Facts, benefits of nicotinamide riboside, nr
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is Nicotinamide Riboside, NR?
NR vs NMN
NR Benefits
3 WAYS TO SPOT A FAKE
WHY IS GMP CERTIFICATION CRITICAL?
NR Supplements – Product Reviews
COMPANY BACKGROUND
The UltraHealth Store stands as a pioneer in the realm of biochemical science, specializing in the production of pharmaceutical-grade anti-aging compounds with a purity of 99+% . Our affiliation with the FDA-approved cGMP and our mother company, GSK International, has empowered us to serve the scientific, research, and consumer sectors with our high-grade products since 2015.
The supplement industry, despite being crowded, often lacks comprehensive regulation, leading to a sea of information that can be biased or promotional. Unlike many others, UltraHealth derives its knowledge from meticulous clinical studies from respected sources such as the National Institute of Health, the Journal of Biological Chemistry, and ongoing research from leading U.S. health institutions.
What is NR?
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is a critical coenzyme found in every cell of our bodies and plays a significant role in energy production, DNA repair, and various other cellular processes.
The interest in NR has increased in recent years due to its potential as a dietary supplement for boosting NAD+ levels. Declining NAD+ levels have been associated with aging and several age-related diseases. Therefore, it's believed that increasing NAD+ levels through supplementation with precursors like NR might promote healthy aging and improve certain health parameters.
Several studies have explored the effects of NR supplementation, with findings suggesting potential benefits related to metabolic health, protection against neurodegenerative diseases, and improved muscle function. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and potential side effects of NR supplementation.
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NR vs NMN
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) serve as forerunners to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), an indispensable coenzyme vital for cellular energy metabolism. Elevating NAD+ concentrations has been suggested as a strategy to counteract diseases linked to aging and possibly decelerate the aging process itself. Below are the principal distinctions between NMN and NR:
-
1. Molecular Composition:
-
NMN:
- Nicotinamide mononucleotide consists of three main elements:
- Nicotinamide molecule
- Phosphate group
- Ribose sugar
- Nicotinamide mononucleotide consists of three main elements:
-
NR:
- Nicotinamide riboside omits the phosphate group seen in NMN, essentially being NMN minus this group.
2. Cellular Conversion:
-
NR:
- As a supplement, once inside cellular space, it transitions into NMN.
- Subsequently gets transformed into NAD+.
-
NMN:
- Initial step is its conversion to NR, allowing permeation through the cell barrier.
- Once inside, it turns back into NMN and finally to NAD+.
- Refer to the depicted Salvage Pathway (uncovered in 1955) for a clearer view.
3. Study Insights:
- Recent data from September 2022:
- Intensive studies on NMN and NR discern their impact on human well-being, aging, and other health conditions.
- Animal trials suggest positive outcomes.
- Human-centric studies remain in their early stages.
- NR has been under the research lens longer than NMN.
4. Dietary Addition:
- Both NMN and NR are procurable as over-the-counter supplements.
- Points of active study include:
- Effectiveness
- Safety
- Prolonged impact on humans
5. Absorption Dynamics:
- Continuing debate and investigation regarding absorption efficiency.
- Preliminary indications:
- Both agents can amplify NAD+ levels effectively.
- Optimal approach and dosage remain as study points.
6. Safety Metrics:
- Based on the latest data:
- Both compounds seem generally well-accepted in observed doses.
- Potential repercussions and safety profile over extended use need more exploration.
-
NMN:
To sum up, both NMN and NR act as precursors to NAD+, each with its own merits and potential therapeutic advantages. Despite their similarities, the key variables lie in their molecular makeup and the steps they take to convert into NAD+. If you're contemplating supplementing with either, consultation with a healthcare expert is advised to ensure it's suitable for you.
SALVAGE PATHWAY - NAD+ CREATION
NR Benefits
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a vital coenzyme involved in several cellular processes. Given the role of NAD+ in various biological functions, NR supplementation has gained attention for its potential health benefits. Some of the purported benefits of nicotinamide riboside include:
-
Boosting NAD+ Levels: As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline. NR supplementation can help boost these levels, supporting various cellular functions.
-
Supporting Cellular Energy Production: NAD+ plays a critical role in the production of ATP, the primary energy molecule in cells. By increasing NAD+ levels, NR may support cellular energy production.
-
Promoting Healthy Aging: Reduced NAD+ levels have been associated with aging and age-related conditions. By raising NAD+ levels, NR may help combat some of the negative effects of aging.
-
Neuroprotection: Some animal studies suggest that NR can support brain health and may offer protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases.
-
Improving Muscle Function: Preliminary research has shown that NR can improve muscle function and exercise capacity, possibly due to enhanced mitochondrial function.
-
Supporting Metabolic Health: NR may have potential benefits in regulating metabolism, supporting healthy blood sugar levels, and improving insulin sensitivity.
-
Enhancing DNA Repair: NAD+ plays a role in the repair of DNA. Therefore, boosting its levels through NR might promote better DNA repair mechanisms, potentially reducing the risk of some diseases and the effects of certain environmental stressors.
-
Supporting Circadian Rhythm and Sleep: NAD+ is involved in regulating our body's internal clock, and supplementation with NR might aid in maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
-
Cardiovascular Benefits: Early studies have indicated that NR might provide benefits to cardiovascular health, although more research is needed in this area.
It's essential to note that while there's a growing body of research supporting these benefits, many studies are still in the early stages, particularly human trials.
3 WAYS TO SPOT A FAKE
Unfortunately, the most foolproof method to confirm the authenticity of your dietary supplement is through independent testing, which can be costly.
Major online platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and iHerb aren't always reliable in weeding out subpar products. Today, many supplement brands resort to using fabricated test results, reviews, and GMP certifications to promote their potentially dubious items. Furthermore, the myriad of supplement review websites that populate Google Search often lack comprehensive product analyses. Despite their proclamations of championing consumer health, several of these sites are motivated by referral earnings, which could jeopardize the integrity and safety of the supplements they vouch for.
However, there are other ways to independently evaluate the trustworthiness of dietary supplement brands without incurring costs.
We'll delve into how the following free tools can offer insights, starting with a mere glance at a product's label.
- UPC lookup link - GS1
- FDA supplement label regulations link - FDA Label
- GMP Company lookup link - FDA Database
1. UPC code lookup - If your supplement bottle has a UPC code just go to GS1 and navigate down, choose GTIN (the formal term for a UPC code). Enter the complete number into the search bar. After clicking search, the government database will swiftly provide the company's details. If you get a response saying the UPC code is invalid, it implies it's not a genuine UPC code. Steer clear of such products!
If you're unable to locate a UPC code or if the company doesn't display it on their website, you can search using the company's name.
Moreover, if the company name appears but doesn't align with the one you're investigating, it's possible that it was unlawfully duplicated and affixed to the bottle.
2. FDA supplement label regulations - Examine the right portion of your supplement bottle where the 'Supplement Facts' are displayed. This label should detail the specific name of the active ingredient, its dosage, quantity, and the full address of the company either selling the product or listed under 'manufactured for'. To view the comprehensive guidelines for dietary supplement labeling, simply click. FDA Label.
If the company's label isn't in line with FDA standards, it suggests they aren't utilizing a certified GMP. A genuine GMP would prevent a bottle from being inaccurately labeled or lacking essential information.
The above illustration accurately presents NR. Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is available in two forms: standard NR and stabilized NRCL. A certified GMP, upon receiving the bulk compound, would expect the correct COA (certificate of analysis) specifying the type of NR supplied. If only "nicotinamide riboside" is mentioned without specifics, it would be marked as incorrect, and the GMP would halt the manufacturing process.
3. GMP Company Search Link - It's rare for companies to display their GMP certificate, which carries the name of the FDA-approved GMP entity. If you possess the name of the GMP, you can simply enter it into the search bar on this website: FDA Database. This will display the company's inception date, the number of inspections they've undergone, and any violations they might have.
Should your supplement company not disclose this information, consider reaching out to them via phone or email to inquire. If they decline to share or claim it's confidential, proceed with caution. A reputable company would willingly and confidently share such details with their clientele.
WHY IS GMP CERTIFICATION CRITICAL?
GMP, an acronym for "Good Manufacturing Practice," is a protocol designed to guarantee that products are routinely produced adhering to quality benchmarks. A "certified GMP" facility has been evaluated and fulfills the GMP standards set by the respective regulatory agencies. In the U.S., the FDA manages GMP guidelines for food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. When a business mentions its products are sourced from a "GMP certified" or "GMP compliant" establishment, it indicates that the production methods have been assessed and conform to the rigorous criteria determined by the appropriate regulatory authority.
why does GMP certification matter?
-
GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice): Designed to guarantee products are consistently produced according to quality standards.
-
Certified GMP Facility:
- An establishment that's been inspected and meets GMP criteria.
- Adheres to standards set by regulatory agencies.
-
FDA Oversight:
- Governs GMP guidelines in the U.S.
- Applicable to sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
-
GMP Certification in Companies:
- When a product is labeled as "GMP certified" or "GMP compliant", it means:
- Production methods have been scrutinized.
- Processes align with stringent standards of the relevant regulatory body.
- When a product is labeled as "GMP certified" or "GMP compliant", it means:
how to ask a supplement company for their GMP? Just contact them.
Dear company XYZ,
I'm interested in purchasing (or continuing to purchase) your product. Could you please provide me with the name of your GMP so I can reach out to them directly?
Based on just a bit of FDA label information, it's apparent that many of the unsuccessful companies weren't genuine. We examined the labels of all these companies, and none passed the basic FDA standards tests highlighted earlier.
NR Supplements – Product Reviews
Below, we've ranked companies based on their current NR products. Our evaluation is rooted in cross-referencing information from official government sites and ensuring the details on the bottles adhere to regulatory and legal standards. Additionally, we assess bioavailability, considering factors like the presence of liposomal capsules and the purity of active ingredients. If products are on par in these aspects, we then categorize them based on the price per gram of NR.
It's worth noting that while some companies advertise their products as liposomal, they aren't genuinely so. For a deeper understanding, refer to our blog titled 'The Lipo Lie'.LINK. It is a must read.
The ranking system goes up to 6 stars, with companies scoring 3 stars and above considered dependable. Companies with ratings below 3 stars are ones we believe you should approach with caution or avoid entirely.
NOTE: NR vs NRCL, there is a major difference. Nicotinamide riboside chloride (NRCL) is the chloride salt form of nicotinamide riboside. The addition of the chloride makes the compound more stable and improves its solubility, making it more suitable for certain applications, especially in supplements. Also, simple NR breaks down in the stomach faster than NRCL providing less for absorption in the small intestine. NR will need to be refrigerated so that it does not loss its potency unlike NRCL which can be stored at room temperature.
Here is how to calculate cost per gram of the active ingredient:
- serving per bottle x mg per serving - X (mg per bottle)
divide X by 1000 = Y (grams per bottle)
divide the price of one bottle by Y = $/gram
UltraHealth NRCL - Score 6 out of 6
The only company posting their real GMP certificate, real Liposomal capsules, & only one inert additive.
THORNE NR - Score 4 out of 6
PROHEALTH NR - Score 3 out of 6
LIFE EXTENSION NR - Score 3 out of 6
TRU NIAGEN NR - Score 3 out of 6
The above companies are considered reliable.
NOOTROPICS NR - Score 1 out of 6
ELYSIUM BASIS NR - Score 1 out of 6
PACIFIC COAST NR - Score 0 out of 6
RENUE BY SCIENCE NR - Score 0 out of 6
DONOTAGE NR - Score 0 out of 6
The above companies are suspicious and should be avoided. 
BUY NOW!
ULTRAHEALTH NR - Score 6 out of 6
| Price per gram |
$3.85 / gm* |
| Dosage per Capsule | 300 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria |
|
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL |
yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | yes |
| True Liposomal capsule / bio-available | yes |
| reliability criteria |
|
| Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
| Real UPC number | 860005633203 |
|
GMP Certification number |
11625918556 |
| * includes our VC10 discount for 10% off |
THORNE NR Score 3 out of 6
THORNE NR
| Price per gram |
$3.69 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 415 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes* |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | yes* |
| Real UPC number | no |
|
GMP Certification number |
yes* |
| *Thorne owns their own GMP |
PROHEALTH NR - Score 3 out of 6
PROHEALTH NR
| Price per gram |
$3.90 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 250 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
| Real UPC number | yes |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
LIFE EXTENSION NR - Score 3 out of 6
LIFE EXTENSION NR
| Price per gram |
$5.00 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 300 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
| Real UPC number | yes |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
TRU NIAGEN NR - Score 3 out of 6
TRU NIAGEN NR
| Price per gram |
$5.28 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 300 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | yes |
| Real UPC number | yes |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
NOOTROPICS NR - Score 1 out of 6
NOOTROPICS NR
| Price per gram |
$3.89 / gm |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| Dosage per Capsule | 300 mg |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | no |
| Real UPC number | no |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
ELYSIUM BASIS NR - Score 1 out of 6
ELYSIUM BASIS NR
| Price per gram |
$8.00 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 250 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | no |
| Real UPC number | ? |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
PACIFIC COAST NR - Score 0 out of 6
PACIFIC COAST NR
| Price per gram |
$2.00 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 500 mg* |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | yes |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| Correct FDA Required Label | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Real UPC number | no |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
| *mg per capsule is impossible |
possible Chinese shell company |
RENUE BY SCIENCE NR - Score 0 out of 6
RENUE BY SCIENC NR
| Price per gram |
$2.76 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 300 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | no |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | no |
| Real UPC number | no |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
DONOTAGE NR - Score 0 out of 6
DONOTAGE NR
| Price per gram |
$2.81 / gm |
| Dosage per Capsule | 350 mg |
| absorption / effectiveness criteria | |
| nicotinamide riboside chloride/NRCL | no |
| Pure - no added Ingredients | no |
| True Liposomal / bio-available | no |
| reliability criteria | |
| Correct FDA Required Label | no |
| Real UPC number | no |
|
GMP Certification number |
no |
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NMN Supplements – Product Reviews
We have not included some companies because they are lesser know, in other overseas countries or to awful to list.
Please us our contact page to ask any questions or request a company to be reviewed.