Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 and a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a critical coenzyme found in all living cells. NR has garnered scientific interest due to its capacity to elevate NAD+ levels, which decline with age and cellular stress, including oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Increased NAD+ supports various cellular processes, notably those involved in DNA repair and mitochondrial function.

Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that NR supplementation can mitigate oxidative damage in animal models by enhancing NAD+-dependent pathways, such as the activation of sirtuins and PARPs—enzymes that play key roles in cellular defense mechanisms against free radical-induced damage. Some animal studies show improved resistance to oxidative stress and reduced markers of oxidative damage in tissues.

Human studies are more limited but suggest that NR supplementation is safe and can increase NAD+ levels. However, direct evidence that NR supplementation significantly reduces free radical damage in humans is still emerging, and most clinical trials to date have focused on metabolic or age-related endpoints rather than direct oxidative stress biomarkers. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and promising preclinical data, robust clinical evidence in humans is not yet conclusive, resulting in a moderate evidence rating.

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Products containing nicotinamide riboside

Thorne Advanced Nutrients Multivitamin
Designs For Health CellGuard-NR 60 Capsules
Thorne Collagen Fit
Thorne Collagen Plus
Designs For Health Mito-NR™
Pure Encapsulations Mitochondria-ATP
Thorne NiaCel 400 NSF
Thorne ResveraCel
Pure Encapsulations RevitalAge™ Ultra