A recent study suggests that individuals with elevated levels of niacin, also known as vitamin B3, in their blood may face an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Excessive niacin, found in fortified foods and supplements, may lead to inflammation of blood vessels, contributing to cardiovascular events.
Researchers, led by Stanley Hazen at the Cleveland Clinic, collected blood samples from over 3000 adults in the US and Europe, analyzing metabolites to identify potential risk factors. The study revealed that those with higher levels of a niacin-related metabolite called 4PY had a 60% higher likelihood of experiencing cardiac events. Further experiments confirmed that 4PY induces inflammation in blood vessels, a known contributor to heart disease.
While niacin is commonly added to fortified foods, such as cereals, and is popular in supplements due to suggested anti-ageing benefits, the study emphasizes the importance of moderation. Historically, high-dose niacin was prescribed for cardiovascular protection, but the research underscores potential risks associated with excessive intake.
Jenny Jia at Northwestern University cautions that the study primarily focused on individuals of European ancestry, and its applicability to diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds remains uncertain. This highlights the need for a balanced approach to vitamin consumption, emphasizing that sometimes, “you can have too much of a good thing.”
