How to Lower Triglycerides With Niacin

Since high levels of triglycerides will increase a person's risk of heart disease, many people are searching for ways to lower their triglycerides. Several options are available. One method involves the use of niacin. Niacin is a derivative of vitamin B. Not only is it known to reduce levels of triglycerides, but it has the added benefit of raising HDL, or good, cholesterol. Before using niacin to lower levels of triglycerides, individuals should know the proper dosage, the possible side effects, and the sources of niacin.

Instructions

• 1

  Consume between 2000 to 6000 milligrams of niacin each day in order to lower triglycerides. This is a very large dose. The normal recommended daily amount for an average woman is 14 milligrams. For an average man, the recommended amount is 16 milligrams daily. However, in order to lower triglycerides, niacin must be consumed in very large doses.

• 2

  Report any occurring side effects to your physician. Such high dosages of niacin can have some negative side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, increased liver enzymes, heartburn, flushing, and liver toxicity. High doses of niacin can also worsen hyperglycemia in diabetics.

• 3

  Obtain the necessary dosage of niacin through a combination of supplements and foods. Supplemental forms of niacin are available in immediate and slow release forms. The slow release form can reduce some of the negative side effects of consuming high doses of niacin. However, it has been linked to some severe liver complications. Sources of dietary niacin include meat, poultry, liver, fish, nuts, green vegetables, whole grains, and potatoes. Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale, are particularly high in niacin. Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, are also niacin rich foods. However, it is unlikely a person could obtain the dosage of niacin necessary to reduce triglycerides through diet alone.