Open blood vessels wider by giving niacin. Give it early in

the morning, upon rising, as soon as the feet are set on the floor.

Keep it at the bedside, use small capsules or tablets and combine

this chore with water drinking. The water should not be cold and

should have nothing added to make it a beverage. (Drinking

water within minutes of sitting upright may also move the bowels

soon.) A 250 mg. time-release niacin tablet (see Sources) is a

good choice. The elderly have little side ef

fects. Even the niacin-flush, which reddens the face and neck is

welcomed since it gives a sensation of warmth.

The flush is intensified by giving hot liquids or acids (even

vitamin C) to drink. The flush is reduced by giving cold liquids.

The opening of blood vessels by niacin only lasts a few hours. If

you see it has a good effect on your loved one, give several a

day. Do not use a prescription variety, since they are polluted

with heavy metals; use only the brand in Sources, or a brand that

you have tested pure. You can freely experiment with niacin to

find the best dosage and variety; it is not toxic in this amount; but

the size of the tablet should not turn it into an unpleasant chore.

Reduce it if it seems too large to swallow. Don't cut tablets in

half, the rough edges can scratch the throat.

Hawthorn berry is an herb that opens blood vessels, particularly

to the heart. Carefully watch the effect on blood pressure

when using it.

Food mold, particularly ergot,

has the opposite effect of

niacin. Brain blood vessels are

made narrower, cutting down

the oxygen supply. Ergot is a

common contaminant of grains:

don't provide rye or

pumpernickel breads or crackers.

Don't provide wine or

other alcoholic beverages; they

are too contaminated with ergot

and aflatoxin. Narrowing

the blood vessels in the brain

can lead to stroke. If you notice

an attack of dementia coming,

try a niacin tablet (100 mg, not

timed release) immediately.

Alcoholic beverages

contain ergot and aflatoxin.

Add vitamin C (1/8 tsp.) upon

opening and wait 10 minutes

for it to act.