We all experience aging, but how well we age depends on many factors; diet, activity, genetics, environment, and supplementation. We often see a supplement touted as the next anti-aging miracle and are usually left disappointed in the results. But sometimes, a supplement comes along, and it is the real thing. That’s the case with Niagen.
What is Niagen?
Nicotinamide riboside, also called niagen, is an alternative form of Vitamin B3, which is commonly known as niacin. Inside the body, niagen is converted into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or NAD+. NAD+ is a coenzyme or a “helper” molecule; it helps to reverse the signs of aging inside the body.
NAD+ provides the energy for many of our biological processes, including:
- Turning food into energy
- Repairing damage to DNA
- Shoring up our cell’s defenses
- Setting the body’s circadian rhythm
The amount of NAD+ we have naturally decreases as we age. Our levels decline by as much as 50% between the ages of 40 and 60. Factors including intense exercise, a stressed immune system, and poor sleep can also decrease our levels of NAD+
These lower levels are linked to diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and vision loss. Research has shown that by increasing our NAD+ levels, we can reverse some of the signs of aging and decrease our risk of some chronic diseases.
The Benefits of Niagen
Supplementing Niagen may help prevent or improve age-related deterioration and chronic conditions.
Protects brain cells: NAD+ helps control the production of a protein that seems to help protect cells against the oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial function linked to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Protects the heart: NAD+ may help reduce the stiffness in the aorta and lower the systolic blood pressure in adults at risk of high blood pressure.
Weight loss: Nicotinamide riboside may help increase metabolism.
Cancer: NAD+ may lower cancer risk by helping to protect us from DNA damage and oxidative stress, two things linked to the development of cancer.
Treats jetlag: Because NAD+ helps regulate circadian rhythms, it may help reset the body’s internal clock when crossing timezones.
Protects muscle function: Higher levels of NAD+ may improve muscle function, endurance, and strength.
Niagen Supplementation
As an anti-ager, a supplement might not seem as sexy as the latest facial serum, but there is more to aging than what we look like on the outside! Niagen works at the cellular level, and cells are the foundation of good health. When you are supporting your cellular health, you’re supporting the whole of your health!
Nicotinamide is found in some foods, including cow’s milk, beer, and yeast but only in trace amounts. Niagen supplements are especially effective in increasing our body’s levels of NAD+. But of course, not all supplements are created equally. Tru Niagen has been shown to increase NAD+ levels by 40-50% after just two weeks!
We have Tru Niagen supplements available in the office. Reach out if you have any questions, and if you’re ready to start supplementing, the supplements can be picked up or shipped to you.