New research suggests that high levels of niacin, also known as vitamin B3, may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Niacin, an essential micronutrient found in fortified flours and cereals, is known for its ability to lower LDL cholesterol. However, despite this positive impact on heart health, the risk of CVD remains high. To unravel this complex relationship, NHLBI-funded researchers collected blood samples from more than 1,000 individuals and predicted their risk of CVD events independent of traditional risk factors. We screened the levels of circulating small molecules that could be used.
They found that two breakdown products from excess niacin intake, known as 2PY and 4PY, were significantly associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other adverse cardiac events. The researchers also showed in follow-up mouse studies that 4PY directly causes vascular inflammation, which over time can lead to vascular damage and atherosclerosis.
From 2017 to 2020, total niacin intake in the United States from a combination of whole foods, fortified foods, and supplements averaged 48 mg/day, more than three times the recommended daily intake.
“This study raises the question of whether continued mandates for fortifying flour and grains with niacin are justified,” the study authors said.
This research natural medicine.
