From the Guidelines
Niacin (vitamin B3) is the most effective supplement to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, typically taken in doses of 1-3 grams daily, as recommended by the American Heart Association 1. When considering supplements to increase HDL levels, it's essential to prioritize those with the strongest evidence base.
- Niacin therapy can raise HDL by approximately 20% 1, making it a highly effective option.
- Fish oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids can modestly raise HDL while also lowering triglycerides, with recommended doses of 1-4 grams daily 1.
- Soluble fiber supplements like psyllium may help boost HDL levels, with recommended doses of 10-25 grams daily 1.
- Plant sterols and stanols can improve overall cholesterol profiles, including HDL, with recommended doses of 2-3 grams daily.
- Garlic supplements have shown some benefit for HDL in certain studies, with recommended doses of 600-1,200 mg daily. It's crucial to note that lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking, often have more significant impacts on HDL levels than supplements alone 1. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you're taking medications, as some supplements may interact with prescription drugs 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Niacin extended-release tablets are indicated to reduce elevated TC, LDL-C, Apo B and TG levels, and to increase HDL-C in patients with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia
- Niacin is a supplement that can increase HDL-C levels, as indicated in the drug label 2.
- The daily dosage of niacin extended-release tablets to increase HDL-C is 1000 mg to 2000 mg once daily at bedtime.
From the Research
Supplements that can Increase HDL
- Niacin is a supplement that can increase HDL cholesterol levels, with studies showing it can raise HDL by up to 25% 3, 4, 5
- The mechanism of action of niacin in raising HDL is by decreasing the fractional catabolic rate of HDL-apo AI without affecting the synthetic rates 4
- Niacin also selectively increases the plasma levels of Lp-AI (HDL subfraction without apo AII), a cardioprotective subfraction of HDL in patients with low HDL 4
- However, recent studies have shown that despite its effects on HDL-C, niacin does not decrease the incidence of CV events and may have significant adverse effects 5, 6
- Phytosterols, or plant sterols, are another supplement that can help control plasma cholesterol concentrations, but their effect on HDL is not as well established as niacin 7
- It is essential to note that the use of supplements to increase HDL should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as individual characteristics such as cardiovascular risk, lipid profile, and correct understanding of how to use these products should be assessed before starting treatment 7