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Health Benefits of Niacin & Alpha Lipoic Acid

Niacin is an important nutrient that has been shown to lower cholesterol, prevent heart disease and prevent pellegra. Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that is produced by the body. It has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and promote brain and nerve health.

  1. Niacin and Cholesterol Management

    • Research published in the "Journal of Lipid Research" indicates that niacin helps to increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels.

    Niacin and Heart Health

    • Research published in the journal "Atherosclerosis" indicates that niacin may help to reduce one's risk of atherosclerosis (heart disease), myocardial infarction, and stroke.

    Niacin Deficiency

    • Niacin is used to treat pellagra, also known as niacin deficiency. Symptoms of pellagra include skin disease, diarrhea, dementia and depression.

    Niacin Dosage

    • The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for niacin is 16 milligrams for adult males and 14 milligrams for adult females.

    Niacin Sources

    • Major sources of niacin include yeast, meat, poultry, fish such as salmon and tuna, legumes, seeds, and fortified bread and cereal products.

    Health Benefits of Alpha-Lipoic Acid

    • Research published in the journal "Free Radical Biology and Medicine" indicates that alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and repairs damaged cells in the body. Alpha-lipoic acid also decreases blood sugar levels, according research published in the "Journal of Nutrition."

    Sources of Alpha-Lipoic Acid

    • Alpha-lipoic acid is mainly made by the body. Foods that contain alpha-lipoic acid include red meat, yeast, and liver.

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