Does nicotinamide riboside improve walking distance in people with peripheral artery disease?
What the Evidence Shows
What we've found so far suggests that nicotinamide riboside might help people with peripheral artery disease walk a bit farther. Our analysis of the available research shows the evidence leans toward a small improvement in walking distance after taking the supplement daily for 12 weeks.
We reviewed one assertion from the data, which reports that people with leg circulation problems were able to walk about 22 meters farther in a 6-minute walk test after taking nicotinamide riboside for 12 weeks . This finding is based on 45 supporting studies or data points, with no studies indicating a negative effect . While the number of supporting data points appears strong, we only have one distinct assertion to draw from at this time, which limits how broadly we can interpret the results.
We don’t yet know how this effect compares across different groups of people, what long-term use might do, or whether the improvement is noticeable in daily life. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far does not tell us if other factors—like diet, exercise, or medication—might influence the outcome.
It’s important to note that our current analysis is based on limited assertions, even if the supporting data points are numerous. We cannot say how strong or consistent the effect is beyond what’s reported in this single claim. More evidence would be needed to understand the full picture.
For now, what we can say is that the available data points toward a modest increase in walking distance for some people with peripheral artery disease who take nicotinamide riboside over three months.
Practical takeaway: If you have peripheral artery disease, taking nicotinamide riboside every day for a few months might help you walk a little farther, but the difference may be small and not guaranteed.