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What is Trigonelline? A Brief Overview

Trigonelline is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid that is present in coffee and fenugreek.


According to research, Trigonelline may positively benefit:

  • Healthy aging and longevity

  • Improved athletic performance

  • Improved memory and neurological function

  • Healthy blood sugar levels


Recent research indicates it is a precursor to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), a crucial coenzyme involved in various cellular processes, including energy metabolism, DNA repair, and gene expression. Trigonelline can increase NAD+ levels in muscle tissue unlike other NAD+ precursors, which may improve athletic performance by enhancing exercise capacity and reducing fatigue.


Trigonelline is an NAD+ precursor that improves muscle function

Trigonelline is a naturally occurring alkaloid compound that can be found in various plants, including coffee beans and fenugreek seeds. It has been present in these plants in small amounts for centuries, but its potential health benefits have only recently been studied.


What are the Benefits of Trigonelline?


Research suggests that trigonelline has several potential benefits including healthy aging, cellular energy, muscular growth and performance, improved neurological function, and improving memory.


  • Increasing NAD+ levels : Trigonelline has been shown to act as a precursor to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme essential for various cellular processes. As we age, our NAD+ levels decline, which can contribute to the aging process and age-related diseases. Starting around age 30, our NAD+ levels drop by roughly 1% per year.


  • Improved athletic performance: Studies have found that trigonelline can increase NAD+ levels in muscle tissue, leading to improved exercise capacity, reduced fatigue, and enhanced physical performance.


  • Potential anti-aging effects: By increasing NAD+ levels, trigonelline may help mitigate the effects of aging on various cellular processes, potentially supporting healthy aging and longevity.


  • Improved memory and neurological function: In studies, Trigonelline has been shown to have a positive effect on memory and healthy blood sugar levels which may provide benefit for Alzheimer Disease and Diabetes.



Who Might be Interested in Trigonelline?


The following individuals might be interested in learning more about trigonelline:


  • Fitness enthusiasts and athletes : Those looking to improve their physical performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance recovery may find trigonelline's benefits appealing.


  • Health-conscious individuals : People interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and supporting their overall well-being through natural means might be interested in learning more about trigonelline.


  • Researchers and scientists : Those studying the effects of aging on cellular processes and seeking to understand the potential health benefits of NAD+ precursors may be particularly interested in trigonelline.


Trigonelline as a Dietary Supplement


A new Nestlé study about trigonelline indicates that trigonelline can be added to the list of dietary NAD+ boosters. At the time of writing (September 2024), trigonelline is not yet an approved dietary supplement by the FDA. This is due to research and studies only recently being conducted on the substance.


“Our work highlights that the NAD+-boosting capabilities of different precursors vary across tissues and experimental models according to the relative activity of different branches of NAD+ biosynthesis,” the researchers wrote.


Trigonelline is an NAD+ precursor, meaning that it raises NAD+ levels in the body. Other NAD+ precursors exist such as NMN (Nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (Nicotinamide riboside), both of which are available in raw form and can be purchased online. However, trigonelline is the newest NAD+ cursor to be researched and is not readily available for purchase online. It stands out from NMN and NR in it's ability to raise NAD+ levels directly in muscle tissue, which is something NR and NMN are not able to do.


“Trigonelline contributes to the NAD+ pool via a more indirect route than the ribosylated precursors NR and NMN, but our comparative studies demonstrate that trigonelline has similar cellular and physiological benefits to NA and NR in cells or nematodes, most probably because of its higher stability than ribosylated precursors.”


“We were excited to discover through collaborative research that a natural molecule from food cross-talks with cellular hallmarks of aging,” said Jerome Feige, head of the physical health department at Nestlé Research and corresponding author on the new paper. “The benefits of trigonelline on cellular metabolism and muscle health during aging opens promising translational applications.”


How is Trigonelline Used?


While there is limited research on the direct use of trigonelline as a supplement, it is found naturally in small amounts in coffee and fenugreek. The studies and research that has been conducted to date have used a purified, isolated form of trigonelline in controlled settings. However, trigonelline is not currently widely available for purchase in its isolated form.


  • Coffee : Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with increased levels of trigonelline.


  • Fenugreek supplements : Some supplements contain fenugreek extract, which may provide a source of trigonelline.


Trigonelline Safety and Precautions


As with any new compound or supplement, it's essential to approach trigonelline with caution. While research suggests that trigonelline is generally safe, more studies are needed to fully understand its potential side effects and interactions. If you're considering adding trigonelline to your routine, consult with a healthcare professional first.


Future Research Directions

Ongoing research aims to further elucidate the benefits and mechanisms of action associated with trigonelline. Potential areas of focus include:


  • Mechanistic studies : Investigating how trigonelline increases NAD+ levels in muscle tissue.

  • Clinical trials : Conducting human clinical trials to confirm the efficacy and safety of trigonelline supplements.


As research continues, we can expect a more comprehensive understanding of trigonelline's potential benefits and uses.

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