Niacin, a B vitamin, has long been used to increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol. The reason is the higher your good cholesterol is, the lower your bad cholesterol or LDL will be.

If niacin can raise your good cholesterol, then eventually your bad cholesterol should start to lower. HDL acts like a chaser (so to speak) and chases all the bad cholesterol hanging out in your blood system to your liver.

Niacin (nicotinic acid) is a B vitamin that's used by your body to turn carbohydrates into energy. Niacin also helps keep your nervous system, digestive system, skin, hair and eyes healthy. That's why niacin is often a part of a daily multivitamin, though most people get enough niacin from the food they eat.

If you are considering using niacin to control your cholesterol, have your doctor prescribe it. Using the niacin on the shelf may not be a high enough does to help you, expecially if you are not getting enough in your diet.

Niacin is found in many foods, like poultry, fish, nuts, dairy products, lean meats, eggs, bread and cereal. Niacin is also available in a prescription or over-the-counter form. However, Niacin has side effects if taken in very large forms. Please consult your doctor before starting a niacin regiment.