Are you noticing your physical or mental abilities diminish with age? NAD is a supplement that may help boost a special coenzyme in your body that aids in improving metabolism and cellular energy production.
If you want to make sure your body has what it needs to help you battle age-related decline, stick around as we dive deep into the important question: What is NAD supplement and how does it work?
What Is NAD?
Every single cell in your body needs energy to do its job, like building things or cleaning up waste. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a crucial coenzyme fueling the whole operation. It exists in two forms: NAD+ and NADH (which is short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide + hydrogen).
NAD+ is the helper that grabs onto energy released from food and carries it, becoming NADH in the process. NADH then takes the energy to another part of the cell, where the energy is used to power different metabolic activities. After it drops off the energy, NADH becomes NAD+ again, ready to pick up more energy.
Role of NAD in Energy Production (ATP)
NAD’s crucial role in electron transfer fuels energy production via processes like glycolysis and the electron transport chain. This fundamental function suggests its potential impact on energy-related issues like chronic fatigue syndrome and the overall health of the immune system.
Importance of DNA Repair and Cellular Health
NAD+ promotes DNA repair and cellular health by acting as a key component for enzymes like PARPs and sirtuins. These enzymes are vital for maintaining genome integrity and regulating stress response and metabolic health, potentially mitigating the effects of oxidative stress.
What Is NAD Supplement?
NAD supplements are designed to boost the level of NAD+ in the body. These supplements don’t contain any NAD, but exist in the form of precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) and niacin or nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) that the body can convert into NAD.
What Is NAD Supplement Good For?
Here’s what this fascinating molecule is all about and what it might do for you
Anti-Aging
NAD supports healthy aging by boosting cellular energy, DNA repair, and mitochondrial function, counteracting age-related decline in cellular activity. It also helps combat oxidative stress, crucial for maintaining cellular health.
Boosting Cellular Energy
Through accepting and donating electrons, NAD plays an essential role in energy transfer during various oxidation-reduction reactions. Some examples are glycolysis and the electron transport chain, which contribute to the synthesis of ATP.
Cognitive Benefits
Clinical trials indicated that NAD therapy lessened cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation (issues seen in aging and relevant to Parkinson’s disease), potentially linked to reduced brain blood flow [1].
Metabolism and Weight Management
NAD may aid weight loss by boosting adiponectin, a hormone that regulates metabolism, glucose utilization, and fatty acid oxidation, potentially improving insulin sensitivity [2].
DNA Repair and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
According to a 2020 study, NAD acts as a substrate for the enzymes PARP1 and SIRT1, which are directly involved in DNA repair and regulating the integrity of the genomic landscape [3].
Is NAD Supplement Safe?
NAD supplements are getting a lot of attention for their potential anti-aging and energy-boosting properties, but the big question on everyone’s mind is: Are they safe? Let’s unpack the science and get to the bottom of it.
Who Should Avoid NAD Supplements?
Those with liver or kidney issues, and pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, should avoid NAD supplements due to metabolism concerns and a lack of research.
NAD Supplement Dosage
If you’re wondering, how much NAD+ should I take? Various human studies have shown that taking nicotinamide riboside supplements in dosages of 1,000 – 2,000 mg per day had no harmful side effects [4].
How to Take NAD Supplements
NAD supplements can be taken at any time, with or without food, though early in the day may be best if you’re looking for an energy boost. For optimal results, incorporate NAD supplementation alongside a healthy diet and a suitable exercise program like VShred.
NAD vs Other Anti-Aging Supplements
Besides NAD, another anti-aging supplement that is currently classified as an investigational drug is nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which is also derived from vitamin B3. Regarding what’s better NMN or NAD, the research is still ongoing.
In addition, resveratrol (from grapes and red wine) and collagen (found in things like bone broth) are also being explored as anti-aging remedies, yet both require further research.
Expert Insights
In a 2021 study, researchers determined that an alteration in the NAD levels in the body can lead to a malfunctioning of the biological system and result in neurodegenerative disorders, aging, and DNA damage. The study also concluded that the therapeutic use of NAD+ precursors is useful for boosting NAD levels to limit aging and neurodegenerative processes [5].
FAQs on NAD Supplements
Do NAD supplements work? Here are some pertinent customer questions on the subject.
What is NAD Supplement Used For?
Research has shown that NAD supplements can be used to improve cognitive function and boost energy levels in older adults [1].
Are There Any Dangers of Taking NAD Supplements?
In dosages of 1,000 – 2,000 mg, NAD is considered safe when taken by healthy adults. Some minor side effects like headaches, dizziness, and nervousness have been reported.
Is NAD the Same as Vitamin B3?
No. NAD is considered the bioactive form of vitamin B3 because vitamin B3 is converted to NAD.
Who Should Not Use NAD?
NAD supplements aren’t recommended for individuals with liver or kidney issues, or pregnant and breastfeeding people.
Conclusion
NAD has been determined in studies to boost many of our cellular processes that decline with age. Derived from vitamin B3, it’s also relatively safe to take and easily tolerable for most people. But consult a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.
So, what is the best NAD supplement? The two main contenders are NMN and NR, both showing promise in boosting NAD+. Beyond this, consider the brand’s reputation, whether they do third-party testing, the dosage, and your budget.