Is there a link between increasing NAD and cancer risk? Let us untangle this controversial debate

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A recent study involving mice, which investigated the effects of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), a precursor to NAD+, stirred a bit of a debate and made headlines. So we wanted to share some key insights and show you both sides of the coin, so you can have the full story.

The study suggested that NR supplementation could increase the risk of cancer and metastasis in immunocompromised mice that had been given aggressive cancer cells. However, it's crucial to analyze this study in its full context.

In recent years, Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) has been the subject of numerous scientific studies, with researchers exploring the potential benefits and risks associated with this critical coenzyme. One significant area of interest has been the relationship between NAD and cancer. A variety of studies have examined this connection, yielding a mixture of findings that have stirred up controversy and prompted further investigation.

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Keep in mind that the relationship between NAD and cancer is still relatively unexplored, and more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Limitations of the study on mice and NR

Several factors limit the applicability of this study to human health as humans and mice have different physiological characteristics, and what occurs in mice might not necessarily translate to humans. Firstly, the form of NR used in the study may not accurately reflect the bioavailability and metabolism of NR when taken orally in humans. Secondly, the diet of the mice could potentially have influenced the development and progression of cancer.

Furthermore, the dose of NR given to the mice was 6.6 times higher than the recommended dose for human NR supplements. Finally, the small sample size of the study adds a layer of uncertainty to the statistical significance of the findings.

Considering these limitations, this single animal study cannot definitively predict the impact of NR or NAD supplementation on human health, particularly in relation to cancer risk.

The other side of the coin: NAD and cancer treatment

As you know, we like to keep things objective with these blogs, so let us share a couple of studies that paint a different picture. These indicate that NAD could be a valuable ally in the fight against cancer. This is not to confuse you but to be transparent about how NAD research is at its early stages and we all still have a lot to learn from different patient populations and health conditions.

For instance, a recent study published in "Nature Communications" found that the repletion of NAD with niacin could counteract cancer cachexia. This severe syndrome causes weight loss and muscle wasting in cancer patients. The researchers found that niacin efficiently restored tissue NAD levels, improved mitochondrial metabolism, and reduced the symptoms of cancer-induced cachexia.

Moreover, another study conducted on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, found that boosting NAD levels with NR could alleviate HCC progression and metastasis, suggesting that NAD could serve as an effective treatment for suppressing HCC progression.

But again, these studies were also done on mice, so translating these findings to also apply to humans should be done with caution.

Where Ion Layer stands

We understand the importance of evidence-based decision-making when it comes to NAD+ supplementation. That's why we have gone to great lengths to ensure our NAD+ products meet the highest safety and efficacy standards.

Ion Layer has obtained certification with Legit Script, a leading provider of certification and monitoring services for trustworthy products and companies. Many view their seal of approval as a benchmark for quality and safety. Our dedication to rigorous certification processes reflects our commitment to delivering safe and reliable NAD+ supplements to our customers.

Our position is to use NAD+ to normalize NAD levels in the body corresponding to the amount present during youth, not to overdose. This strategy helps mitigate the age-related decline in NAD levels, which studies have shown to be responsible for many detrimental age-related diseases.

Based on all the facts above, we don't believe the recent study can be translated into concerns regarding supplementation with the Ion Layer NAD+ Patches. Our recommended 500mg of NAD+ (per patch) every 5 days is a safe passage.

We must highlight that other nutrient supplementation and hormonal replacement regimens for optimizing the quality of life during aging are decided under different considerations compared to those during active cancer/cancer treatment and should always be based on clinical judgment in concordance with patient wishes.

A promising yet complex field

The relationship between NAD and cancer is a complex and multifaceted one, with plenty of room for further investigation. While some studies suggest risks associated with NAD precursor supplementation, others highlight benefits, particularly in the context of cancer treatment.

Despite the complexities and controversies, the potential for increasing NAD levels to contribute to cancer treatment may offer a glimmer of hope in the ongoing battle against this devastating disease. However, as with any promising breakthrough, it's essential to proceed with caution, ensuring that any potential benefits are carefully weighed against potential risks.