Niacinamide riboside
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Nicotinamide Riboside: Benefits, Safety, and Therapeutic Potential
Introduction to Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 and a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a crucial coenzyme in various metabolic processes. NR has garnered significant attention due to its potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing NAD+ levels, which decline with age and metabolic stress .
Metabolic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
NR and Insulin Sensitivity
Despite promising results in animal studies, human trials have shown mixed outcomes regarding NR's impact on insulin sensitivity. A 12-week clinical trial involving obese, insulin-resistant men found that NR supplementation did not improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, or body composition. This suggests that while NR is safe, its efficacy in enhancing insulin sensitivity in humans remains uncertain.
NR and Muscle Health
In aged individuals, NR supplementation has been shown to elevate the muscle NAD+ metabolome and reduce circulating inflammatory cytokines, indicating potential anti-inflammatory benefits. However, it did not significantly alter muscle mitochondrial bioenergetics. This highlights NR's role in modulating metabolic pathways and inflammation without directly impacting mitochondrial function.
Neuroprotective and Cardiovascular Benefits
NR and Neuroprotection
NR has demonstrated neuroprotective properties, particularly in models of Alzheimer's disease, by enhancing brain NAD+ synthesis and potentially improving neuronal health. This positions NR as a promising candidate for addressing neurodegenerative conditions.
Cardiovascular Health
NR's ability to elevate NAD+ levels has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that NR can enhance mitochondrial function and sirtuin activity, which are crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and combating metabolic disorders.
Safety and Bioavailability
Safety Assessments
Multiple studies have confirmed the safety of NR. In various toxicology assessments, including acute and 90-day studies, NR showed no genotoxicity and was well-tolerated at high doses . The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also concluded that NR is safe for use in food supplements up to 300 mg/day for the general adult population, excluding pregnant and lactating women.
Bioavailability
NR is naturally present in trace amounts in foods like cow milk, where it constitutes a significant portion of NAD+ precursors. This natural occurrence supports its bioavailability and potential as a dietary supplement.
Therapeutic Applications
Metabolic Disorders
NR's role in enhancing NAD+ levels makes it a valuable therapeutic agent for metabolic disorders. Its ability to modulate energy metabolism and reduce inflammation can be beneficial in conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes, although more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans .
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Given its neuroprotective properties, NR holds promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases. By boosting NAD+ levels in the brain, NR may help mitigate the progression of conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Cardiovascular Diseases
NR's impact on mitochondrial function and sirtuin activity suggests potential benefits for cardiovascular health. It may help improve heart function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusion
Nicotinamide riboside is a promising NAD+ precursor with potential benefits for metabolic health, neuroprotection, and cardiovascular function. While its safety is well-established, further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy in improving insulin sensitivity and other metabolic parameters in humans. As the body of evidence grows, NR may become a valuable supplement for enhancing overall health and combating age-related decline.
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