Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, has a scientifically established role in cardiovascular health, primarily due to its effects on lipid metabolism. Niacin has been shown in multiple clinical studies to increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and reduce triglyceride levels. Historically, high-dose niacin therapy was used to treat hyperlipidemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Clinical trials such as the Coronary Drug Project (1975) demonstrated a reduction in recurrent myocardial infarction with niacin treatment.

However, more recent large-scale studies (such as AIM-HIGH and HPS2-THRIVE) have questioned the benefits of niacin supplementation for cardiovascular outcomes when used alongside statin therapy, showing little added benefit and increased side effects. Niacin is not typically used to treat "heart weakness" (a vague term that may refer to heart failure), and there is limited evidence supporting its use for improving cardiac contractility or direct myocardial function.

In summary, while the use of vitamin B3 (niacin) for improving lipid profiles and potentially reducing cardiovascular risk is supported by scientific evidence, its role in directly treating heart "weakness" or heart failure is not well-founded. The evidence is moderate (rated 3) due to shifting perspectives based on newer clinical trials and evolving treatment guidelines.

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