Anti-Aging Supplements and Cancer Treatment: A Warning
Over-the-counter anti-aging supplements taken by millions of Americans to boost energy and lessen chemotherapy side effects may actually impair cancer treatments, according to a new study.
Study Findings
Researchers at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine discovered that popular vitamin B3 derivatives—including nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide (NAM)—can help cancer cells survive chemotherapy. These compounds are used by the body to produce NAD+, a molecule that aids in energy production and cell repair.
Pancreatic Cancer Research
The study, published in Cancer Letters, explored these supplements' interactions with treatments for pancreatic cancer, a highly fatal form of the disease with a 13% five-year survival rate, as per the American Cancer Society. While boosting NAD+ levels through dietary supplements offers health benefits to non-cancerous cells, pancreatic cancer cells may exploit this extra resource to repair chemotherapy-induced damage and evade cell death.
Potential Impact
This research serves as a reminder that while anti-aging supplements are widely used, their effects on cancer treatment require further investigation. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals before incorporating any new supplements into your routine, especially if you're undergoing cancer treatment.