Having diabetes may reduce the heart-protective benefits of “good cholesterol,” also known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), according to a recent article published by Reuters. However, taking the drug niacin may help restore those benefits.
Researchers compared HDL samples from 10 healthy adults and 33 people with Type 2 diabetes. All participants were taking bad-cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins. They found that benefits, which protect the blood vessels, were “substantially impaired” in diabetics.
When given the drug and compared to a group given a placebo, those treated with niacin had increased HDL levels and improved vascular function. Researchers note further study is needed.
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