Aspirin and niacin for heart health
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 29 2009
Q: If you have had heart attacks in the family what is the dose of aspirin you should take? Also, if I were to take vitamins what would be the best to help with the heart, blood pressure, and cholesterol?
A: The risk of taking aspirin needs to be weighed against the benefits. You need to discuss this with your doctor. Niacin, otherwise known as B3 has been shown to improve blood fat levels. However, many people are unable to take this vitamin because of side effects. Taking niacin in prescription form often makes it more tolerable. Ask your doctor for a recommendation.
Tags: aspirin, b3, blood pressure, cholesterol, heart attack, heart attacks, Heart Health, Heart Health, niacin, side effects, Supplements, vitamin B, vitaminsNiacin to treat high cholesterol
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 26 2009
Q: I take norvasc and zocor. I would like to know if there is a non prescription herb you can take for high cholesterol. There are so many rumors about cholesterol medications side effects. I hate taking medications but am willing to take something that is natural.
A: Vitamin B3, otherwise known as niacin is a non-prescription supplement that has beneficial effects on cholesterol. It is also available in prescription strengths. Many people prefer taking a statin such as Zocor to niacin because of the common side effect of skin flushing. You certainly should discuss this alternative with your doctor. For more information on niacin, click here.
Tags: Heart Health, high cholesterol, Medical Conditions, niacin, Norvasc, side effect, side effects, supplement, vitamin B, ZocorVitamin B and its effect on high blood pressure
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 12 2007
Q: Will taking vitamin supplements B-6 and B-12 affect my BP?
A: It has been suggested that B vitamins help lower levels of homocysteine in the body. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Whether or not taking B supplements is beneficial is still not clear.
Tags: atherosclerosis, Diet & Exercise, heart attacks, high blood pressure, homocysteine, supplement, vitamin B, vitamin b-12
