As we age, our bodies go through several changes, including a decrease in cellular metabolism, which can lead to several health problems. One of the most important factors involved in cellular metabolism is the molecule Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is a coenzyme that plays a critical role in several metabolic pathways, including cellular respiration and DNA repair. NAD+ levels decrease with age, which can lead to several health problems, including neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. Therefore, boosting NAD+ levels may be an effective strategy for promoting healthy aging.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a supplement that has gained attention for its ability to boost NAD+ levels. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside, its mechanism of action, and the scientific evidence supporting its use.
What is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a natural form of vitamin B3, also known as niacin. NR is a precursor of NAD+, meaning it can be converted into NAD+ within the body. It was first identified in 2004 and has since gained attention as a potential NAD+ boosting supplement.
Mechanism of Action
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) works by increasing NAD+ levels in cells. NAD+ levels decrease with age due to several factors, including decreased biosynthesis and increased consumption by enzymes involved in cellular metabolism. NR boosts NAD+ levels by bypassing the rate-limiting steps of NAD+ biosynthesis, making it a more efficient way of increasing NAD+ levels than other NAD+ precursors.
Benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Several studies have suggested that Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) supplementation may have several health benefits, including:
Improves Muscle Function
Aging is associated with a decline in muscle function, including muscle mass, strength, and endurance. Studies have shown that NR supplementation may improve muscle function in aging individuals. A study published in Cell Metabolism showed that NR supplementation increased muscle strength and endurance in elderly mice, suggesting that NR supplementation may also have similar effects in humans.
Increases Energy
NAD+ plays a critical role in cellular respiration, the process by which cells convert nutrients into energy. Decreased NAD+ levels can lead to reduced energy production and fatigue. Studies have shown that NR supplementation can increase NAD+ levels and improve energy metabolism. A study published in Science showed that NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels and mitochondrial function in mice, resulting in increased energy expenditure and improved physical performance.
Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases
NAD+ plays a critical role in DNA repair, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the genome. Decreased NAD+ levels can lead to DNA damage and mutations, which can increase the risk of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown that NR supplementation may protect against neurodegenerative diseases by increasing NAD+ levels and improving DNA repair. A study published in Nature showed that NR supplementation improved mitochondrial function and protected against neurodegeneration in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.
May Improve Cardiovascular Health
NAD+ plays a critical role in regulating several processes involved in cardiovascular health, including blood pressure, lipid metabolism, and vascular function. Studies have suggested that NR supplementation may improve cardiovascular health by increasing NAD+ levels and improving these processes. A study published in Cell Metabolism showed that NR supplementation improved blood pressure and lipid metabolism in a mouse model of metabolic syndrome
May Help with Weight Management
NR supplementation may also have a role in weight management. Studies have shown that NR supplementation can increase energy expenditure and promote weight loss. A study published in Science showed that NR supplementation increased energy expenditure and reduced weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. Another study published in Nature Communications showed that NR supplementation reduced weight gain and improved glucose tolerance in obese mice.
May Improve Cognitive Function
NAD+ levels decrease with age, which can lead to decreased cognitive function and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have suggested that NR supplementation may improve cognitive function by increasing NAD+ levels and improving mitochondrial function. A study published in Cell Reports showed that NR supplementation improved cognitive function in aged mice, suggesting that NR may have similar effects in humans.
Scientific Evidence Supporting the Use of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) in boosting NAD+ levels and promoting healthy aging. A study published in Nature Communications showed that NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels and improved glucose tolerance in obese mice. Another study published in Science showed that NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels and mitochondrial function in mice, resulting in increased energy expenditure and improved physical performance.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Nature Communications showed that NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels and improved muscle function in healthy elderly individuals. The study found that NR supplementation increased muscle strength and endurance and reduced muscle fatigue compared to placebo.
Another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism showed that NR supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in obese men. The study found that NR supplementation improved insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism compared to placebo.
Side Effects of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is generally well-tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported in clinical trials. However, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a supplement that has gained attention for its ability to boost NAD+ levels and promote healthy aging. NR supplementation may have several health benefits, including improving muscle function, increasing energy, protecting against neurodegenerative diseases, improving cardiovascular health, and promoting weight management. Scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of NR in boosting NAD+ levels and promoting healthy aging, with no significant adverse effects reported in clinical trials. If you’re interested in trying Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider first.
Sources:
Braidy, N., Berg, J., Clement, J., Khorshidi, F., Poljak, A., Jayasena, T., … & Sachdev, P. (2020). Role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide and Related Precursors as Therapeutic Targets for Age-Related Degenerative Diseases: Rationale, Biochemistry, Pharmacokinetics, and Outcomes. Antioxidants & redox signaling, 33(11), 921-943.
Canto, C., & Auwerx, J. (2012). Targeting sirtuin 1 to improve metabolism: all you need is NAD+. Pharmacological reviews, 64(1), 166-187.
Dellinger, R. W., Santos, S. R., Morris, M., Evans, M., & Alminana, D. (2017). Safety and pharmacokinetics of Nicotinamide Riboside in healthy obese men. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 102(3), 830
