Would someone please look at my numbers and tell me if there is a problem. My doc thinks I need medication. I don't take medication for anything and don't want to start. I'm just thinking of upping my flush Niacin as I've only been taking 500 mg. Any thoughts? Thanks

Total Cholesterol 238

HDL 95

LDL 131

Triglycerides 59

Pretty decent numbers given that superlative HDL of 95.
With that HDL there is little reason to up the niacin, it is working both barrels.

Though your total may look a bit high, your LDL is quite nice and unless you have heart disease or 4 grandparents who DIED of it, I think you can do without any drugs other than the niacin 500 mg.

Is your diet in any way remarkable?

Unless you are at a VERY high risk for heart disease, I personally see no reason for meds. There are people on here that woud love to have your numbers, especially your HDL and Trigs. Your ratio is like 2.5, which is fine. If it were me, I would keep on doing whatever your doing and ask the dr. why he/she feels you need meds. Yes, your TC is above the 200 mark, but your other numbers are fantastic.

Best wishes.....:wave:

Lenin and JJ, thank you for your thoughts.

Everyone in my family dies of heart problems - mother, father, grandparents. My father died at age 55. That said, I don't want to worry unnecessarily about hereditary factors as I think that in itself might lead to the very problem I'm anxious and worrying about. I am very conscientious about my health, certainly much more than anyone else in my family - past or present. I do eat low carb (for the past 6 years) and I attribute this to the more favorable HDL and Tri numbers.

The question is, since a hereditary factor does exist, should I up the Niacin or not? Meds are out of the question, I just won't go that route!

Ballady

No,


Do not up the niacin.

Well, your numbers are certainly great! No question about that. As far as niacin is concerned, I believe that you can safely increase it to 1000mg a day. That's what I've been taking, and my HDL is now up to 120. The choice is yours. But I wouldn't go beyond that without first consulting with your doctor.