation in cramped, painful legs of the elderly.⁽³⁾

• Since niacin stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid, it has been used as an aid to impaired digestion.⁽³⁾

• Many insomniacs respond well to the sleep inducing effects of niacin.⁽³⁾

• Niacin has been successfully used in the treatment of acne in doses of 100 mg. three times daily for 2 or 3 weeks.^(3,4)

• Niacin is important for brain metabolism. In studies, Niacin along with other vitamins, relieved such schizophrenic symptoms as paranoia and hallucinations.

• Niacin has also been used successfully in the treatment of alcohol and drug dependency and reduces the effects of hallucinogens such as LSD and mescaline.⁽³⁾

• Because of its ability to elevate and stabilize blood sugar levels, niacin is beneficial to hypoglycemics as well as diabetics, an may be helpful in weight loss programs.⁽³⁾

• Because of its ability to dilate blood vessels, niacin may be helpful in alleviating the pain of migraine headaches.

Niacin is found in small quantities in foods and is manufactured within the body from the amino acid tryptophan. The vitamin is absorbed in the intestine and stored primarily in the liver. Any excess is eliminated through the urine. No real toxic effects are known; however, patients with active peptic ulcer, liver disease, severe heart arrhythmias, diabetes or gout should be closely monitored by their doctors when taking this vitamin in large doses.^(1,2,3)

Excessive consumption of sugar and starches will deplete the body's supply of niacin as will certain antibiotics. During pregnancy, lactation, illness, tissue trauma, growth periods and after physical exercise, daily requirements are increased.^(2,3)

WARNING:   This publication and the product contained herein have not been approved or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This publication, and the product contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The product relates to nutritional support only.

Each tablet contains: % Daily Value
Niacin - Vitamin B3 (Nicotinic Acid) 500 mg. 2500%

Formulated to release over several hours.

Other ingredients: modified cellulose gums, vegetable oil, silica, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, food coating.

Recommended Use: For lowering elevated blood cholesterol, therapeutic doses of one to three tablets daily are recommended.

Product No. 435 Fill Size: 100 Tablets
Price:  $12.00