What are the benefits of Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) riboside chloride supplementation?

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Last updated: June 11, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Nicotinamide riboside chloride supplementation has not been shown to have a clear benefit in the context of diabetes management or cardiovascular health, as evidenced by the lack of conclusive data in the provided study 1. The study from 2002 published in Diabetes Care 1 discusses various nutritional principles and recommendations for the treatment and prevention of diabetes and related complications, but it does not specifically address the benefits of nicotinamide riboside chloride supplementation. However, in the context of general health and wellness, nicotinamide riboside chloride is believed to offer several potential benefits, primarily through its ability to boost NAD+ levels in the body, which is essential for cellular energy production and repair. Some of the potential benefits may include:

  • Improved mitochondrial function, which may enhance energy levels and exercise performance
  • Support for cardiovascular health by improving blood pressure and arterial function
  • Promotion of healthy aging by activating sirtuins, proteins that regulate cellular health and longevity
  • Support for brain health and cognitive function It is essential to note that while research is promising, many benefits are still being investigated, and results vary between individuals. As with any supplement, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting nicotinamide riboside chloride is advisable, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications. Typical supplementation ranges from 250-500mg daily, taken with or without food, but the optimal dosage and potential side effects are not well-established in the provided study 1. Given the lack of direct evidence from the study, a cautious approach is recommended, prioritizing established treatments and lifestyle modifications for managing diabetes and related complications, while considering the potential benefits and risks of nicotinamide riboside chloride supplementation in the context of overall health and wellness 1.

From the Research

Benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride Supplementation

  • Increased NAD+ levels: Nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplementation has been shown to increase whole blood NAD+ levels in a dose-dependent manner 2.
  • Improved metabolic health: NR supplementation has been found to have potential health benefits in the treatment of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders 3.
  • Reduction of inflammatory states: Nicotinamide riboside may play a role in the reduction of inflammatory states and has shown some potential in the treatment of diverse severe diseases 4.
  • Alterations in body composition: NR supplementation has been found to alter body composition and skeletal muscle acetylcarnitine concentrations in healthy obese humans 5.
  • Neuroprotection: Nicotinamide riboside has been found to have neuroprotective effects, likely by stimulation of brain NAD synthesis, and may have potential benefits in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease 6.
  • Increased insulin sensitivity: NR supplementation has been found to have insulin-sensitizing effects and may enhance mitochondrial biogenesis and sirtuin functions 6.

Potential Therapeutic Uses

  • Treatment of cardiovascular disorders: NR supplementation has been found to have potential health benefits in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders 3.
  • Treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: Nicotinamide riboside may have potential benefits in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease 3, 6.
  • Treatment of metabolic disorders: NR supplementation has been found to have potential health benefits in the treatment of metabolic disorders, such as obesity and insulin resistance 3, 5.

Safety and Bioavailability

  • Generally recognized as safe (GRAS): Nicotinamide riboside chloride has been found to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods and dietary supplements 2.
  • Good bioavailability: NR supplementation has been found to have good bioavailability and can increase NAD+ levels in a dose-dependent manner 2.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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