The #1 Best Remedy to Prevent a Heart Attack for $3.19

Dr. Eric Berg 10/27/2024

You might be surprised to hear that a simple, inexpensive vitamin could hold the key to preventing heart attacks. This isn't something you'll likely hear from mainstream sources, as this remedy doesn't come with a hefty price tag.

But decades of research suggests niacin heart benefits could be significant, especially for those with high blood pressure. My dad, who struggled with heart issues like atrial fibrillation and even had a pacemaker, stumbled upon niacin's potential.

He began taking these tablets regularly on his own and noticed an improvement in his condition. This sparked my deep dive into the scientific evidence surrounding niacin and if it could reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

The Science Behind Niacin Heart Benefits

Several clinical trials highlight niacin's remarkable potential in preventing heart attacks. The Coronary Drug Project, a placebo-controlled study published in JAMA Network, revealed impressive results using nicotinic acid.

How Niacin Supports Cardiovascular Health

Niacin tackles heart health from multiple angles, addressing many risk factors for heart attacks. One major way niacin, a form of vitamin B3, supports heart health is by effectively lowering cholesterol levels.

Lowers LDL (Bad) Cholesterol and Triglycerides: High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. Niacin helps reduce this harmful cholesterol. It also helps lower triglycerides, another type of fat in your blood linked to heart disease.
Raises HDL (Good) Cholesterol: HDL cholesterol works to remove LDL from your arteries, acting as a protective factor against cardiovascular events. Niacin effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels.
Reduces C-Reactive Protein: C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation, is a strong predictor of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart issues. Niacin has been shown to significantly lower CRP levels, combatting this silent threat.
Combats Vascular Inflammation: Inflammation plays a key role in the formation of plaque in your arteries. Niacin actively reduces white blood cell reaction within artery walls, minimizing damaging inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect helps to prevent lipids and fats from attaching to the artery walls.
Powerful Antioxidant: Oxidation of LDL cholesterol is a major contributor to plaque formation. Niacin's potent antioxidant properties counteract this oxidation process.
May Prevent or Slow Atherosclerosis: By addressing multiple risk factors, including high cholesterol, inflammation, and oxidative stress, niacin demonstrates potential in preventing or slowing the progression of atherosclerosis.

You can reap niacin's heart-protective benefits through dietary sources as well. Incorporate niacin-rich foods into your diet, such as:

Red meat
Poultry
Fish
Nuts and seeds
Legumes

Many cereals and breads are fortified with niacin. However, given what you're about to read regarding a specific niacin breakdown product, you might want to consider getting your niacin from whole foods when possible.

Generic pack of statins

Niacin vs. Statins for Cholesterol

Many people with high cholesterol are prescribed statins. However, while they effectively block the body's cholesterol production, there's no concrete evidence that statins reduce heart attacks. They may also come with a few drawbacks.

One concern is that statins interfere with bile salt production, crucial for absorbing essential vitamins like:

Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K1
Vitamin K2.

Vitamin K2, in particular, plays a vital role in keeping calcium out of arteries, preventing calcification and supporting heart health. Some individuals on statins also report decreased testosterone levels.

Statins also block coenzyme Q10, essential for muscle cell mitochondria, including those in your heart. Side effects may include muscle wasting, aches, and in more severe cases, heart failure.

It's essential to remember that I am not advising you to stop taking prescribed statins. But it's about informed decisions.

Take the time to research and discuss the benefits and risks of all medications and treatments with your doctor, ensuring your treatment plan aligns with your individual needs and preferences.

Understanding Potential Risks and Recent Findings

While niacin offers promising benefits for heart health, recent research indicates potential risks associated with high levels of niacin, specifically relating to the byproduct 4PY (4-pyridone-N-oxide).

Scientists discovered this connection in more recent studies.

Increased Heart Disease Risk: Studies suggest that high levels of niacin may contribute to an elevated risk of heart disease due to 4PY.
Inflammation and Plaque Formation: As niacin is metabolized, it produces 4PY, which can activate inflammatory pathways associated with plaque formation in arteries. Research from the National Institutes of Health indicates that levels of VCAM-1, a protein linked to inflammation in blood vessels, correlated with 4PY levels.
Predictive of Cardiovascular Events: Research involving adults with or at risk of heart disease found that the presence of 4PY predicted future risks of stroke, heart attack, and even death. Studies involving mice showed similar results: when injected with 4PY, these mice exhibited increased inflammation within their blood vessels.
Questioning Fortification Practices: The findings regarding 4PY have raised concerns about the widespread fortification of flour and cereals with niacin.

Prednisone tablets

Finding the Right Niacin Dosage

The optimal dosage of niacin for heart benefits can vary depending on individual factors and should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Based on my experience, I recommend starting with a lower dosage, such as 500mg of extended-release niacin daily.

Closely monitor for any side effects, the most common being flushing. Extended-release niacin may be a more suitable option to minimize this side effect.

Prioritize consulting with your doctor to determine if niacin supplementation aligns with your specific health conditions and to personalize your dosage.

This way you can reap the benefits while understanding any potential risks associated with high niacin intake.

Conclusion

While not a magic cure, understanding niacin heart benefits opens up valuable possibilities for those with cardiovascular disease. Niacin deficiency is a real concern that can lead to a condition called pellagra, so it's something to discuss with your doctor.

Remember to discuss niacin supplementation with your doctor, just as you would any medication or supplement, particularly if you have underlying health conditions. You can find a balance and support your heart health effectively.

FAQs about niacin heart benefits

Does niacin help with clogged arteries?

Niacin's benefits for clogged arteries are complex and not a simple yes or no. Research suggests niacin can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol, contributing to healthier arteries. But it's not a quick fix and works best alongside a healthy lifestyle.

Does niacin speed up your heart?

Niacin, particularly in high doses, is known for its flushing effect, which can cause temporary skin redness and warmth.

While some may perceive this as their heart racing, it's not directly speeding up your heart. If you experience rapid or irregular heartbeats, it's essential to consult a medical professional.

Is niacin good for lowering blood pressure?

While niacin can indirectly support blood pressure regulation by improving overall cardiovascular health, its primary benefits don't directly target lowering blood pressure.

If you are seeking a supplement or medication to lower blood pressure, discuss other options, like potassium with your healthcare provider. They can recommend what aligns best with your health needs.

What happens if you take niacin every day?

Taking niacin daily, especially in higher doses, should be done under the guidance of a medical professional. They can help determine a safe and effective dose for your needs.

Long-term, high-dose niacin use can lead to potential side effects, especially liver-related issues, and interfere with other medications. Consulting your doctor helps you take it responsibly.

This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on using niacin and any other supplements or medications.