Glossary
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found throughout your body that is a key component of cell membranes. It is mainly made by the liver and other tissues, but cholesterol can be absorbed from dietary sources.
“Flush-free” niacin
“Flush-free” types of niacin formulas that contain ingredients such as inositol hexaniacinate, inositol hexanicotinate, and nicotinamide may not cause flushing, but these types of niacin have not been shown to have any significant effect on cholesterol levels.
Flushing
Flushing is a term used to describe a typically harmless sensation of temporary itching and tingling, feelings of warmth and headache that commonly occur when taking niacin.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
These particles carry cholesterol back to the liver for removal from the body. HDL is considered good cholesterol. A desirable level of HDL cholesterol is ≥60 mg/dL.
Liver function tests
Liver function tests help detect, evaluate, and monitor liver disease or damage.
Lipoprotein
Lipoprotein particles are made up of cholesterol and protein and help move cholesterol through the bloodstream.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
LDL is the major type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the bloodstream throughout the body. LDL is considered bad cholesterol. An optimal level of LDL cholesterol is <100 mg/dL.
Niacin, or nicotinic acid
- Niacin, or nicotinic acid, is a type of B vitamin that aids in the function of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. When used under the care and monitoring of a healthcare professional, niacin or nicotinic acid is clinically proven to help support healthy cholesterol.
Statin
Statins are drugs that can lower your cholesterol. They work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol.
Stenosis
Stenosis means constriction or narrowing. A build-up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances over time can cause stenosis of blood vessels.
Total cholesterol
Total cholesterol is an approximate measure of all the cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. An ideal level of total cholesterol is <200 mg/dL.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the chemical form in which most fat exists in food as well as in the body. A normal level of triglycerides is <150 mg/dL.
Vasodilation
Vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels resulting from relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls.






