The Safest Cholesterol Treatment

7/30/2019 The Safest Cholesterol Treatment

1/57

The Safest (and Cheapest) Cholesterol Treatment

The safest, most effective, and cheapest treatment for high cholesterol is a vitamin that costs 7 cents per pill,

according to a new report from Orthomolecular Medicine News Service (OMNS), a nonprofit research group in

Wichita, Kansas.

Vitamin B3also called niacin or nicotinic acidhas been safely used for 60 years to control cholesterol, with some

42,000 scientific papers in PubMed describing its benefits and effects.

Unlike statin drugs, which mainly reduce LDL cholesterol, niacin is a very safe, effective treatment foralllipid issues,

improving levels of both good and bad cholesterol and triglycerides, saysBradley Bale, MD, medical director of the

Heart Health Program for Grace Clinic in Lubbock, Texas.

One landmark study published inJournal of the American College of Cardiologyfound that at therapeutic doses,

niacin boosted HDL by up to 35 percent and cut triglycerides by as much as 50 percent.

Most remarkably, when the researchers tracked the 8,431 participantsall of whom had suffered heart attacks prior

to enrolling in the studyfor 15 years, those on niacin had a 26 percent lower risk for both heart attacks and strokes,

even after treatment was discontinued, compared to those taking a placebo.

Highly Effective, But Often Overlooked

Despite some 42,000 scientific papers in PubMed describing niacins effectiveness and medical uses, its remained

the ugly duckling of heart medicines, for a variety of reasons.

The simple answer is to follow the money, contends OMNS. Cholesterol-controlling drugs [such as statins] are

cash cows for the trillion-dollar-per-yearpharmaceutical industry, while theres no marketing push to persuade

medical providers to recommend a cheap, OTC remedy like niacin.

In his practice, Dr. Bale typically recommends niacin for the following patients, if medically appropriate:

People with high cholesterol who cant tolerate statin drugs. About 20 percent of statin users quit taking their

medication due to side effects.

Patients with complex lipid issues, such as low levels of heart-protective HDL (good) cholesterol and high

triglycerides (a type of blood fat).

People with inherited cholesterol disorders, such as elevated levels of lipoprotein (a), a type of cholesterol

that triples heart attack risk and does not respond to statins. Taking niacin can reduce lipoprotein (a) levels

by up to 40 percent, according to the European Atherosclerosis Society.

Patients whose cholesterol problems arent responding to statins. Several studies show that statins plus

niacin is more effective than statins alone.

A Guide to Cholesterol-Free Foods

Side Effects of Niacin

In doses typically used to control cholesterol the vitamin can have an annoying side effect known as the niacin flush,

a temporary and sometimes itchy or tingling redness of the skin that lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.
http://www.baledoneen.com/bradley-bale.htmlhttp://www.baledoneen.com/bradley-bale.htmlhttp://www.baledoneen.com/bradley-bale.htmlhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3782631http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3782631http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3782631http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/cholesterol-free-foods?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/cholesterol-free-foods?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/cholesterol-free-foods?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3782631http://www.baledoneen.com/bradley-bale.html


2/57

Doctors know that if they advise niacin, they get calls from patients complaining about flushing, particularly at first,

says Dr. Bale. However, this problem is harmless and can often be avoided by starting with a low dose thats

gradually increased. Patients who experience flushing initially will typically find that the problem disappears or greatly

diminishes over time.

While non-flush and extended-release forms of niacin are available, they appear to be less effective or may even

have dangerous side effects, Dr. Bale adds. There are two pathways through which the body can metabolize niacin,

and the one that doesnt cause flushing is more likely to harm the liver.

Dr. Bale advises avoiding non-flush or extended-release formulations. In addition, niacin should only be used under

the supervision of a healthcare provider, after a full discussion of the potential risks and benefits.

Like statins, niacin can cause muscle problems in some patients. It can also spark flare-ups in people with gout, and

may contribute to GI bleeding in patients with ulcers, cautions Dr. Bale. Any cholesterol treatment can cause side

effects, but compared to statins, niacin is relatively safe.

Migraine vs. Headache: How to Tell Them Apart

A Controversial Niacin Study

In March, results of a highly publicized study of Tredaptive, an experimental drug containing extended-release niacin

plus an anti-flushing drug called laropiprant, were interpreted by the media as showing that niacin may have

dangerous side effects.

In the study, 25,673 patients who were already being treated with statins were randomly divided into 2 groups. One

group took a statin drug plus Tredaptive and the other group received the same dose of statin along with a placebo.

Patients taking Treadaptive had higher rates of bleeding (2.5 percent vs. 1.9 percent) and infections (8 percent vs.6.6 percent), as well as higher rates of new onset diabetes (9.1 percent vs. 7.3 percent). Nor did the patients on the

experimental drug have lower rates of heart attack or stroke.

The study was halted prematurely, after four years, due to these problems and the maker of the experimental drug,

Merck, announced that it wouldnt be seeking FDA approval.

While media reports blamed these problems on niacin, Dr. Bale and other experts point out these adverse effects

havent been seen in numerous previous studies of the vitamin on its own, so the anti-flushing drug is the likely

culprit.

Niacin is being thrown under the bus when its an inexpensive, effective treatment thats been used very safely for

decades, says Dr. Bale. What this study is telling us is that this particular no-flush combination drug doesnt work

and can have significant side effects.

The Most Addictive Prescription Drugs on the Market
http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/migraine-vs-headache?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/migraine-vs-headache?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions?utm_medium=yahhphttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/migraine-vs-headache?utm_medium=yahhp


3/57

Prescription Drug Addictions

Just because pills are prescribed by a doctor and administered by a pharmacy, that doesnt mean they are safe for everyone. As

prescription numbers continue to rise, the chance for prescription drug abuse rises as well.

Learn about the most addictive prescription drugs, includingAdderall,Xanax,Codeine,amphetamines, and more. Click next to

begin learning about specific drugs that are commonly misused.



http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/xanaxhttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/xanaxhttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/xanaxhttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/codeinehttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/codeinehttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamineshttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/codeinehttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/xanaxhttp://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/prescription-drug-addictions/amphetamines


4/57



Types of Commonly Abused Drugs

The most widely abused pharmaceuticals fall into three categories:

Opioids: These produce a sought-after euphoric effect due to their pain killing abilities for short-term or chronic pain.

Central nervous system depressants: Also called tranquillizers and depressants, these include barbituates and benzodiazepines,

some of the most abused drugs. They have a calming, relaxing effect, like a warm blanket on the brain.

Stimulants: This class increases brain activity, thereby increasing alertness and energy.





5/57










6/57

Xanax

Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine prescribed to treat panic disorder and serious anxiety. It calms a person by depressing

his or her abnormal central nervous system. Those without a prescription may abuse the drug for its fast-acting sedating and

relaxing effects. The Drug Abuse Warning Network says Xanax is the most abused drug for these reasons.







7/57





some of the most abused drugs. They have a calming, relaxing effect, like a warm blanket on the brain. Stimulants: This class increases brain activity, thereby increasing alertness and energy.

Xanax





8/57

Klonopin & Valium

Much like Xanax, Klonopin and Valium are often misused for their sedative effects. These highs can feel similar to the

effects of alcohol, including feelings of drunkenness, talkativeness, and relaxation.

Due to these favorable traits, Klonopin, Valium, and other benzodiazepines can be extremely habit-forming, cause blackouts, and

even death by overdose. It is not uncommon for Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium to be taken in conjunction with other drugs.







9/57


10/57

Klonopin & Valium

Much like Xanax, Klonopin and Valium are often misused for their sedative effects. These highs can feel similarto the




photo courtesy of 51fifty, CC BY-SA 3.0

Oxycodone

Oxycodone, sold commonly as OxyContin andPercocet, is an opioid that changes the way the brain and central nervous system

respond to pain. It creates a euphoric, sedative effect.

Often likened to heroin, Oxycodone is prescribed by doctors about six million times a year. Because these pills can cost hundreds

of dollars a pill, addicts often have to steal to afford the habit.


11/57












12/57


Xanax




Klonopin & Valium






13/57


Oxycodone





Demerol & Darvocet

Like Oxycodone, Demerol and Darvocet are commonly abused painkillers. The danger in these, besides the immediate side

effects, is that users often develop a tolerance to the drugs effects and will increase their dosage. Often, this leads to painful and

possibly even violent withdrawal symptoms.


14/57

In 2010, Darvocet was pulled off the market in the United States because it was found to lead to heart complications in patients.










15/57




Xanax




Klonopin & Valium




16/57




Oxycodone






17/57


18/57












19/57


Xanax




Klonopin & Valium






20/57


Oxycodone





Demerol & Darvocet





21/57


Codeine (Purple Drank)

Codeine is often combined with other medications to reduce coughing and pain. This opiate is commonly found in prescription-

strength cough syrup. When consumed in high quantities, Codeine-based cough syrup has a sedative effect and can cause altered

levels of consciousness.

Codeine cough syrup is the base for purple drank or sizzurp, a concoction made with soda and candy that was popularized in

some early 2000s hip-hop music.


22/57

Amphetamines (Speed)

Simply known as speed, amphetamines are prescribed for conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and

narcolepsy where focus and wakefulness are needed to combat symptoms. However, they have been historically misused for their

energizing capabilities.

Its most commonly misused today under the brand name Adderall by those who need to skip on sleep, such as truck drivers,

college students working on deadlines, and shift workers.







23/57







Xanax





24/57

Klonopin & Valium






Oxycodone




25/57



Demerol & Darvocet




In 2010, Darvocet was pulled off the market in the United States because it was found to lead to heart complications in pa tients.


26/57











Its most commonly misused today under the brand nameAdderall by those who need to skip on sleep, such as truck drivers,



27/57

Ritalin

Similar to Adderall, Ritalin is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system by increasing levels of dopaminea hormone

that heightens attentionin the brain. As with other stimulants, it can be habit forming.

One reason Ritalin and other ADHD drugs are so commonly abused is their availability. In 2005, doctors prescribed Ritalin and

similar drugs more than 29 million times, and that number continues to rise.





28/57










29/57

Xanax




Klonopin & Valium







30/57

Oxycodone





Demerol & Darvocet






31/57











Its most commonly misused today under the brand nameAdderall by those who need to skip on sleep, such as truck drivers,



32/57

Ritalin

Similar to Adderall, Ritalin is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system by increasing levels of dopaminea hormone

that heightens attentionin the brain. As with other stimulants, it can be habit forming.

One reason Ritalin and other ADHD drugs are so commonly abused is their availability. In 2005, doctors prescribed Ritalin and

similar drugs more than 29 million times, and that number continues to rise.

Helping Loved Ones With Prescription Drug Addictions

If you suspect someone you love is abusing one of these medications, its important to get them help, which may include

counseling or rehabilitation.Anti-anxiety drug abuseis the most common type, especially among teens and people under the age

of 30.Learn more about addiction.

If youve discovered pills in your home, tryHealthlines Pill Identifierto determine what prescription medication it may be.
http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/anti-anxiety-drugs-and-abusehttp://www.healthline.com/galecontent/anti-anxiety-drugs-and-abusehttp://www.healthline.com/galecontent/anti-anxiety-drugs-and-abusehttp://www.healthline.com/galecontent/addiction-1http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/addiction-1http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/addiction-1http://www.healthline.com/pill-identifierhttp://www.healthline.com/pill-identifierhttp://www.healthline.com/pill-identifierhttp://www.healthline.com/pill-identifierhttp://www.healthline.com/pill-identifierhttp://www.healthline.com/galecontent/addiction-1http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/anti-anxiety-drugs-and-abuse


33/57

7 Tips for Better SleepOne of the best things you can do for your health is to get plentyof sound sleep. If you are having trouble getting enough rest, itmight be time to build a sleep sanctuary. Here's how.

How to Sleep

Trouble getting to bed at night? You're not alone. According to theNational Sleep

Foundation(NSF), more than 15 percent of American adults report problems sleeping.

Few things are more important to your overall health than good sleep. Luckily, a good

night's rest may be only a few short steps away. Cure your insomnia by redesigning

your room for maximum tranquility.

How to Sleep





http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bede


34/57


35/57



Choose the Right Color

The color you paint your bedroom walls and the colors you use to decorate can affect

the way you feel while youre in the bedroom and, ultimately, can affect your sleep.

Studies inCollege Student Journalhave shown that subdued shades of blue and green

can elicit feelings of relaxation, calmness, comfort, peace, and hope. Lighter colors such

as peach and tan may also help calm your senses before bedtime.
http://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-ofhttp://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-ofhttp://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-of


36/57


37/57







Get the Right Bed

You'll spend almost a third of your lifetime in bed, so it makes sense to commit the time

and money needed to make sure it meets your needs. There's no one-size-fits-all

mattress. Find a store that lets you test a mattress for 30 days before buying. Try


38/57

different pillows and select the right size mattress and level of firmness for you. If you're

waking up stiff or sore, try something else.

Turn Down the Light

It seems obvious, but making sure your room is dark enough is essential to a night of

quality sleep. Turn off or block all light sources, and close your curtains or blindseven

streetlights and moonlight can disrupt your sleep. If you need some light to fall asleep,

get a nightlight, dimmer, or switch-controlled lamp that will emit dim light.

How to Sleep


http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bede


39/57


40/57

Get the Right Bed






Turn Down the Light






41/57

Turn the Clock

Turning your alarm clock so that it faces away from your bed is a simple but effective

adjustment. The low light from a clock can affect your sleep and watching time slowly

tick by as you lie in bed will cause mental stress that may prevent you from falling

asleep.

How to Sleep







42/57







Get the Right Bed







43/57


44/57

Get Rid of the TV (and Computer)

Although it may be tempting to curl up and watch a movie from the comfort of your bed,

your bedroom should be reserved for sleep and intimacy. Electronics can affect both of

those. Move your TV into another room. If you use your bedroom as a home office,

make sure that when you put away your computer, its out of sight. While you're at it,

make sure there's no soft blue glow coming from your cell phone, Kindle, or iPod either.

How to Sleep





45/57










46/57


47/57

Turn the Clock




asleep.








48/57


49/57







Get the Right Bed







50/57


51/57


52/57

don't stress you out when you're getting ready for bed. An uncluttered room will lead to

an uncluttered mind, less distraction, and easier relaxation.

Clean the Air

Breathing easier will lead to better sleep. Open the windows regularly to let fresh air in

and get stale air out. You may want to put an air-purifying plant or a HEPA-filter air-

purifying system in your bedroom to rid the air of toxins and allergens. Finally, consider

aromatherapy mist your pillow with water infused with lavender, vanilla, sandalwood,

bergamot, or chamomile to soothe your senses before bedtime.


53/57

How to Sleep











http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-ofhttp://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-ofhttp://www.questia.com/library/1G1-123321897/relationship-between-color-and-emotion-a-study-ofhttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bedehttp://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=72c7dac36ef8bcb0852893d7c&id=c391fc9999&e=2645a3bede


54/57

Get the Right Bed






Turn Down the Light




55/57



Turn the Clock




asleep.





56/57




De-Clutter

Organize your closet and shelves so that there aren't piles of clothes and stacks of

books lying around your room. Move unfinished projects out of your bedroom so they

don't stress you out when you're getting ready for bed. An uncluttered room will lead to

an uncluttered mind, less distraction, and easier relaxation.


57/57

The Safest Cholesterol Treatment

Documents

Transcript of The Safest Cholesterol Treatment