Nicotinamide riboside supplementation raises human blood NAD+ metabolome

Researchers gave 24 healthy adults ages 55 to 79 either nicotinamide riboside or a placebo, a dummy pill, for six weeks. They then switched treatments after a break. Nicotinamide riboside is a form of vitamin B3. The researchers measured NAD+, a molecule involved in energy production and cell maintenance, in the blood. After six weeks, blood NAD+ levels rose by about 60% with the supplement, and it was generally well tolerated.

What this means for you: This shows that nicotinamide riboside can raise a blood marker, not that it extends life, boosts energy, or prevents disease. The study was small and short, so it is not strong evidence that buying the supplement improves health.