Beyond the Benefits: The Hidden Dangers of High-Dose Niacin

In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I share my personal journey with niacin supplementation and the things I learned along the way. Use this to grow your understanding of niacin and to better understand its nuanced effects, from its potential benefits in lowering Lipoprotein(a) levels to the unexpected pitfalls of high-dose administration. Make sure to listen to the full episode to learn more.

Key Points:

  • Caution with High-Dose Niacin – I emphasize the necessity of caution when considering high-dose niacin therapy. There are potential adverse effects in some people, including increased homocysteine, flushing and itching, and significant drops in blood pressure. This highlights client safety and thorough assessments before recommending niacin supplementation.
  • Individual Health Factors –  I stress the importance of assessing methylation issues, high homocysteine levels, blood pressure irregularities, and other potential risk factors. By tailoring plans to each person’s unique profile, we as practitioners can mitigate potential adverse effects and optimize cardiovascular health outcomes.
  • Holistic Approach to Cardiovascular Health – I advocate for a holistic approach to cardiovascular health, beyond reliance on niacin therapy alone. As a practitioner, beyond basic labs, it is crucial to  look at advanced lipid panels, genetics, electrolyte balance, and lifestyle factors. By adopting a comprehensive strategy, we can address underlying health imbalances and empower clients to achieve lasting wellness.

 

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Ritamarie Loscalzo

Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a best-selling author and speaker known for her extensive knowledge, infectious energy, and inspirational message that encourages individuals to become their own best health advocate. She is an internationally recognized nutrition and health authority who specializes in using the wisdom of nature to restore hormone balance with a special emphasis on thyroid, adrenal and insulin imbalances. She founded the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology to empower health and nutrition practitioners to get to the root cause of health concerns by using functional assessments and natural therapeutics to balance the endocrine system, the body's master controller.

Dr. Ritamarie is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with Certification in Acupuncture and is a Diplomat of the American Clinical Nutrition Board. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has completed a 2-year, 500-hour Herbal Medicine Program at David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies and has a master's degree in Computer Science, which contributes to her skills as an ace problem solver.