The supplement NAD+, which is little-known but helps the body with everything from metabolism to healthy aging, has gained attention lately.
This guide aims to provide you with an overview of current research on the role of NAD+ in aging and the advantages of NAD+ supplements.
What Is NAD+?
Coenzyme NAD+, also known as Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is essential for cellular communication and energy production. It is a part of many metabolic processes, one of which is the transformation of nutrients into energy. Age-related processes have been connected to the decline in NAD+ levels that occurs with age.
Furthermore, despite the fact that the supplement is made from niacin (vitamin B3), NAD+ and vitamin B3 are completely different. We must obtain vitamin B3 through our diets as it is a necessary vitamin. NAD+ is a coenzyme which is derived from Vitamin B3.
What are the benefits of NAD+?
Supplementing with NAD+ or its precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside, nicotinamide mononucleotide, NMN, or nicotinamide riboside, may have benefits such as improved metabolism, DNA repair, greater cellular activity, and maybe a slower rate of aging.
1. Potentially Helps Repair Cells and Damaged DNA
There is evidence from certain research that supplementing with NAD+ precursors increases the repair of DNA damage. Nicotinamide and ADP-ribose, the two byproducts of NAD+ breakdown, interact with proteins to repair cells.
According to a 2022 study, NAD+ aids in the regulation of several elements of gene expression, damage repair, and DNA integrity.
2. Improves cognitive function
Age-related changes in the brain are associated with variations in NAD+ and NADH levels. Decreased levels of NAD+ have been associated with weariness, worry, and depression, as well as cognitive fog. Cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity are all impacted by both types of NAD.
NAD+ may have neuroprotective qualities and, under some circumstances, be able to enhance brain function, according to some studies.
3. May reduce aging
Your levels of NAD+ decrease with aging. Your midlife NAD+ levels are half of what they were when you were younger. Restoring NAD+ to your body may prolong your life and shield you from age-related illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s.
What Else You Should Know Before Trying NAD Supplements
Remember that even though NAD supplements are over-the-counter (OTC), there may still be dangers involved. These supplements may not be harmless because they are comparable to niacin, which in certain cases can cause major liver or muscle problems when taken in pharmaceutical doses.
What are the symptoms of NAD+ deficiency?
NAD+ deficiency can show up as a number of symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, immune system impairment, cognitive decline, and muscle weakness. It can be difficult to diagnose NAD+ deficiency based only on symptoms, though, as these manifestations may coexist with other medical conditions.
So, that’s everything you need to know about NAD+. If you’ve made the decision to go ahead, all we can recommend is a couple NAD+ supplements.
