Nowadays, when we live in a world of processed food and are surrounded by various types of xenobiotic, we are unable to fully control the quality of food we eat, the water we drink or the air we breathe. Many of us are wondering about supplementation that would greatly regenerate our body and improve its functioning. One of the few compounds that is very optimistic at the time of initial research is a vitamin B3 derivative.
Niagen - characteristics
Nicotinamide riboside, which is called niacin, is a derivative of vitamin B3. It is important in the conversion to NAD +, an organic chemical that plays a vital role in the body's biochemical processes. Among its numerous functions, you can distinguish:
- Regulation of energy metabolism,
- Influence on the processes of aging of cells,
- Work of the nervous system,
- Work of mitochondria,
- Maintaining correct calcium levels,
- Mental ability.
By transforming nicotinamide into a NAD +, it indirectly affects its level in the body. This in turn translates into increased activation of specific proteins - sirtuin (SIR, SIR2). The uniqueness of these proteins is that they play important enzymatic processes:
- DNA repair
- Regulation of transcription
- Maintenance of chromosomal stability
In simple language you could say that these proteins determine how our body responds to diet, physical activity, stress and various environmental factors. That is why they are identified by scientists as the most important proteins in the human body.
It seems that since niagen influences NAD + levels and indirectly activates SIR proteins, it is a compound worth paying special attention to. But does this translate into practice? Research in this direction is promising.
Niagen - properties
One of the main advantages that theoretically carries with NAD + at homeostasis level is maintaining the vitality of the body and slowing the aging process. Swiss scientists have shown that supplementation with nicotinamide riboside significantly affects the restoration of the body's regeneration processes in aging mice. Improved regeneration is a reduction in cell and tissue degradation, which is to slow down the aging process of the body. After analysing the results of the study, mice showed an increase in mitochondrial activity that stimulated regenerative tissues. This translates into increased muscle mass, skin quality and mental performance, and consequently the longevity of the mouse.
According to the researchers, the results of these studies give a very broad field to fight:
- Degenerative brain diseases, including Alzheimer's,
- Wrinkles and cutaneous diseases,
- Diseases of the liver, kidneys, muscles,
- Regeneration of the body after treatment with radiotherapy.
In another study by US researchers, positive effects of nicotinamide riboside on the reduction of neuropathy and insulin resistance in diabetic rodents have been observed.
Niagen - summary
Nicotinamide riboside is undoubtedly a very interesting and persistent compound. Still, it is still at the stage of research and more about it we will be able to find out in the near future. However, there are some problems with it. The niagen supplement is patented by a single company, which greatly hampers its development and release. This, in turn, translates into a fairly high price.
