A new study has found that a common vitamin supplement may help people with a painful condition called peripheral artery disease, or PAD.
This condition affects millions of people and can make walking difficult and uncomfortable. The research suggests that a form of vitamin B3, known as nicotinamide riboside, could improve how far people with PAD can walk without pain.
Peripheral artery disease happens when the arteries that carry blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked. This is usually caused by a buildup of fatty deposits inside the blood vessels. As a result, less oxygen-rich blood reaches the leg muscles. This can lead to pain, cramping, and weakness, especially during walking or exercise.
PAD is quite common, especially in older adults. In the United States alone, more than 8.5 million people aged 40 and older are affected. The condition often gets worse over time, making everyday activities harder and reducing quality of life.
The new study was led by researchers from Northwestern University and the University of Florida. To ensure reliable results, the scientists used a double-blind clinical trial.
This means that neither the participants nor the researchers knew who was receiving the real supplement and who was receiving a placebo. This type of study helps reduce bias and improves the accuracy of the findings.
The trial included 90 people with PAD, with an average age of 71. Participants were followed for six months. During this time, some took nicotinamide riboside daily, while others took a placebo.
At the end of the study, the results showed that those who took the supplement were able to walk further than those who did not. On average, they improved their walking distance by about 57 feet more than the placebo group.
In a six-minute walking test, people taking the supplement increased their distance by about 23 feet. In contrast, those taking the placebo actually walked less over time, with their distance dropping by about 34 feet.
The benefits were even greater for participants who took most of their prescribed doses. Those who took at least 75% of their supplement improved their walking distance by more than 100 feet. This suggests that consistent use may lead to better results.
Nicotinamide riboside works by increasing levels of a substance in the body called NAD. NAD plays an important role in producing energy in cells, helping blood flow, and repairing damage in the body.
In people with PAD, the muscles often struggle to produce enough energy due to poor blood supply. By boosting NAD levels, this supplement may help improve muscle function and reduce symptoms.
Researchers also explored whether combining nicotinamide riboside with another compound, resveratrol, would provide extra benefits. Resveratrol is found in foods like red wine and is often linked to health benefits. However, the study found that adding resveratrol did not improve results further.
At present, one of the main treatments for PAD is supervised exercise, especially walking programs. These programs can help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms. However, not everyone has access to such programs, which is why new treatment options are needed.
The researchers say that while the results are promising, more studies are needed. Larger trials will help confirm whether nicotinamide riboside is safe and effective for wider use. They also plan to test the supplement in healthy older adults to better understand its effects.
This research, published in the journal Nature Communications, offers hope for people living with PAD. It also suggests that certain vitamins and supplements may play a role in improving health as we age.
As scientists continue to study new treatments, staying informed about nutrition and health can help people make better choices. While supplements like nicotinamide riboside may offer benefits, it is always important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about berry that can prevent cancer, diabetes, and obesity, and the harm of vitamin D deficiency you need to know.
For more health information, please see recent studies about the connection between potatoes and high blood pressure, and results showing why turmeric is a health game-changer.
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