Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is an, until recently, little known form of vitamin B3 that is found in small, trace amounts in milk. Scientists have discovered that the body converts this vitamin into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) which plays an important role in battling the effects of aging.
NAD+ is called a coenzyme and is found in all living cells. It plays a significant role in metabolizing energy and maintaining cell function in the body. As people get older their levels of NAD+ fall significantly and this has been shown to drive the aging process. Taking an NR supplement can help improve NAD+ levels in the body and is seen as an effective method to slow the effects of aging.
Research has been undertaken in animals, and there are also human clinical trials, that are looking at the effects of NR and NAD+ and, while no definitive results have yet been established, studies have shown that NR supplements are safe to use. Following are some of the potential benefits:
• Supports Mitochondrial Function – the deterioration of mitochondria (the parts of cells that convert food and oxygen into energy for our bodies) has been linked with aging. Maintaining normal levels of NAD+ in the body (through the use of NR supplements) has been shown to promote mitochondrial function, promote the formation of new mitochondria and extend the mitochondrial life span.
• Prevents Cognitive Decline – research using mice to model cognitive function has shown that adding NR to their diets resulted in a decrease of damage to their DNA, higher brain neuroplasticity, the production of new neurons in the brain and lower levels of overall neuronal damage. In this research NR appeared to help with existing damage and prevent it from spreading further.
• Promotes Muscle Function and Strength – muscle function and strength tend to decline as people age. Some studies have shown that using an NR supplement can help to improve muscle strength and endurance by elevating levels of NAD+. Some studies have also shown that it can help repair damaged muscles.
• Counter the Effects of a High-Fat Diet – research in animals shows that using NR supplements supports the function of their metabolism and controls weight gain even when they consume a high-fat diet.
Dietary sources of NR can be found in milk which contains trace amounts (about 4.8 micromoles per liter). Just drinking milk, however, is not enough to gain a therapeutic benefit and NR supplements are a better option. Studies with NR supplements have shown that doses as high as 1000mg per day can be tolerated by most people.
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