Digestive Enzymes (Broad Spectrum) vs NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)

Mechanism

Broad-spectrum digestive enzyme complexes supplement endogenous pancreatic and brush border enzyme production. Key enzymes include: lipase (triglyceride hydrolysis to fatty acids/glycerol), protease/peptidase (protein to amino acids via peptide bond cleavage), amylase (starch to maltose/glucose), lactase (lactose to glucose/galactose), cellulase (plant fiber breakdown), and invertase (sucrose hydrolysis). They reduce osmotic load in the small intestine, decrease bacterial fermentation of undigested substrate, and improve nutrient bioavailability.

Standard Dosing

1-2 capsules with each main meal

Timing

Immediately before or at the start of each meal. Not needed for small snacks.

Cycle Duration

ongoing as needed

Side Effects

• GI cramping if taken without food
• Allergic reactions (rare)
• Mouth ulcers from chewing enzyme capsules
• Perianal irritation from lipase at very high doses

Contraindications

• Acute pancreatitis
• Known allergy to enzyme sources (porcine, fungal, fruit-derived)

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

NR is converted to NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinases (NRK1/NRK2), then to NAD+ via the salvage pathway. Like NMN, elevated NAD+ activates sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38. NR has demonstrated ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and elevate brain NAD+ levels. It supports mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and circadian rhythm regulation through SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of BMAL1 and CLOCK proteins.

Standard Dosing

300-600mg daily

Timing

Morning with or without food.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Mild nausea
• Warmth/flushing (mild)
• GI upset
• Fatigue in some during initial days

Contraindications

• Active cancer (same theoretical NAD+ concern as NMN)
• Pregnancy/lactation
• Theoretical cancer concern shared with NMN

Best Stacking Partners