Niacin Flush

Research has established that niacin can improve your cholesterol profile by increasing high density lipoproteins (HDL - the good cholesterol) and lowering very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and low density lipoproteins (LDL), both of which are considered the "bad" cholesterol and can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Some additional benefits of Niacin have also been discovered: it has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, help you relax, and contribute to better sleep.

Anyone who's take a substantial dose of Niacin (nicotinic acid, not inositol hexanicotinate), usually in the range of 500mg or more, has probably experienced what is called the "Niacin flush". The Niacin flush is a warm, sometimes itchy or prickly feeling that comes over the skin with 10 - 30 minutes after taking a Niacin dose. The feeling is often accompanied by a noticeable red flushing of the skin, especially of the face, upper chest, and shoulders, although it can include the whole body. In some cases, the flush can be very uncomfortable, and may even be accompanied by a increased heart rate, sweating, extreme itching, and dizziness.

It can last a few minutes, or up to 30 minutes or even longer, depending on the dose, an individual's sensitivity, whether or not it's taken on an empty stomach, and other factors.When a person first starts taking Niacin, the flush is typically more pronounced and can accompany even small doses.

What causes the Niacin flush?

Niacin causes blood vessels on the surface of the skin, called capillaries, to dilate (expand in size). This allows more blood flow to the surface of the skin, which is what causes the blushing or reddening. This increased blood flow helps these cells get rid of waste products. In response to these waste products entering the blood stream, the body then produces histamine. It's this histamine that causes the tingly, itchy feeling.

While the flush response to high-dose Niacin may be alarming, it is completely harmless. In fact,  niacin is sometimes recommended to help with circulation in conditions like Raynaud's syndrome.

But even though it's harmless, it can be uncomfortable and distracting. And people might very well be wondering why you're walking around glowing like you just got a bad sunburn! There are a few things you can try to help prevent the Niacin flush.