Niacin Side Effects

Studies have show Niacin (nicotinic acid, AKA Bitamin B3) to be a very effective supplement for improving your cholesterol profile by increasing high density lipoproteins (HDL) and lower very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and low density lipoproteins (LDL). This can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Niacin also help the body convert food into energy, use fats and proteins, promote healthy skin, hair, eyes and liver, and assist the function of the nervous system. Niacin is water soluble, meaning the body doesn't store it and must get it from the diet.

Niacin, however, is not without its side effects. The most common side effect is called niacin flush, which is a burning, tingling sensation in the skin, mainly in the and upper chest. The skin may also become very flushed. There are things you can do to help prevent or reduce the niacin flush.

At very high doses (2,000mg daily or more), niacin can be associated with liver damage and stomach ulcers. If you are using high dose Niacin for cholesterol control, make sure you get your liver function checked on a regular basis. 

If you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach ulcers, consult with your doctor before taking Niacin. Same goes if you have diabetes or gallbladder disease.

Niacin can make gout and diabetes worse.

In some people, Niacin has been know to cause a drop on blood pressure. If you already have low blood pressure, consult with your doctor before taking Niacin.

Serious side effects of Niacin include:

• feeling light headed or dizzy, as though you might pass out
• irregular heart beats, or a fast, pounding heart rate
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• swelling, especially in the facial area
• jaundice (yellowing of hte skin or eyes)
• muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness with fever
• dark urine

If you have any of the above side effects, you should seek a doctor's assistance.

Niacin can have less serious side effects as well:

• mild dizziness or feeling light-headed
• warmth, redness, or tingly feeling
• itching, sweating or chills
• nausea, diarrhea, belching, gas
• muscle pain and leg cramps
• insomnia

Talking Niacin with food and plenty of liquid can help prevent some of these less serious side effects.

Don't let the above scare you away. Niacin is a very good supplement, and is the best out there for raising HDL and lowering triglycerides. Most people tolerate it fine.