Niacin

Statins are the best drugs to treat inflammation, but niacin is the best drug to treat the cholesterol particle size abnormalities which lead to plaque formation. It improves HDL, triglycerides, total LDL, and the LDL particle size mix.

Who should take niacin?

  • Anyone who fails to reach the goal for APO B or HDL with a statin
  • Most diabetics
  • Those with elevated lipoprotein(a)
  • Those with the Kif-6 genetic variant who are non carriers of Arg
  • Those who have difficulty normalizing inflammatory markers (niacin is somewhat anti- inflammatory)

What type should be used?

 You should use either brand Niaspan or OTC niacin that causes flushing. “No flush” OTC brands are metabolized differently, making them less effective and potentially more toxic to the liver.

How to avoid the niacin flush

  • Patience- The effect will go away. It may lessen after just one
  • Take aspirin 30 minutes before
  • Take it with any fiber
  • Take it with pectins (prunes, apricots, applesauce)
  • Take 30-60 minutes before
  • Purchase the brand Endur-Acin. It has a coating that slows absorption to minimize side effects. It may be purchased