Heart Disease and the B Vitamin Choline
A proposed link between the B vitamin choline and coronary artery disease is being explored. The relationship between choline and coronary artery disease (CAD) may involve the accumulation of homocysteine and the effect these concentrated homocysteine levels have on endothelial cells (inner layer of blood vessels).
Several studies indicate that homocysteine levels are a key contributor and primary risk factor for CAD. While on the flip side, several studies have shown no decreased CAD risk with a reduction in homocysteine levels.
So, the importance of choline in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease is debatable. Regardless, choline plays important roles in metabolism and normal cell function, so it’s worth knowing a little about this B vitamin.
Increase HDL Cholesterol – How Much Niacin?
A subscriber to The Heart of Health submitted the following question.
“Hello Lisa – Just read the article concerning subject matter (Zetia versus Niacin) and would appreciate knowing if there are Niacin brands and/or amount of dosage you can recommend. As information, I have taken 50 Mg of Niacin for approximately 2 years along with Vytorin, and my Cardiologist is very happy with my blood results and other testing. Thank you very much.”
Recommended dosage for niacin varies drastically from 50-3,000 mg per day. So, you are on the right track working with your physician to determine what level is best for you. In the study you reference above, the niacin level prescribed was 2000 mg per day. Dr. Stephan Sinatra reports in his book Reverse Heart Disease Now that he typically finds 1500-2000 mg enough for more people to raise low HDL levels.
