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ING-149Ingredient Research Profile

Cognitive / Nootropics

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)

Also known as: NR · Niagen · Tru Niagen

●●○Moderate Evidence

An efficient NAD⁺ precursor that raises tissue NAD⁺ levels — declining with age. Activates sirtuins and PARP (DNA repair), supporting mitochondrial health and cellular longevity.

Effective Dose

250–500mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Cognitive / Nootropics

Mechanism

NAD⁺ precursor — mitochondrial biogenesis, sirtuin activation, DNA repair

primary action

Best For

Anti-ageing

Energy metabolism, Muscle function, Neuroprotection

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?

Nicotinamide riboside is a form of vitamin B3 that serves as a highly efficient NAD⁺ precursor. NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) declines by 50% between age 40 and 60, impairing mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and sirtuin activity. NR restores NAD⁺ levels in humans more effectively than niacin or nicotinamide at equivalent doses.

How It Works: The Science

NR is phosphorylated to NMN (by NR kinase) and then to NAD⁺ (by NMNAT enzymes). Elevated NAD⁺ activates SIRT1 and SIRT3 (deacetylases regulating mitochondrial biogenesis via PGC-1α), PARP (DNA repair enzyme), and CD38 (immune signalling). NAD⁺ is also the electron acceptor in glycolysis and the TCA cycle — critical for ATP synthesis.

Primary Mechanism

NAD⁺ precursor — mitochondrial biogenesis, sirtuin activation, DNA repair

Evidence-Based Benefits

Significantly raises blood and tissue NAD⁺ levels

strong

Trammell et al. (2016) — 1000mg NR raised whole blood NAD+ by 2.7-fold

Improves muscle function and reduces age-related decline

moderate

Elhassan et al. (2019) — 1g/day for 21 days improved muscle NAD+ and mitochondrial function

Improves blood pressure in middle-aged and older adults

moderate

Martens et al. (2018) — NR reduced systolic blood pressure and arterial stiffness

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

250–500mg / day

250–500mg/day. Tru Niagen is the most studied commercial form. Combining with resveratrol or pterostilbene may synergistically activate sirtuins more effectively.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Very well tolerated. No flushing (unlike niacin). Some concern that high NAD⁺ could promote cancer cell proliferation — theoretical; no clinical evidence at supplemental doses. Generally safe in published trials.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for
Anti-ageingEnergy metabolismMuscle functionNeuroprotection
Who it's for

Adults over 40 concerned with energy decline and cellular ageing, endurance athletes wanting mitochondrial support, and anyone wanting to complement lifespan-focused supplementation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?

250–500mg/day. Tru Niagen is the most studied commercial form. Combining with resveratrol or pterostilbene may synergistically activate sirtuins more effectively.

Is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) safe?

Very well tolerated. No flushing (unlike niacin). Some concern that high NAD⁺ could promote cancer cell proliferation — theoretical; no clinical evidence at supplemental doses. Generally safe in published trials.

How does Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) work?

NR is phosphorylated to NMN (by NR kinase) and then to NAD⁺ (by NMNAT enzymes). Elevated NAD⁺ activates SIRT1 and SIRT3 (deacetylases regulating mitochondrial biogenesis via PGC-1α), PARP (DNA repair enzyme), and CD38 (immune signalling). NAD⁺ is also the electron acceptor in glycolysis and the TCA cycle — critical for ATP synthesis.

Who should take Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?

Adults over 40 concerned with energy decline and cellular ageing, endurance athletes wanting mitochondrial support, and anyone wanting to complement lifespan-focused supplementation.

Related Ingredients

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)ResveratrolCoQ10 (Ubiquinol)PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →