In this episode of Daily Value, we look inside the NAD+ wars - breaking down the science, the hype, and the controversy surrounding Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN). These two molecules have been promoted as keys to longevity, but the story is far more complex. We’ll look at the biochemistry of NAD+ metabolism, compare what the research really says about NR and NMN, and dig into the regulatory drama that’s shaped their (NMN’s) availability. Most importantly, we’'ll look at a bigger-picture strategy for restoring NAD+, one that goes beyond precursors alone.

00:00 the NAD Wars

01:02 Understanding NAD+ and Its Importance

01:52 The Role of NR and NMN in NAD+ Replenishment

02:29 Biochemical Pathways of NAD+ Production

04:14 Challenges and Regulatory Issues with NMN and NR

05:44 Clinical Research and Safety Profiles

07:13 Complexities in Boosting NAD+ Levels

09:04 Multi-Targeted Strategies for NAD+ Restoration

13:25 Conclusion: Embracing Complexity in Aging

PMID: 35134387

PMID: 39026037

doi:10.1002/fft2.511

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Vitamin D recommendations in 1941 began this debate. Over the years, updated guidelines have continued to spark controversy and debate in the field of vitamin D research.

In this episode of Daily Value, we look at the recent “Vitamin D-ilemma” reinvigorated by the Endocrine Society's updated 2024 guidelines. These new recommendations have dialed back routine testing and supplementation targets, igniting pushback from leading researchers who argue we might be overlooking significant health benefits (including reduced risks for 8 out of the top 10 leading causes of death). Join us as we Look at the evolving science behind vitamin D, why randomized trials and observational studies seem to tell different stories, and how you can practically navigate these conflicting recommendations to optimize your own health.

00:00 Introduction: The Vitamin D Controversy

01:00 Historical Guidelines and Shifts

01:54 The 2011 Guidelines and Their Impact

03:57 The 2024 Update: A New Debate

06:13 Understanding Vitamin D's Role in the Body

07:29 Clinical Trials vs. Observational Studies

09:13 Health Benefits of Higher Vitamin D Levels

11:58 Challenges in Vitamin D Research

15:56 Practical Recommendations for Optimal Vitamin D

19:32 Conclusion: Striving for Optimal Health

PMID: 39861407

PMID: 38828961

PMID: 37004709

PMID: 30992519

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Debunking Myths: The safety and side effects of creatine supplementation. In this episode of Daily Value we look into the safety concerns surrounding creatine supplementation. Creatine, a well-researched dietary supplement known for its muscle-building and performance-enhancing benefits, has sparked numerous myths about its effects on kidneys, hair loss, and dehydration. We will evaluate recent studies and scientific evidence to address these myths.

Topics include creatine's impact on water retention, kidney function, and hair health. Tune in to discover the truth about one of the most studied and [possibly safest] supplements available.

00:00 Introduction: Creatine Myths

00:46 Dietary Intake and Muscle Storage

01:28 Creatine's Cognitive and Anti-Aging Benefits

02:10 Addressing Common Creatine Myths

03:05 Myth 1: Creatine and Water Retention

04:26 Myth 2: Creatine and Kidney Function

08:11 Myth 3: Creatine and Hair Loss

09:42 Comprehensive Safety Analysis

10:37 Conclusion: Is Creatine Safe

PMID: 31375416

PMID: 39778146

PMID: 40265319

PMID: 40198156

PMID: 39796530

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In this episode of Daily Value, we look at a forgotten compound found in common vegetables such as kale, spinach, and broccoli. Discovered in the 1930s and initially thought to be a vitamin (dubbed “Vitamin P”), this compound has recently demonstrated significant potential in neuroprotection.

This compound may soon become an essential component in neuroprotective and longevity formulations.

00:00 Introduction to Brain Health Molecules

00:19 The Forgotten Flavonoid

01:08 Historical Background

01:59 Neuroprotective Properties

02:51 Mechanisms of Action in Brain Health

03:34 Recent Research and Findings

05:25 Broader Implications and Applications

06:48 Challenges and Future Directions

07:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

https://actaneurocomms.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40478-025-01927-y

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.565700/full

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332223010065

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In this episode of Daily Value, we look at newer research on melatonin that challenges conventional wisdom. A recent meta‐analysis questions current clinical guidelines on melatonin use for sleep, suggesting there may be a dual (Dose X Time effect) secret to optimizing its effects. We’ll break down the scientific clues behind optimal dosing, timing, and formulation, leaving you to wonder if you've been taking melatonin all wrong.

Discussion Points:

• The clinical recommendations for melatonin may be “off”.
• What a recent meta-analysis (PMID: 38888087) suggests as better dosing and timing of melatonin.
• Formulation differences between fast-acting and extended-release melatonin.
• Practical tips for tailoring melatonin to boost your sleep quality.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38888087/

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In this episode of Daily Value, we look at the latest research on B vitamins and their in neuropsychiatric disorders. A newly published meta-analysis suggests a causal relationship between B vitamin deficiencies and neuropsychiatric disorders. We will break down the scientific findings on B6, B12, and folate, shedding light on their roles in conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

Discussion Points:

• How recent genetic studies support a causal link between B vitamin deficiencies and mental health conditions.
• The role of B vitamins in reducing neurotoxicity and slowing brain atrophy.
• How vitamin B12 may protect against dopamine neuron loss and disease progression.
• Evidence linking low B6 levels to neurotransmitter imbalances and schizophrenia risk.
• The impact of folate on one-carbon metabolism and its protective role in neurodegeneration.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763425000685#:~:text=In a meta-analysis of,beneficial for certain specific diseases.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26757190/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32257364/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858560/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32424116/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33941768/

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In today’s episode of Daily Value, we explore the possibly underappreciated role of vitamin K in brain health and neuroprotection. Recent research (doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1396707) reveals a connection between dietary vitamin K intake and reduced levels of neurofilament light chain, a potential biomarker for neurodegeneration, particularly in middle-aged and older adults. We’ll discuss how vitamin K supports neuronal function, what specific forms of vitamin K are most important, and how this nutrient might help slow cognitive decline as we age.

Episode Talking Points:

*The role of neurofilament light chain as a biomarker for brain health and its association with neurodegeneration.
*Findings from a recent study (doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1396707) showing how higher vitamin K intake (and a specific amount) is linked to lower neurofilament light chain levels.
*The potential of vitamin K, and possibly MK-4, to protect neurons through mechanisms like sphingolipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory effects.

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1396707/full

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In this episode of Daily Value, we look at the emerging research on creatine supplementation in women’s health—beyond its well-established role in exercise performance. With evidence mounting on creatine’s impact across menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause, we discuss how it supports cognition, mood stabilization, and bone health throughout a woman’s lifespan.

Discussion Points:

• Creatine & Hormonal Fluctuations: How estrogen and progesterone influence creatine uptake and metabolism.
• Cognitive & Mood Benefits: The role of creatine in reducing brain fog, fatigue, and potentially postpartum depression.
• Pregnancy & Fetal Development: How maternal creatine status may impact fetal neurodevelopment and birth outcomes.
• Menopause & Bone Health: The effect of creatine on osteoblast activity, muscle preservation, and sarcopenia prevention.
• Dosing Guidelines for Women

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7998865/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39796530/

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