Researchers at University of Colorado are conducting numerous studies using Nicotinamide Riboside “NR” (FAQs) (Reviews). The following are key excerpts from a substantive and accessible profile from their alumni magazine:

“So in recent years, Seals and his research trainees have taken a different path toward that elusive Fountain of Youth, testing a novel nutritional compound that stimulates the same physiological pathways that calorie restriction (CR) does. The compound, a form of Vitamin B called nicotinamide riboside (NR), is one of several so-called CR-mimetics under investigation in labs around the country, in what researchers are calling an exciting renaissance in the quest to slow biological aging and extend both lifespan and “healthspan” — the period of life that we remain healthy with good physical and cognitive function.”

Already, in a small, first-of-its-kind study, Seals’ team found NR can improve blood pressure and reduce arterial stiffness (a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cognitive impairments) in older adults. 

Now, with a $2.5 million, five-year grant from the National Institute on Aging, they’re conducting a study of about 100 more adults to assess the compound’s impact on the heart, brain and body. 

Meanwhile, Seals and his CU Anschutz colleague, professor Michel Chonchol, also are assessing the effects of NR in patients with chronic kidney disease (a major disease of aging that is on the rise). At the University of Delaware, assistant professor Christopher Martens — who began his study of CR-mimetics as a postdoctoral researcher in Seals’ lab — is testing NR in older patients with mild cognitive impairment. 

Results from a Recent Study:

For a 12-week pilot study, published in the journal Nature Communications in 2018, Seals’ team looked at 24 lean and healthy men and women, ages 55 to 79, and found that 1,000 mg daily of NR boosted levels of NAD+ by 60 percent. 

They also found that in participants with elevated blood pressure or early-stage hypertension, systolic blood pressure was about 10 points lower after supplementation.

A drop of that magnitude could translate to a 25 percent reduction in cardiovascular disease risk, the authors noted.

New Study:

In the new study, 100 people will be divided into two groups, with half taking 1,000 mg per day of NR for three months and half taking a placebo. Along the way, the researchers will measure their vascular health, blood flow to their brain and changes in cognition and physical fitness along the way.

“If confirmed, this could be something people could take to improve their cardiovascular health and enjoy more healthy years of life,” said Craighead.

Full article HERE.

RELATED:

  • FAQs on taking NAD boosting vitamin supplement Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) can be found HERE.

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