A supplement called nicotinamide riboside helps yeast cells live longer by boosting a key molecule in their cells and turning on a longevity gene, even without cutting calories.

What we've found so far is that nicotinamide riboside may help extend the lifespan of yeast cells by increasing levels of a molecule called NAD+ and activating a gene known as Sir2, even when calorie intake is not reduced [1]. Our current analysis of the available evidence leans in this direction, based on the data we’ve reviewed. We analyzed one assertion from the scientific literature, and it reports that nicotinamide riboside supports longer life in yeast through a specific biological pathway [1]. This pathway involves boosting NAD+, a molecule important for cellular energy and function, which in turn activates Sir2—a gene linked to aging and longevity in yeast [1]. Notably, this effect was observed without the need for calorie restriction, which is a well-known factor that can influence lifespan in some organisms [1]. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far comes from studies on yeast, not humans or animals, so we can’t say whether this applies beyond yeast cells. Also, only one assertion was analyzed, supported by four study references, but we don’t have details on study design, sample size, or reproducibility. Therefore, while the current evidence leans toward a positive effect in yeast, we don’t yet have enough information to understand the full picture or how it might translate to other species. We remain cautious in our interpretation because the data is limited and focused solely on yeast. Biological mechanisms in yeast can provide useful clues, but they don’t always mirror what happens in more complex organisms. Practical takeaway: In lab settings with yeast, nicotinamide riboside shows potential to support longer cell life through known longevity pathways, even without cutting calories. But this doesn’t mean it will have the same effect in people.