Best Nicotinamide Riboside Supplements 2023
NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)
Nicotinamide riboside is a form of vitamin B3 (also called niacin or nicotinic acid). Unlike the other forms, research shows that NR increases levels of NAD+, a key central metabolism regulator. Core functions of NAD include:
- Converting food to energy
- Repairing DNA
- Creating androgen hormones
- Building muscles
- Recovery
- Activating a group of seven essential longevity proteins called sirtuins
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It exists in two forms: an oxidized form and a reduced form, which are NAD+ and NADH (H for hydrogen).
It is central to energy metabolism and maintaining proper cell function. It plays a crucial role for our mitochondria function, which turn food and oxygen into energy for our body to use. NAD+ also supports the function of sirtuins. Sirtuins are proteins that help protect cells from age-related decline, regulate biological pathways and turn certain genes on and off. However, NAD+ levels decline with age which drive the aging process.
If you have suboptimal NAD levels, you’ll age faster and have difficultly performing at your peak.NR vs NMN
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are both precursors to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme that plays important roles in energy production, DNA repair, and other cellular processes.
The primary difference is that NR is a form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin), while NMN is a type of nucleotide.
NMN is converted into NAD+ directly by enzymes in the body, while NR needs to go through an additional step in the body in order to be converted into NAD+.
NR is converted into NAD+ in the body and is used to support the production of NAD+ . It is used in therapies for aging, weight loss, and cognitive decline.
NMN is also a precursor to NAD+ and is used to support the production of NAD+ . NMN is a type of nucleotide, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, NMN is found in small amounts in some foods, such as edamame.
Both NR and NMN supplements are used to boost NAD+ levels in the body, and are used to support the anti-aging and overall wellness, However, NMN is directly converted into NAD+ by cells, while NR needs to go through an additional step in the body in order to be converted into NAD+.
NR used to be considered superior because no NMN transporter — required to get it into cells — had been detected.
We now know there is such a transporter (published in Nature in 2019: R, R), which gives NMN the advantage as it’s also a more direct NAD+ precursor. However, this is disputed by Chromadex in a 2019 publication.
Chromadex claimed that NMN must first be converted into NR in the blood before it can be used by the cells.
Pitting NR and NMN against each other is, for now, somewhat of a moot point because the two molecules have never been studied side by side in humans. The biggest, and most obvious, difference between NMN and NR is size. NMN is simply larger than NR, meaning it often needs to be broken down to fit into the cell. NR (Nicotinamide Riboside), when compared to other NAD+ precursors (like nicotinic acid or nicotinamide) reigns supreme in efficiency.
But give NMN a new door, one it can fit through, and it’s a whole new game. This is where cellular transporters come into play. Transporters are proteins that are doors on the cell; they allow molecules to enter the cell without needing to chemically transform.
That said, according to David Sinclair in this podcast:
Related:
Can you take NR and NMN together?
There have been no studies on taking NMN & NR together, and it would be best to test both separately and find which one you respond better to. You may be wasting your time (and money) taking both NMN & NR together as studies show that the majority of the time, NR is turned into NMN which is then turned into NAD+.
Stability and storage of NMN and NR
A stability analysis demonstrates NR is stable (does not undergo degradation) for up to six hours at room temperature and seven days at two to eight degrees Celsius. Regarding stability of NMN and NR, David Sinclair, PhD, A.O. of Harvard University says, “Make sure your NR and NMN is kept in the cold. If it’s just on the shelf and it’s not in a stabilized form, then it will degrade to nicotinamide, which is something you don’t want to take high doses of because we’ve shown in my lab many years ago that nicotinamide will inhibit the sirtuins, and PARP as well, and interfere with DNA repair.”
Niacin vs NR vs NMN
Niacin, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are all NAD precursors and related compounds, but they have different functions in the body.
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and niacin (also known as vitamin B3) are two different forms of vitamin B3, which is an essential nutrient that is important for the metabolism of energy and the synthesis of various substances in the body, such as hormones and enzymes.
NR is a form of vitamin B3 that can be found in milk and milk products. It is converted into the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in the body, and is being studied as a potential therapy for age-related diseases, weight loss, and cognitive decline.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that is important for the metabolism of energy and the synthesis of various substances in the body, such as hormones and enzymes. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and nerves. Niacin is found in a variety of foods, including meat, fish, and cereals, and can also be taken as a dietary supplement.
Both NR and niacin are forms of vitamin B3, but NR is specifically being researched as a NAD+ booster, while niacin or Vitamin B3 is a well-established nutrient, with a wide range of benefits that are well-documented in scientific literature.
NMN is another molecule that is a precursor to NAD+. It is a type of nucleotide, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. NMN is found in small amounts in some foods, such as edamame, and can also be taken as a dietary supplement to support the production of NAD+ in the body.
In this study, a meta-analysis based on currently published clinical trials with NAD+ precursors showed that supplementation with NAD+ precursors improved TG (TriGlyceride), TC (Total Cholesterol), LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein), and HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) levels in humans, but resulted in hyperglycemia, compared with placebo or no treatment.
Among them, NA (Nicotinic Acid) or Niacin has the most significant effect on improving lipid metabolism.
Best Nicotinamide Riboside Supplements 2023
1. TRU Niagen NAD+ Booster Supplement
TRU Niagen NAD+ Supplement comes in 3 sizes:
- 30 count / Serving Size: 1 Capsule once a day - Servings Per Container: 30
- 90 count / Serving Size: 1 Capsule once a day - Servings Per Container: 90
- 120 count / Serving Size: 1 Capsule once a day - Servings Per Container: 120
Tru Niagen Reviews: Over 14,000 global ratings, most of them 5 stars on Amazon.com.
Amazon Best Sellers: #1 in Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Supplements.
NIAGEN® is the trade name for Chromadex's proprietary NR ingredient, and protected by patents. Chromadex's finished Niagen product is sold under the brand Tru Niagen.
Because of its unique profile of benefits and low risks, NR has emerged as a popular choice, especially by its discoverer, biochemist Charles Brenner, among the NAD+ precursors. In Scientific Reports, researchers noted:
“Because NR does not cause flushing or inhibit sirtuins and the genes (NRK1 and NRK2) required for the metabolism of NR to NAD+ are upregulated in conditions of metabolic stress, NR has a particularly strong potential as a distinct vitamin B3 to support human wellness during metabolic stress and aging.”
“Therefore, administration of niacin or niacinamide is unlikely to be widely adopted for maintaining health and function with aging,” researchers wrote in Nature Communications.
Within your body, nicotinamide riboside is converted into NAD+, a helper molecule that exists inside each of your cells and supports many aspects of healthy aging.
Nicotinamide riboside supplements — such as niagen — have quickly become popular because they appear to be especially effective at raising NAD+ levels (Source). Nicotinamide riboside is also found in trace amounts in cows’ milk, yeast and beer (Source).
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- Technically, Nicotinamide Riboside is not the same molecule as NMN but they are both NAD precursors and are categorised under Vitamin B3 (Niacin) supplements by Amazon.com. Since, TruNiagen is the #1 best seller, we have decided to feature them as part of the best 10 list.
- ChromaDex markets TruNiagen, which is based on its branded Niagen ingredient, which is a form of nicotinamide riboside (NR), the form of nicotinamide that actively crosses into the cell to participate in the NAD+ pathway (R).
- Reduces the cellular effects of aging by elevating NAD+, a key coenzyme your body uses for healthy cellular metabolism.
- Nicotinamide Riboside for Energy, Metabolism, Vitality, Muscle Health, Healthy Aging, Cellular Repair - There are many cheaper alternative sources to buy NMN today, but are you getting what you paid for? If the price for NMN is too good to be true, it probably is not NMN.
Tru Niagen Review
While this is not a scientific review I have been taking Niagen in one form or another non stop for several years. I have been gradually increasing my doses with what I can only describe as a profound effect. Without a doubt I feel younger than 46. I also think I look younger than most people my age. I certainly don't feel my age and have a ton of energy every single day. I also try to eat plenty of vegetables with lots of non meat proteins along with limited meat consumption. I am not a health nut but basically try to stay away excess sugars and processed foods whenever I can. I also do a hard bike ride once or twice a week. I think this also helps the entire aging process some.
2. Nicotinamide Riboside w/Resveratrol & Quercetin by Reus Research
Ratings - 4.2 out of 5 : 1,590 global ratings on Amazon
Keep Your Energy Up: NR is like a fountain of energy for your cells - it acts as a precursor to NAD+, helping them w/ DNA repair and energy production, so they can keep up with their demanding 24/7 lifestyles
Make Your Brain Work Better: Quercetin Phytosome is the scientific solution for mental clarity – turbocharges your focus, clears perception and improves memory and mood — allowing you to reach peak mental performance
Receive The Elevated Dosage: Every serving delivers 500mg of the highest-grade Nicotinamide Riboside (highest on market) at an incredible 98% concentration
Excellent Supplement, I’m over 50 and have been taking NAD+ for years, and feel great.
3. Orgabay Liposomal Nicotinamide Riboside 2000 MG with TMG and Pterostilbene, 120 Count
Ratings - 4.6 out of 5 : 193 global ratings
Boosts NAD+ Level: NAD+ is vital to cells’ normal function and resilience. Unlike 500 mg, 1000 mg of nicotinamide riboside, our 1500 mg high potency nicotinamide riboside acts as a direct precursor of NAD+ and is more readily absorbed than other NAD+ precursors.
Liposomal Delivery for Superior Absorption: Unlike other nicotinamide , With liposomal technology nicotinamide riboside is absorbed directly into your cells via gut for superb effect. The non-gmo sunflower phosphatidylcholine in nicotinamide helps imporve its bioavailability.
Energy Production: Nicotinamide Riboside combines trans-pterostilbene with betaine anhydrous helps DNA and cellular repairing, and energy production, and maintains the body's peak function.
Exclusive Formulation: with Pterostilbene aim to boost NAD+ levels combat the reduction in sirtuins activity that occurs with normal aging. Betaine Anhydrous(TMG), also called trimethylglycine, helps maintain its structure and ease oxidative stress.
Trusted Brand: Orgabay Liposomal Nicotinamide Riboside has the highest quality control standards. Non-GMO, DAIRT-Free, No Extra Additives and No Artificial Flavorin. Take 2 softgel for 30 days supply.
I am blown away at how well these have worked to reduce my husband's blood pressure. He was on a medication that while it did bring his BP down, it had some unpleasant side effects. When our doctor suddenly closed his practice, he was without medication so I ordered these to help cover the gap until I could find a new doc. Low and behold, his BP has been better while taking these vitamins than it ever was on the medication! They are larger pills but they are very easy to swallow. No side effects whatsoever. Very happy with these and will continue to purchase!
4. Thorne Research ResveraCel (Best Nicotinamide Riboside with Resveratrol and Quercetin Phytosome)
Amazon Best Sellers: #4 in Resveratrol Nutritional Supplements.
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 - more than 500 global ratings
- Each capsule contains Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) ingredient, in addition to Resveratrol, Quercetin Phytosome, and Betaine.
- The ingredients in this product are complexed with Time-Sorb, a time-release matrix.
- Supports healthy aging and helps regulate metabolism.
- Resveratrol and quercetin increase the activity of sirtuins.
- Betaine provides important methylation factors.
- Flavors, colors, preservatives, and sweeteners derived from natural sources.
- No gluten, Genetically Modified Organisms (known as GMOs), artificial preservatives, stearates, wheat, rye, barley, eggs, or nuts. This product does not contain dairy, soy, corn, yeast, sugar, or magnesium stearate.
- No unnecessary binders, coatings, disintegrants, fillers, or lubricants (including magnesium stearate) that could impair absorption.
- Adheres to the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and has the highest number of NSF Certified for Sport products which tests for more than 200 banned substances for elite athletic competitions.
Review - My husband and I are in our 60s and have been taking these capsules for a few weeks. We both started with 2 capsules daily and experienced an increase in energy and in focus. We also both had trouble remaining asleep at night and had strange dreams. We have decreased our consumption of the capsules to one per day and have had a resolution to the sleep problems. We both continue to enjoy an increase in energy and in focus. We have reordered this Thorne product and are very satisfied with the results. It would be best to start with one capsule per day and work up from there until you find your own correct dosage.
Important safety note: Resveratrol is not suitable for people undergoing blood-thinning medication.
5. Life Extension NAD+ Cell Regenerator and Resveratrol Elite
- NAD+ Cell Regenerator™ and Resveratrol Elite™ is Life Extension's Best in Class formula for energy support. It combines 300 mg of NIAGEN® nicotinamide riboside with an ultra-bioavailable trans-resveratrol (as well as bioavailability-enhanced forms of the phytonutrients quercetin and fisetin) to fight general fatigue and promote longevity with every dose.
- NIAGEN® nicotinamide riboside increases your levels of NAD+, an enzyme critical to healthy cellular energy production. Resveratrol promotes a variety of health and longevity mechanisms; quercetin supports heart and immune health; and fisetin encourages your body to clear senescent cells. This formula combines highly bioavailable forms of all four of these nutrients, creating an unrivaled supplement for energy, vitality and defense against cellular aging.
- iHerb Best Seller Product Rank: #1 in Fisetin category; #2 in Nicotinamide Riboside category.
- Over 1,000 customer reviews, most of them 5-stars on iHerb.com.
FAQs
1. How can I raise my NAD levels naturally?
If you want to remain youthful and enjoy a long and healthy life, then there are ways in which you can naturally enhance the levels of NAD in your body. Continue reading to find out how:
a. Fasting
Fasting is practiced in many religions throughout the world. In addition to its spiritual benefits, it turns out that fasting is also beneficial for our health. Fasting, or reducing your calorie intake is an excellent method for indirectly boosting the body’s NAD levels. Fasting has been shown to increase the levels of NAD+ and surtuins; the proteins which have been found to slow the aging process.
While fasting is effective in increasing NAD+ levels, drastic reduction in calorie intake or fasting can have a counterproductive effect. There is also some speculation that intermittent fasting or adopting a low carb-ketogenic diet may also provide similar positive results.
b. Nicotinamide Riboside and other NAD Boosting Dietary Supplements
Nicotinamide Riboside has recently been discovered in Vitamin B3. No one really paid attention to this molecule until research showed that our bodies can use NR to metabolise NAD+! After this discovery, several NR supplements became available in the markets. Various studies have shown that NR supplements are beneficial in boosting the levels of NAD+ in the body.
c. Exercise
Exercise is one of the easiest and most cost-effective methods for boosting NAD+ levels. When we exercise, our bodies need energy, which comes from NAD+. Basically, exercise forces our body muscles to produce more mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of cells. The increased production of mitochondria results in a natural boost in NAD+ levels in the body.
d. Too Much Sunlight May not be Good!
Research has shown that too much direct sunlight exposure can deplete the body of NAD+ levels. This is because our body uses NAD+ to repair cells which get damaged as a result of direct UV ray exposure from the sunlight. In case you feel that excessive sunlight exposure is inevitable for you, then you should wear sunblock, sunscreen or sunglasses.
e. Foods which Boost NAD Levels
There are certain foods which can boost NAD levels in the body. Some of them include:
- Dairy Milk – research has indicated that cow’s milk is a good source of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR). A litre of fresh cow’s milk contains about 3.9µmol of NAD+.
- Fish – some varieties of fish like tuna, salmons and sardines are rich sources of NAD+ for the body.
- Mushrooms – many people like mushrooms and them as a regular food item in their regular diet. But did you know that mushrooms, especially the crimini mushrooms, also help in naturally boosting NAD levels? Yes, that’s true. So, enjoy eating the mushrooms and continue to look and younger and more youthful!
- Yeast – yeast is an ingredient which is used for making bread and other bakery products. Yeast contains Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), which is a precursor of NAD. Here’s another reason for you to enjoy your favorite pastries or buns whenever you visit the bakery! Enjoy your favorite food while boosting NAD levels at the same time.
- Green Vegetables – green vegetables contain all sorts of nutrients in them which are beneficial in a variety of ways. Recently, it has come to light that green vegetables are also a good source of NAD for the body. Some of these vegetables include peas and asparagus.
- Whole Grains – as discussed earlier, Vitamin B3 also contains Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), the precursor for NAD. However, when vegetables, food items or grains are cooked or processed, they lose their nutrition as well as the vitamin source. Therefore, it is recommended that you should also eat raw vegetables and take whole grains instead of processed foods.
- Cut Down on Alcoholic Beverages – NAD is responsible for maintaining the overall metabolic processes of the body. Alcohol tends to interfere with these processes and reduce the efficacy of NAD. Therefore, you should avoid excessive intake of alcoholic drinks since they are also not good for your health.
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