What is Trigonelline?
Trigonelline is a plant alkaloid found in coffee and fenugreek. It is gaining traction for its potential to support muscle health, endurance, cardiovascular function, energy, cognition, and metabolic function. It hasn’t been commercially available in raw form until recently.
Trigonelline is a powerhouse that aids in muscle growth and muscular endurance. It is a precursor to NAD+, which has a host of benefits including increases mitochondrial function and providing a clean boost of energy and increased cognition.
Nestlé's Trigonelline Study
A 2024 study published in Nature Metabolism, conducted by researchers from EPFL in collaboration with the Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences identifies Trigonelline as a novel precursor to NAD+, a critical molecule for cellular energy production.
Trigonelline is the only known NAD+ precursor able to affect muscular NAD+ levels. This unique effect makes Trigonelline especially promising for improving muscle strength, endurance, and recovery [1][2].
Why Trigonelline Matters for Active Individuals and Biohackers
Whether you’re an endurance runner, strength trainer, weekend warrior, or wanting to optimize the way your body ages, optimal mitochondrial function is critical to sustained performance and cognition. Trigonelline offers a natural approach to support that function, helping you:
- Increase muscular endurance
- Reduce exercise-induced fatigue
- Improve post-workout recovery
- Maintain muscle strength as you age
As part of a balanced regimen that includes proper nutrition, sleep, and training, Trigonelline supplementation could offer a novel edge for athletes looking to maximize their physical output [1][2].
How Trigonelline Works: Mechanisms of Action
The key mechanism behind Trigonelline’s benefits lies in its ability to elevate NAD+ levels. NAD+ fuels essential metabolic pathways that maintain cellular energy, particularly within mitochondria. By boosting NAD+ availability, Trigonelline promotes better mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis. These enhancements translate to more efficient energy production in muscle cells, reduced fatigue, and potentially faster recovery after physical exertion [1].
Trigonelline's Impact on Muscle Strength and Endurance
A 2024 study published in Nature Metabolism explored how Trigonelline affects muscle function during aging. The researchers found that dietary Trigonelline supplementation increased NAD+ levels in muscle tissue, leading to enhanced mitochondrial function, improved endurance, and greater muscle strength in preclinical models. This indicates that Trigonelline may offer protection against age-related muscle decline and fatigue, making it a promising supplement for both older adults and active individuals looking to optimize muscle performance [1].
Trigonelline as a Natural Ally for Muscle Performance
Research supported by Nestlé and its scientific partners sheds light on Trigonelline’s potential to enhance muscular energy and strength through NAD+ biosynthesis. These early findings are exciting for athletes and aging adults alike, pointing to a natural compound that may help maintain strength, delay fatigue, and promote better long-term muscle health. As always, speak with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine—especially if you're managing a medical condition or currently taking medications.
Sources
[1] Martínez-Lozada, Z., Cantó, C., Giner, D., Soria, G., López-Otín, C., & Auwerx, J. (2024). Trigonelline is a novel NAD+ precursor enhancing muscle function during aging. Nature Metabolism. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38504132/
[2] Nestlé. (2024, March 26). Bioactive nutrient in coffee identified as new approach to support muscle health. https://www.nestle.com/about/research-development/news/bioactive-nutrients-muscle-health-support
