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A recent Cleveland Clinic study found a link between the onset of cardiovascular disease and high niacin levels. Niacin is a B vitamin prevalent in the Western diet. It also treats high triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
According to current research, the “vitamin B paradox” stems from the possibility that certain B vitamin supplements may increase the risk of heart disease. Research suggests that high doses of many B vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folic acid, may negatively impact heart health, despite the established benefits of B vitamins in promoting cardiovascular health, such as lowering levels of homocysteine, a risk factor. is heart disease Health experts and consumers are concerned because increased intake of these vitamins from supplements increases the risk of heart disease.
Previously unknown pathway
The study’s finding involves a mechanism that was previously unknown and involves 4PY, which is caused by consuming too much niacin. This chemical is essential for the development of heart disease.
For many years, the United States has relied heavily on niacin, sometimes referred to as vitamin B-3, in its food fortification programs. But according to research, too much niacin increases blood levels of 4PY, which may be a factor in cardiovascular disease.
Elevated levels of 4PY have been strongly associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other adverse cardiac events.
Direct damage to blood vessels
Dr. Stanley Hazen and colleagues have demonstrated a role for 4PY in vascular inflammation in preclinical experiments. Additionally, researchers discovered that 4PY directly affects blood vessels, which can eventually lead to atherosclerosis.
The genetic connection between 4PY and vascular inflammation is under investigation. This establishes a framework for potential novel treatments and actions to reduce or stop this inflammation.
Study significance
“What is exciting about these results is that this pathway appears to be a previously unrecognized but important contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Hazen said.
Additionally, it is quantifiable, which suggests that a diagnostic test is possible. These realizations paved the way for new strategies to mitigate the effects of this pathway.”
“For decades, the United States and more than 50 nations have mandated niacin fortification in staple foods such as flour, cereals and oats to prevent disease related to nutritional deficiency.”
Critical insights
But according to the researchers’ group of patients, one in four study participants may be consuming too much niacin. These people showed higher levels of 4PY, which may have a role in the development of cardiovascular disease.
“The bottom line is not that we should reduce our total niacin intake—that’s not a realistic approach,” Dr. Hazen said. “Given these findings, there may be a debate as to whether it is necessary to fortify flours and cereals with niacin in the U.S.”
Dr. Hazen pointed out that because niacin pills are believed to offer anti-aging benefits, their use has grown in popularity. He advises patients to focus on diet, avoiding high amounts of fruits and vegetables, and to talk to their doctor before using over-the-counter supplements carbohydrates.
Study implications
This research has broad implications. They question stereotypes and assumptions about food intake and niacin supplementation. Because of its purported benefits, niacin has long been a preferred therapy for lowering LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
But this study explains why niacin may not be the best choice for controlling cholesterol levels. Niacin’s benefits for lowering cholesterol may be offset by its harmful side effects.
Paradoxical effects
“The benefits of niacin have always been a bit controversial,” Dr. Hazen said. “Despite niacin lowering cholesterol, the clinical benefits based on the magnitude of LDL reduction have always been less than expected.”
This led to the theory that the LDL-lowering benefits are partially offset by the negative effects of excess niacin. We think our research sheds light on this question. This is why looking at residual cardiovascular risk is so important; We find much more than expected.”
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