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Basis by Elysium
Summary
Basis is a dietary supplement from Elysium that is designed to promote healthy aging at the cellular level by boosting your NAD+.
Basis by Elysium Review: What You Should Know
By Anthony Dugarte, M.D., C.S.C.S
Updated on: Mar 16, 2020
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Elysium claims that Basis will promote healthy aging at the cellular level by boosting your Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+).
More specifically, taking 2 Basis capsules daily is intended to:
- Promote healthy cellular aging
- Activate sirtuins, proteins that regular cellular health
- Boost energy
- Maintain healthy DNA
- Help Sustain cellular functions
According to Elysium, these effects are made possible by the combination of just two ingredients.
While the proposed benefits of Basis certainly sound desirable, can this supplement actually help you achieve them?
In this article, we’ll review the available research, if any, that backs Elysium’s claims. But first, let’s discuss the roles of NAD+.
What Is NAD+?
NAD+ is a molecule that plays a significant role in how your body creates energy.
When you eat, your body digests and absorbs the nutrients available in each meal and uses them to fuel the Citric Acid Cycle – a series of reactions that generate NADH.
In turn, this form of NAD is used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – the energy your body needs for every chemical reaction.
Your NAD+ levels diminish over time; low levels may be associated with reduced energy, poor sleep, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, or even some forms of cancer.
Effectiveness of Ingredients
Though Basis combines two ingredients in each serving, the real star of the show is nicotinamide riboside (NR).
Pterostilbene (PT) – 50mg
PT is similar in structure to resveratrol, the phenol found in grapes that is responsible for the antioxidant effects of wine. Similarly, PT may offer anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving effects.
Most of the available scientific support has been in laboratory and animal models, however.
The available support in human subjects often pairs PT with NR. This combination was found to elevate cholesterol levels, while NR alone did not.
While this side effect can be harmful in those with cardiovascular disease, Basis has been tested as a stand-alone product – we’ll talk more about the adverse events reported in this study later.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) – 250mg
NR is related to vitamin B3 and is found naturally in small amounts in milk. Its ability to boost NAD has been well-studied.
The NR in Basis is an NAD+ precursor; once ingested, it is converted to NAD+ through a series of reactions.
In earlier laboratory studies, NAD+ precursors demonstrated an ability to elevate NAD+ levels. Next, the efficacy of oral formulations was displayed in animal models.
This work was eventually applied to human subjects.
In 8 healthy individuals, NR was given at doses ranging from 250–2000mg. These doses safely and effectively boosted NAD+ levels.
In another study, 2000mg of NR daily for 12-weeks boosted NAD+ in obese men, though it did not improve insulin sensitivity, resting energy expenditure, or body composition.
So far, the research points to an ability for NR to boost NAD+ in laboratory models, animals, and human subjects, though the benefit of this action is still unclear.
The Basis Randomized Trial
Basis was studied as a stand-alone product in a recent randomized trial.
Healthy subjects aged 60–80 received either placebo, 250/50mg (NR/PT), or 500/100mg. Both Basis doses increase NAD+, though higher doses were associated with greater increases.
They also found that Basis may benefit liver function and mobility in elderly patients.
Safety
The ingredients offered in Basis have been well-studied. Additionally, Basis was tested as a stand-alone product.
Information for safety is available for multiple dosing regimens, though only for up to 3-months and in those 40-80 years old. Nonetheless, NR dosing up to 2000mg was safe.
Concerning Basis, mild adverse effects were described. These included nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and abdominal pain.
While this supplement is generally safe, more research is necessary to characterize the long-term use of NR fully. Speak with your doctor before use to limit unwanted effects.
Pricing
Right now, Basis is only available directly from the Elysium site. They offer several purchasing options, and all orders ship free.
If you’re interested in single-bottle orders, you’ll pay $60 each. If you plan on using Basis monthly, there are more cost-effective options.
Elysium also offers an auto-ship plan. You can choose to pay $50 monthly, $270 for 6-months, or $480 for the year.
Lastly, you should be aware that all orders are considered final sale. Based on Elysium’s terms and conditions, you’ll have difficulty getting a refund. Further inquiries can be addressed by contacting customer support at care@elysiumhealth.com or (888) 220-6436.
Alternatives
Though NAD+ boosting supplements are a more recent phenomenon, there is a handful currently available.
TRU Niagen is one example. At $40, you’ll save about $20 when compared to a single bottle purchase of Basis. Also, TRU Niagen provides 50mg more NR in each dose.
Life Extension offers another option. They offer 30 capsules of NAD+ Cell Regenerator for just $18. Keep in mind that Basis and TRU Niagen offer 2.5–3x the NR found in each capsule of NAD+ Cell regenerator.
You may need 2 or 3 capsules to see benefits, which means your 30-day supply will only last 10-15 days.
The Bottom Line
Publishing a study with human subjects works in Elysium’s favor, though the results mainly support its ability to elevate NAD+ levels in healthy individuals aged 60–80. These individuals may also experience enhanced liver function and mobility.
Whether or not boosting NAD+ can translate into the other claims made by Elysium remains unclear, however.
More work is needed to characterize the effects of NAD+ boosting supplements like Basis. As the hype seems to be ahead of the research, a more cost-effective NAD+ boosting supplement may be a better starting point.
Basis is likely safe to use, though speaking to your doctor before use is a good idea. Your symptoms may be caused by a condition that requires more than a dietary supplement to manage, so take steps to identify the source before treating them.
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Leave A ReviewCustomer Reviews
Posted on Sep 10, 2016
They make it difficult to stop automatic shipments
I didn't think I signed up for automatic shipments, but I guess it's part of the program. They don't answer the phone, they don't call you back when you leave a message. Their customer service is awful, giving you the impression that it's all about the money to them. It feels like a scam to me, and I've noticed no difference from taking the $50 a month pills.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
11 People Have Voted
Posted on Dec 1, 2016
SCAM! Tried to cancel and they just keep sending.
After seeing no benefit from the Basis product and finding that I could get the same mix at Amazon much cheaper, I started trying to cancel my monthly subscription. 4 months, 5 emails and 3 phone calls later they still are shipping to me. I am going to try BBB, small claims court, and ask my credit card company to cancel any future payments. Note that some time ago I sent them a message asking about a competitive product, the answer was misinformed and showed no knowledge of their product or any other.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
13 People Have Voted
Posted on May 8, 2017
Did NOT do anything it claimed to do!
I purchased the 1-year program in July of 2016.
I have some health issues including nerve damage to my left ear, neuropathy, and brain damage.
This supplement claimed to reverse or improve my situation. It was like taking a placebo except, my MD has now referred me to Nephrology, as my MD believes this supplement has caused damage to my pancreas, liver, and kidneys.
Not all medicines are for everyone, and that goes for supplements, too! I did try and call them but got a voice mail saying they would call me back. I called during office hours: 09:00-17:00 EST today. I'm thinking a small claims court filing should satisfy at least the cost of the product that has done this damage to my internal organs.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
15 People Have Voted
Posted on Oct 28, 2017
Circumstances have changed and I won't buy Elysium product
I am updating the review to low since Elysium isn't purchasing their Niagen from ChromaDex anymore. And, the product sold by Elysium is now alleged to be contaminated with the toxin Toluene. Read online from attorney Shelly Albaum.
I gained tremendous benefit from the usage of Niagen and Pterostilbene combo. Elysium used to source them through ChromaDex. My purchases are now from Amazon.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
97 People Have Voted
Posted on Dec 26, 2017
Reaction
I had a bad reaction taking this and developed severe pain in my arms. I'm on Aspirin therapy, so I'm guessing this caused a reaction. After stopping, the pain went away, so I would not take this if you're on meds like me.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
23 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 10, 2018
No effect at all
As a Microbiologist and Doctor, I was intrigued by the claims. My wife and I both took two capsules daily at the same time in the morning. Neither of us can say it had any noticeable effect on us at all. We are still as tired as ever, LOL. No extra energy or pep.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
26 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 19, 2018
Forget reviewing the product
I would love to have the ability to write a review of my own, but just getting the product to the customer seems to be a problem for this company.
I watched as they told me it was delivered via Elysium's tracker and rushed home to find nothing. I logged into a screen message that said don't worry it might appear over the next few days in the shrubs or with a neighbor? I asked all my neighbors and checked all around, waited four days, and called the company. Nothing but voicemail. I left my info three times and finally got an email and a voicemail from Elysium saying they were sorry and are sending an overnight replacement out. Three days later FedEx calls me and tells me they have my name and my cell but I have the wrong address so they can't talk to me about the package but only give me the name of the company that sent it, Fosdik, which I assume is some Elysium distributor as I am expecting no other package.
Regardless, I am over it. If they can take my money right away, they can get my info correct and get me the product in the same fashion. I am canceling my monthly and will be looking for a different supplier to try this product.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
19 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 22, 2018
Elysium beware
I ordered Elysium after reading about it and many reviews. It seemed like a good idea. As a science type approach to my supplements, the only variable was the addition of Elysium to my daily routine. I don't know if cellular energy is supposed to be painful, but after a couple of days, I noticed aches and pains in parts of my body that don't normally experience that; shoulders, neck, legs. Some days it felt as though everything just hurt.
And it didn't help with my sleeping. My strength actually declined and going to the gym and/or running was becoming a chore not the enjoyable adventure of pushing myself as before.
I continued, thinking maybe it was just my body getting used to a new substance. However, I got tired of feeling like you know what.
I stopped taking Elysium after about three weeks (that was two days ago), and I am starting to feel "normal" again. The gym tonight was awesome; that aggressive approach that is actually fun.
I don't know if this is a unique perhaps side effect that only happened to me, but I thought enough of it to write this review to give folks another viewpoint.
I am very physically active, have been since my teens; I am now in my 50's and am not slowing down.
As for the one star, it wouldn't let me leave no stars. No supplement should make anyone feel that bad.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
23 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 29, 2018
Auto shipping
This is the second time in six months I’ve run out of product due to their inability to ship on time. I can reach them on the phone, but nothing changes. They just don’t seem to care.
I’m going to try Amazon.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
15 People Have Voted
Posted on Oct 8, 2018
Clearly a scam
Basis is a slow poison and you won't notice its effects unless you take it for a long time.
I have been taking Basis for some time now, and I have started to get anxiety for small things which never used to happen before. I have completely stopped taking it, though I don't know if I will be normal again. I didn't see any difference in sleep or waking up more refreshed/energetic.
I do know that Elysium people will do anything for money. I had taken a yearly subscription, but after I started feeling too much anxiety, I asked them to cancel my subscription and refund the remaining money. I also offered them to charge individual purchase rate for the months, they have sent me the Basis, but they flatly refused.
Their mantra is money, money, money.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
11 People Have Voted
Posted on Jun 22, 2019
Body aches and decreased strength
1) I thought I would try this product based on some online info.
2) Tendons and muscles started aching after about 2-3 weeks, especially arms and shoulders.
3) Strength was decreased.
4) My mood was depressed. I didn't seem to have energy.
5) Pushed through the aches and mood for about 3 months, and then cut back to half dose. No change, so STOPPED taking it after month 4.
6) Just checked my credit card statement and saw a recurring charge, which is a month too early. I tried to contact them to cancel. Their website would not open and the phone number (888-220-4636) rings busy.
7) I will try again and I will dispute the charge with my card issuer, if the charge is not refunded.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Helpful Review?
5 People Have Voted
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