Niacin and cholesterol have been closely linked for decades, with vitamin B3 often promoted for its potential heart health benefits—especially its ability to improve cholesterol numbers. But not everyone benefits equally, and in some cases, it may do more harm than good. If you’re considering niacin for cholesterol support, here’s what you need to know first.
How Niacin Affects Cholesterol
In high doses, niacin can positively impact lipid profiles. It has been shown to:
Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
Lower triglycerides
Raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol—often more effectively than other treatments
These effects help explain the long-standing interest in the link between niacin and cholesterol, especially in cardiovascular research. Some studies have shown HDL increases of 15–35% with therapeutic niacin dosing [Cleveland Clinic].
But Niacin Isn’t for Everyone
To achieve cholesterol-lowering effects, niacin must be taken in doses far beyond the daily recommended intake. We’re talking about 1,000–2,000 mg per day—well above the 14–16 mg usually needed for basic metabolic functions.
At these levels, side effects become more likely and potentially more serious.
1. Elevated Liver Enzymes
Extended-release forms of niacin are more likely to affect the liver. Prolonged use can lead to elevated liver enzymes, inflammation, or even liver damage. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements warns that liver function must be monitored regularly during high-dose niacin therapy.
2. Increased Risk of Gout
Niacin can raise uric acid levels by interfering with kidney excretion, increasing the risk of gout flare-ups. If you have a history of gout or elevated uric acid, niacin may not be the right choice for you..
3. The Flushing Effect—Misunderstood?
Niacin flushing—a warm, red sensation often felt on the face and upper body—is one of the most well-known side effects. But contrary to popular belief, it’s not dangerous and may actually indicate a healthy vascular response. Flushing is caused by prostaglandin D2, which dilates blood vessels and increases circulation.
Some experts argue that this natural vasodilation may be beneficial. Non-flushing forms of niacin, such as inositol hexanicotinate, often don’t show the same cholesterol benefits.
Pro tip:Gradually increasing your dose can help minimize flushing. Begin with a low dose—around 50 to 100 mg daily—and continue at that level until flushing subsides. Once your body adjusts and the flush response diminishes, slowly increase the dose in small increments. Only move to the next dose level after the previous one no longer causes noticeable flushing.
When Niacin May Be Helpful
While its popularity has declined in recent years, niacin and cholesterol remain closely tied in certain clinical cases. Niacin might still be useful for:
Individuals who are statin-intolerant
People with very low HDL and high triglycerides
Certain metabolic cases under physician supervision
However, large clinical trials like AIM-HIGH and HPS2-THRIVE have shown minimal added benefit when niacin is used alongside statins—and a higher risk of side effects. So its use should be considered carefully.
When to Avoid Niacin
People with liver disease
Anyone with a history of gout
Individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes (as niacin may worsen blood sugar control)
Patients already on statins or fibrates, due to increased liver and muscle risk
⚠️ Important for People with Diabetes:
High-dose niacin may raise blood sugar levels by reducing insulin sensitivity and increasing glucose production in the liver.If you have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, talk to your doctor before starting niacin. Blood sugar may need to be monitored and medications adjusted.
Smart Supplementing Starts with Knowledge
Niacin is a powerful nutrient—but not without its drawbacks. If you’re considering using it for cholesterol management, consult your doctor and monitor your liver health closely.
Looking for safer supplement options tailored to your needs? Visit our ToothWiz Vitamins Dispensary for high-quality, professional-grade products.
As we age, our nutritional needs shift. While many supplements offer benefits, some may do more harm than good. One of the most overlooked concerns? Vitamin A supplements over age 50.
Are Vitamin A Supplements Over 50 Risky?
Preformed vitamin A—like retinol and retinyl palmitate—is fat-soluble and stored in the liver. In older adults, this form can accumulate over time, increasing the risk of toxicity. Side effects may include:
Headaches and dizziness
Fatigue, nausea, and blurred vision
Dry skin and hair loss
Bone weakening and increased fracture risk
According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, too much preformed vitamin A is especially concerning for people over 50 due to decreased liver and kidney efficiency.
Vitamin A Forms: Preformed vs. Provitamin A
Preformed vitamin A is found in animal-based foods and many supplements. It’s absorbed quickly and can lead to overdosing if combined with fortified foods or multivitamins.
Provitamin A carotenoids (like beta-carotene in carrots or spinach) are safer. Your body converts only what it needs, reducing toxicity risk. The Healthline guide on vitamin Aconfirms that plant-based sources are ideal for older adults.
Safe Vitamin A Intake for Adults Over 50
U.S. Tolerable Upper Limit: 3,000 µg RAE (around 10,000 IU/day)
UK Guidelines: Suggest no more than 1,500 µg/day for adults over 50 due to bone fragility concerns
Keep in mind: many cod liver oils, multivitamins, and fortified cereals may contain more than you realize. Always add up your total daily intake.
Practical Tips to Stay Safe
Skip supplements with retinol or retinyl palmitate
Focus on colorful fruits and veggies—carrots, kale, sweet potatoes
Check supplement labels carefully
Opt for beta-carotene instead of preformed vitamin A
Consult a healthcare provider before supplementing
Better Supplement Options for 50+
Some nutrients support healthy aging without the risks of preformed vitamin A:
Vitamin A is essential—but more isn’t always better. If you’re over 50, aim to get your A from food and avoid preformed vitamin A supplements unless advised by a doctor. Want more curious facts about health and aging? Check out our post: Top 10 Supplements You Didn’t Know Were Beneficial for Oral Health
Bottom line: Choose wisely. For vitamin A supplements over age 50, less is more—and plant-based sources are best.
What do diamonds, beaver teeth, and your own mouth have in common? Strength. In fact, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body—even harder than bone. But despite its strength, enamel is surprisingly vulnerable to everyday wear and tear. In this article, we’ll explore tooth enamel remineralization—what it is, why it matters, and how to naturally support your teeth’s strongest defense.
Made mostly of hydroxyapatite (a crystalline calcium phosphate), enamel covers each tooth like a protective shell. It stands up to decades of chewing, biting, grinding, and acidic assaults. But once it’s worn down or eroded, your body can’t make more of it.
Enamel Can’t Regenerate—But It Can Remineralize
Here’s the twist: while your body can’t grow new enamel cells, it can repair weakened enamel through a process called tooth enamel remineralization. Saliva, trace minerals, and a healthy oral environment work together to deposit lost minerals back into the enamel surface, making it more resistant to decay.
However, remineralization has its limits. Once the enamel is physically worn away or cracked, no natural process can rebuild it.
Natural Ways to Support Enamel Health (Without Fluoride)
Remineralization is a subtle, ongoing process, and your daily habits make a huge difference. Here’s how to support your enamel—without relying on fluoride:
Eat mineral-rich foods like leafy greens, seaweed, nuts, and seeds.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks such as soda and citrus juices that erode enamel.
Stay well-hydrated to support healthy saliva flow.
Rinse, don’t brush immediately after acidic meals—give enamel time to recover.
Oil pulling with coconut oil may help support oral microbiome balance.
The Role of Ozone in Enamel Protection
One fascinating area of research involves ozone therapy in dentistry, which may help make enamel more decay-resistant. Ozone can neutralize harmful bacteria and create a more favorable environment for remineralization. Curious how that works? Check out our post on ozone therapy for the full story.
Wrap-Up: Protect Your Armor
Tooth enamel remineralization is your teeth’s first line of defense and one of nature’s most impressive biological processes. But it’s not invincible. Understanding the difference between regeneration and remineralization is key to keeping your teeth healthy for life—naturally.
What if your floss could do more than clean your teeth?
Let’s be honest: if flossing starts measuring stress, it might max out before you even open the package.
Well, scientists at Tufts University have created something new—a dental floss stress tracker that can check your stress levels using your saliva. This small but smart device might help you understand how your body is feeling, all while you’re taking care of your oral health.
What is a dental floss stress tracker?
This high-tech floss pick collects a little saliva as you clean between your teeth. Inside the handle is a sensor that measures cortisol, the hormone your body releases when you’re stressed. In just 10 minutes, it gives a simple reading that shows if your stress level is high, low, or somewhere in between.
Why is this important?
Stress can affect your heart, sleep, immune system, and more. Most people don’t realize how stressed they are until it becomes a problem. This easy-to-use floss could be a helpful daily check-in. It’s a great example of how simple tools can support better health.
Looking ahead
Researchers believe this smart floss might someday check for other things too—like signs of illness or blood sugar levels. For now, it’s a powerful new way to take better care of yourself using tools you already know.
Your mouth might be trying to tell you something—long before you feel sick or get diagnosed. In fact, early signs of nutritional deficiencies often show up in the oral cavity, and they’re easy to miss unless you know what to look for.
Let’s explore what your mouth could be saying about your health—and what to do about it.
Many people are unaware that oral signs of nutritional deficiencies often appear before any blood test shows an issue. Dentists and hygienists frequently spot warning signs that can point to broader health concerns.
1. Cracks at the corners of your mouth (Angular cheilitis)
This painful condition is more than just dry lips. Cracked corners of the mouth are often associated with vitamin B2 (riboflavin) or iron deficiency, and are more common in individuals with weakened immunity or poor absorption.
Harvard Health notes that B-complex vitamins are essential for cell repair—including in the tissues of the mouth.
2. Burning tongue or smooth, glossy surface
If your tongue feels like it’s burning or appears unusually smooth, you may be low in vitamin B12, folate, or iron. These nutrients are critical for red blood cell production and nerve health.
This can happen even if your blood levels appear “normal,” especially if you’re older or have absorption issues.
3. Gum Problems as Oral Signs of Nutritional Deficiencies
While bleeding gums are commonly blamed on brushing too hard or poor flossing habits, they can also point to a vitamin C deficiency—yes, scurvy still exists in milder forms today.
If your gums remain inflamed despite good hygiene, your immune system (and nutrient status) may need support.
4. Recurring mouth ulcers or canker sores
Persistent mouth ulcers could suggest low levels of zinc, iron, or B vitamins. These minerals play a major role in immune defense and tissue repair.
Zinc deficiency is especially common in older adults and can impair healing throughout the body—not just in the mouth.
5. Brain fog, fatigue, and oral signs? They’re connected.
A sore tongue or frequent mouth sores might feel like a local issue, but they often reflect broader health concerns. When combined with fatigue, brain fog, or digestive discomfort, it’s time to look deeper.
What You Can Do:
Talk to your healthcare provider about testing for common deficiencies.
Use a professional-grade supplement when needed. Avoid cheap, low-absorption forms found at drugstores.
If you’re unsure where to begin, I recommend checking out my personalized wellness page:
👉 ToothWizVitamins
It offers access to over 20,000 health products through Fullscript, with my top picks for immune and oral support.
Final Thoughts on Recognizing Oral Signs of Deficiencies
The mouth doesn’t lie. It’s one of the first places nutrient imbalances show up—often before more serious symptoms arise. Paying attention could give you a head start on protecting your long-term health.
Staying aware of oral signs of nutritional deficiencies can help you take proactive steps—before symptoms escalate into more serious conditions.
Why Humans Can’t Make Vitamin C: The Missing Gene (GULO)
Did you know most animals can produce their own vitamin C? Humans, guinea pigs, and certain bats are rare exceptions — and the reason why might surprise you. It all comes down to a little gene called L-gulonolactone oxidase (GULO). This gene is essential for converting glucose into vitamin C—a crucial nutrient for our health. Millions of years ago, humans, along with a select few other species, lost this gene. The prevailing theory suggests that our ancestors thrived on diets rich in vitamin C from fruits and vegetables, making the gene redundant. However, as modern diets often fall short in providing adequate amounts of this vital nutrient, the absence of GULO has become increasingly relevant. This article explains why humans can’t make vitamin C and how liposomal C offers a smart solution.
Why This Matters Today
Vitamin C is not just a trendy supplement; it plays several critical roles in our bodies:
Collagen Production: Essential for maintaining healthy skin, joints, and gums.
Immune Function: Supports your body’s defense mechanisms against illnesses.
Antioxidant Defense: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
In today’s fast-paced world filled with stress and less-than-ideal eating habits, many people fail to get enough vitamin C. Even without experiencing full-blown scurvy—characterized by fatigue and bleeding gums—low levels of vitamin C can silently affect overall wellness. Since humans can’t make vitamin C, it’s essential to get adequate amounts from your diet and supplements.
Why Humans Can’t Make Vitamin C: A Deeper Dive into the GULO Gene
Let’s dive deeper into the curious case of the GULO gene. This diminutive piece of genetic code—by the name of L-gulonolactone oxidase—served as our ancestors’ key to synthesizing vitamin C from glucose. Imagine a time when fresh fruits and vibrant vegetables were abundant, and our bodies didn’t have to rely on external sources for this essential nutrient. However, over millions of years, human evolution took a twist: we lost the ability to produce vitamin C due to mutations in the GULO gene. It seems our diet was so rich in vitamin C that our bodies collectively decided, “Hey, we can skip this step!”
Today, however, it’s a different story. Our modern diets often lack sufficient vitamin C, pushing us into a nutritional corner where we can no longer rely on internal synthesis. The absence of GULO makes us dependent on dietary sources or supplements to meet our needs.
This genetic quirk isn’t just a trivial fact; it has real implications for health:
Dietary Deficiency: Many people today consume fewer fruits and vegetables than recommended, making deficiencies commonplace.
Vulnerable Populations: Certain groups—like those under stress, elderly individuals, or those with specific dietary restrictions—are at an even greater risk of inadequate vitamin C intake.
Ongoing Research: Scientists continue exploring how this missing gene affects not only individual health but also broader public health issues related to nutrition.
Why Liposomal Vitamin C Is Superior
When it comes to vitamin C, not all supplements are created equal. While traditional ascorbic acid may have been the go-to option for years, many health enthusiasts are turning to Liposomal Vitamin C for a reason. But why is it considered superior?
Standard vitamin C supplements often face a significant hurdle: absorption. The body has a limit on how much ascorbic acid it can effectively absorb at one time, especially at higher doses. This can lead to gastrointestinal distress—a fancy way of saying you might find yourself making frequent trips to the restroom.
Enter liposomal vitamin C, which utilizes cutting-edge liposomal encapsulation technology. This method creates tiny fat-based “bubbles” (liposomes) that encapsulate the vitamin C, allowing it to be absorbed more effectively into your bloodstream without the gastrointestinal side effects associated with larger doses of regular vitamin C.
Better Absorption
For those who struggle with absorption issues—perhaps due to digestive conditions or simply aging—liposomal vitamin C can be a game-changer. These liposomes protect the vitamin during its journey through your digestive tract, ensuring that more of it gets delivered where it’s needed most: inside your cells.
Higher Bioavailability
Liposomal vitamin C boasts significantly higher bioavailability compared to traditional forms. This means you can achieve therapeutic levels without needing to take massive doses that may upset your stomach. Since humans can’t make vitamin C, this enhanced delivery system is a real advantage for maintaining optimal health.
No More GI Distress: Many users report feeling more energized and experiencing fewer digestive issues when switching to liposomal forms.
Effective Immune Support: Liposomal vitamin C aids in bolstering your immune system efficiently—helping you stay resilient against colds and other illnesses.
“Liposomal Vitamin C isn’t just a trend; it’s an evolution in how we think about nutrient absorption!”
Practical Tips for Maintaining Healthy Vitamin C Levels
Incorporate Vitamin C-rich Foods: Bell peppers, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, and antioxidant-packed berries.
Snack Smart: Swap processed snacks for fruits like strawberries or apples.
Opt for Quality Supplements: Liposomal vitamin C offers superior absorption.
Consider Timing: Consuming vitamin C with meals may enhance absorption.
Manage Stress Levels: Stress can deplete vitamin C, so practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga.
“A small change in diet can lead to significant benefits in wellness—so let’s get creative with our vitamin C sources!”
Final Thoughts
While nature once equipped us to produce our own vitamin C, modern life requires us to be proactive. Since humans can’t make vitamin C, it’s essential to be mindful of both dietary sources and the quality of any supplements you use.
Take Action Now
Want to make sure you’re choosing the best liposomal supplements? Download my free Smart Guide to Liposomal Supplements to learn what to look for, which nutrients benefit most from liposomal delivery, and how to maximize absorption. Click here to get your free guide now and take the guesswork out of supplementation!
Already know what you want? Explore my carefully curated Fullscript supplement catalog to find professional-grade liposomal vitamin C and other health essentials.
We’ve all woken up, taken a deep breath, and been greeted by a not-so-fresh surprise—morning breath. It’s the kind of wake-up call that leaves you wondering if you mistakenly brushed your teeth with a garlic clove instead of toothpaste! While it’s a universal experience, the science behind morning breath remains a mystery for many. Why does it happen, and more importantly, how can we tackle it?
Morning breath is primarily caused by a reduction in saliva production while we sleep. Saliva plays a crucial role in our oral health; it helps wash away food particles and neutralizes harmful bacteria. When nighttime hits, our saliva production decreases significantly, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. As these bacteria feast on leftover food particles in your mouth, they produce sulfur compounds that contribute to that less-than-pleasant odor.
Interestingly, factors like diet can also play a role in bad breath in the morning. Consuming sugary or acidic foods before bed may further upset the delicate balance of bacteria in your mouth. Keeping an eye on what you eat may just be the ticket to fresher mornings. Sometimes, however, morning breath may indicate deeper issues—like chronic halitosis or even sinus problems. If you’re consistently experiencing bad breath regardless of your oral hygiene routine, it might be time to chat with your dentist about potential underlying causes.
The good news? There are multiple ways to combat morning breath effectively! From staying hydrated and practicing nasal breathing to incorporating oil pulling into your routine or consuming probiotics for oral health—small changes can yield big results. It’s all about empowering ourselves with knowledge and effective dental hygiene habits.
Understanding the Causes of Bad Morning Breath
Understanding the causes of morning breath requires a closer look at the intricate dance between our mouths and bacteria during those nightly hours. As we sleep, our bodies enter a state of rest—and so does our saliva production, which plummets significantly. This reduction in saliva creates a dry environment that is less capable of washing away food particles and neutralizing harmful bacteria.
Bacteria that thrive in your mouth can ramp up their activity during the night. While some bacteria are harmless, others produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) as they digest leftover food particles. These VSCs are primarily responsible for that morning breath aroma.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water throughout the day can exacerbate saliva reduction at night. A study indicated that dehydration can lead to a 50% decrease in salivary flow, paving the way for bacterial growth.
Mouth Breathing: If you’re a nighttime mouth breather—often due to nasal congestion—you may be setting yourself up for worse breath.
Dietary Choices: What you snack on before bed matters! Foods high in sugar or acidity can alter your mouth’s pH and invite bad bacteria.
Moreover, there’s growing research into how gut health may connect with oral health. The gut microbiome can affect our overall health, including our breath. For instance, an imbalance in gut bacteria might lead to halitosis that manifests itself more prominently when you wake up.
“Regular check-ups and open communication with your dentist are key to maintaining not just fresh breath but also overall oral health.”
When Morning Breath Signals Bigger Health Issues
Chronic Halitosis
If you find yourself constantly battling bad breath in the morning, it could be a sign of chronic halitosis. This condition is often linked to factors like poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or even systemic health issues.
Gum Disease
One of the most common culprits behind persistent bad breath is gum disease. This bacterial infection affects the tissues surrounding your teeth, leading to serious consequences if left untreated.
Sinus Problems
If you wake up with morning breath and nasal congestion or post-nasal drip, sinus infections or allergies might be the cause.
Dental Hygiene Habits
Are you following through on essentials like brushing and flossing? Neglecting these can lead to plaque and chronic halitosis.
Dietary Influences
Foods rich in sugar and acid can affect oral bacteria and promote odor. Limiting these may improve your breath quality.
“Listen to your body! Persistent morning breath could be more than a nuisance; it might be an early warning sign requiring professional insight.”
Proven Ways to Stop Morning Breath Naturally
Stay Hydrated: Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to support saliva production.
Brush and Floss at Night: This removes plaque and reduces bacteria growth overnight.
Mouthwash: Use alcohol-free options with cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils.
Tongue Scraping: Clean your tongue gently from back to front to remove odor-causing bacteria.
Avoid Late-Night Snacks: Especially those with sugar or acid content.
Essential Oils: Peppermint and tea tree oils fight bacteria. Use as rinses or in diffusers.
Baking Soda Toothpaste: Helps neutralize odors and clean teeth naturally.
Mouthwash: Choose alcohol-free options to prevent dry mouth.
Tongue Cleaners: A simple tool that can remove odor-causing residue.
“Supportive products play an essential role in oral health—pair them with good habits, and you’ve got a winning combo!”
Morning breath is a common yet manageable condition with some understanding and proactive care. By addressing its root causes and adapting effective dental hygiene habits, you can enjoy waking up feeling refreshed every day.
Want a printable checklist of ways to beat morning breath? Download it here.
Dr. Richard Walicki is a dentist practicing general and cosmetic dentistry. While we hope you find the information contained herein interesting and useful, this blog is for informational purposes and is not intended to diagnose any oral disease. Dental conditions should be evaluated by your dental health professional or a qualified specialist.
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