Another option to live a longer, healthier life.
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Recent studies in mice have shown remarkable results with reprogramming aging dysfunctional stem cells to become younger healthier stem cells. Nicotinamide riboside (NR, a form of vitamin B3) halted and reversed the effects of aging on these stem cells. Additionally, NR had other interesting results when used in human testing.

NR is converted in the body to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). This dinucleotide has two primary functions – combat aging and activating sirtuins. It combats aging by boosting the mitochondrial function which, in turn, slows the aging processes. Sirtuins control gene expression. SIRT enzymes turn off genes to promote aging. Typically, these genes activate process promoting inflammation, fat synthesis and storage and blood sugar management.

NR impacts our metabolism to reduce the risk of obesity according to a 2012 study. NR ceases and reverses nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice which were fed high-fat and high-sugar diet to induce NAFLD. Additionally, NR restored the cognitive function of mice undergoing chemically induced Alzheimer’s symptoms. NR, through its ability to boost mitochondrial function in the brain, could slow typical Alzheimer’s related processes. It also delayed the death of brain cells providing a neuroprotective benefit.

The studies I quoted above are based on animal testing. NR has been sold as a supplement. There are great results for those people using them with few to no side effects. NR is like vitamin B3, but not exactly vitamin B3. It is a combination of nicotinamide and ribose.

Vitamin B3 is known as niacin or nicotinic acid. Niacin includes nicotinamide or niacinamide. These compounds are found certain types of meats, tuna, and mushrooms. Niacin maintains a healthy cardiovascular system, balances blood cholesterol levels, prevents diabetes and helps with brain function and healthy skin formation.

NR has relatively no side effects. However, niacin can induce nausea, skin rashes, headaches, dizziness and other symptoms. Be careful at any dose when using niacin. I’ve personally had hot facial flushes where I could feel my skin heat up and turn red at normal doses.

Do not confuse NR and vitamin B3. They sound almost the same and have similar protective properties in the body, but there is a difference.

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