How to Reduce High Cholesterol With Niacin

People who have high cholesterol and would like to try to treat the condition can consider using Niacin. The National Library of Medicine (NLM) explains that Niacin is vitamin B3 and is naturally occurring in many foods, including fish, chicken, eggs and dairy products (see Resources). You can also take Niacin supplements if you are not getting enough dietary B3.

Things You'll Need

• List of medications Niacin supplements

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Instructions

• 1

  Discuss your cholesterol treatment options with your doctor before you start taking vitamin B3. Make sure you have a list of all of your current medications so he can accurately assess whether this therapy is safe for you.

• 2

  Keep taking your cholesterol medication if you have been prescribed statin drugs. Niacin may not be able to lower your total blood cholesterol levels on its own, but it may help raise your HDL (the "good" cholesterol) levels.

• 3

  Be aware of dosage guidelines if you choose a niacin supplement. Adults need at least 14 mg each day of "niacin equivalent" but can safely supplement up to 35 mg a day. Taking much higher doses of the recommended amounts does not necessarily benefit you and is excreted in your urine.

• 4

  Recognize the side effects you may display when you use vitamin B3 as a high cholesterol treatment. Some people experience temporary redness or flushing of the skin. Niacin may also cause you to have an upset stomach or other digestive issues.