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NutritionFacts.org Video Podcast

Risks and Benefits of Nicotinamide (NAM), a NAD+ Booster

NutritionFacts.org Video Podcast

Michael Greger, M.D. FACLM

Nutrition, Alternative Health, Health & Fitness

4.8951 Ratings

🗓️ 31 March 2025

⏱️ 5 minutes

🧾️ Download transcript

Summary

The metabolism of NAM may deplete our methylation capacity, interfering with the normal metabolism of hormones and neurotransmitters, and produce a neurotoxic compound in the process.

Transcript

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0:00.0

Ever since nicotinamide NAM was also shown to cure Pallagra,

0:12.0

both nicotinic acid N.A. and NAM have been collectively referred to as niacin, or vitamin B3,

0:19.0

though they are distinct compounds.

0:21.6

For example, NAM is not plagued by the same kind of hot flash reaction.

0:25.6

Facial flushing attributed to niacinamide in some older studies were likely due to a less

0:30.6

purified form contaminated with residual N.

0:34.6

The relative capacity of N.A versus NAM to generate NAD is unclear. Neither has been

0:41.6

shown to boost search-win activity, but both do extend the lifespan of sea elegance. I couldn't

0:47.2

find any longevity trials for N-A in rodents. However, NAM was put to the test and failed to

0:53.3

prolong the lives of mice.

0:55.7

What clinical effects might we expect in people?

1:00.1

Previously, I explored the proven anti-aging effects for topical nicotinamide on the skin

1:05.2

and the remarkable ability of oral nicotinamide to help prevent skin cancer.

1:09.9

I also noted it failed to prevent type 1 diabetes despite promising mouse data,

1:15.3

though it may help preserve residual function

1:18.2

and people newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes,

1:20.7

but apparently not enough to affect blood sugar control.

1:24.6

What about its use as an NAD booster?

1:30.3

In those with mitochondrial myopathy, N.A. raised muscle NAD levels and improved mitochondrial and muscle function, but in healthy

1:36.3

individuals, muscle NAD levels didn't budge. However, the average age of individuals in the control

1:42.0

group was 50. What about an older adult whose muscle NAD levels might potentially be lower?

1:49.1

Four NAD precursors were tested in older adults, averaging in their 70s.

...

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