Niagen® nicotinamide riboside, a nutrient that increases NAD+
As we age, our cells' NAD+ levels naturally decline. Patent-protected Niagen® offers a scientifically studied approach to cellular health, and contributes to the growing science behind NAD+. Here's what you need to know about NAD+, why NR is a well-studied precursor, and why Niagen® is a science-backed ingredient.
Every cell in your body uses NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in normal cellular function. This coenzyme plays a key role in supporting cellular energy processes, helping convert the food you eat into ATP—the energy currency that powers cellular activities.
Scientists have identified two primary ways this molecule is involved in cellular health, both of which become increasingly important as we age.
Energy Production
NAD+ facilitates cellular energy creation through redox reactions, cycling between its oxidized form (NAD+) and reduced form (NADH). This process is essential for the three major metabolic pathways that produce ATP: glycolysis breaks down glucose, the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) processes metabolic intermediates, and fatty acid oxidation breaks down fats—all generating the ATP that fuels every cellular process.
Cellular Processes
NAD+ is also involved in various cellular processes. As a coenzyme, NAD+ participates in normal cellular metabolism and supports the body's natural cellular functions.
Your body obtains NAD+ building blocks from dietary sources like tryptophan and niacin (vitamin B3), and maintains a recycling system called the salvage pathway to reuse NAD+ components.
Some research suggests that additional sources of NAD+ beyond natural mechanisms may help support cellular energy demands, as studies indicate NAD+ levels may decline through interconnected factors that occur over time.
While your body's natural NAD+ production and recycling systems work continuously, they may become increasingly inadequate with age and metabolic stress. Not all NAD+ precursors are created equal—your cells have specific pathways and limitations for converting these molecules into usable NAD+.
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) offers a uniquely efficient route to NAD+ replenishment
Unlike direct NAD+ supplementation, which faces absorption challenges due to the molecule's size and instability, or other precursors that require multiple enzymatic steps, NR utilizes a streamlined cellular pathway. Once inside your cells, NR is efficiently converted to NAD+ through the salvage pathway via nicotinamide riboside kinases—enzymes specifically designed for this conversion.
This targeted approach to restoring NAD+ levels can help bridge the critical energy gap, leading to supported cellular energy production.
Nicotinamide riboside: A scientifically validated NAD+ precursor
In 2004, Dr. Charles Brenner's research identified nicotinamide riboside as an effective precursor to NAD+, revealing new pathways for cellular NAD+ biosynthesis. His groundbreaking findings showed that this naturally occurring compound effectively crosses cellular membranes and converts to bioavailable NAD+.
"14 years and 40 published studies on Niagen® NR later, its unique NAD-supporting properties continue to amaze me."
Charles Brenner, Ph.D., Niagen Bioscience’s Chief Scientific Advisor | Alfred E Mann Family Foundation Chair in Diabetes and Cancer Metabolism at City of Hope
The scientist who discovered nicotinamide riboside's utility as a micronutrient
Backed by 25 years of research & innovation
We've led the way in celllular health science, pioneering discoveries in NAD+ with Niagen®.
Regulatory recognition and third-party testing backs our quality
Niagen® has received approval from leading regulatory agencies worldwide, such as Brazil's ANVISA, the European Commission, Australia's TGA, and Health Canada as a Natural Health Product. Niagen is the only NR product that has been notified to the FDA as GRAS and a New Dietary Ingredient.
Clinical research provides the scientific foundation
More than 35 clinical studies support Niagen®'s efficacy and cellular NAD+ support, with over 65% of registered nicotinamide riboside trials utilizing this patented ingredient. These peer-reviewed, published studies form the evidence base supporting every Tru Niagen capsule.
Well-researched, clinically studied NAD+ boosters
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