dLife Daily Tips

Do you have hypoglycemic unawareness?

Read More View All Tips

Diabetes Questions & Answers
Your diabetes questions answered by our Experts and Community.


Can't find the answer you are looking for?
Ask a new question
The Question
09/29/09 06:45 PM

"I read your article re lowering hi cholesterol with niacin. I read that you should not take large amounts of niacin with diabetes, is that true?"
Asked By: kbrekke  
Category: Other

Background Info Hide
n/a

Expert Answers (1)

09/30/09 09:07 PM

Dear kbrekke,

Thank you for writing dLife.

As a drug, niacin, which is also known as vitamin B3, lowers cholesterol, VLDL and triglyceride levels and raises HDL levels. However in drug form it may lead to liver damage, peptic ulcers, skin rashes and worsening of your blood glucose control .

If you are considering the use of niacin or any other vitamin or mineral supplement, make sure you discuss it with your doctor or health-care provider. Because of the side effects the drug form of niacin may not be right for you.

Good dietary sources of niacin are dairy products, poultry, fish, lean meats, nuts, and eggs. Legumes and enriched breads and cereals also supply some niacin.

Healthy regards!

Accreditations: MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN
Sources Show

Community Answers (1)

10/01/09 10:19 AM

I have taken niacin in the past, be aware that you may get very flushed in the head and face so be careful of how much you take.
Answered By: furball64801
FLAG
SourcesShow



 

*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

Sign up for FREE dLife Newsletters

dLife Membership is FREE! Get exclusive access, free recipes, newsletters, savings, and much more! FPO

FPO

Congratulations!
You are subscribed!
Congratulations!
You are subscribed!
Congratulations!
You are subscribed!

dLife Weekly Poll

Has diabetes made it difficult to get/renew a driver's license?