NAD+ is a popular supplement that is touted as an anti-aging miracle. But this humble coenzyme’s abilities extend far beyond the realm of fine lines and wrinkles. Keep reading to learn more about the role NAD+ in the body and how it goes beyond skin deep to boost energy, immunity, and even longevity.
What Is NAD+?
NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a critical role in energy metabolism and cellular repair by helping enzymes carry out essential biological processes. NAD exists in two forms: NAD+ (the active form) and NADH (the reduced form), which are necessary for maintaining cellular function.
What Does NAD+ Do for the Body?
NAD+ is involved in several key processes, including:
- Energy Production – NAD+ is essential in cellular respiration, particularly in glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. It helps convert nutrients into ATP (the cell’s energy currency).
- Electron Carrier – NAD+ acts as an electron acceptor in redox reactions, shuttling electrons from one molecule to another. When it gains electrons, it becomes NADH, which is later used to generate ATP.
- DNA Repair & Cell Longevity – NAD+ is involved in repairing DNA damage and maintaining genome stability, which is important for longevity and disease prevention.
- Regulating Cellular Processes – It interacts with sirtuins, proteins that influence aging, inflammation, and stress resistance.
NAD+ & Aging:
As we age, NAD+ levels decline, which is linked to reduced mitochondrial function and increased risk of age-related diseases. Some research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels through supplements like Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) or Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) may help support cellular health and slow the aging process.
What Else Depletes NAD+ Levels?
In addition to natural depletion due to aging, there are certain other factors that can lower your NAD+ levels:
Chronic Stress – Prolonged physical or psychological stress increases oxidative stress, which consumes more NAD+ for cellular repair and energy production.
Poor Diet & Nutrient Deficiency – Low intake of niacin (vitamin B3), tryptophan, and other precursors can reduce NAD+ synthesis.
Inflammation – Chronic inflammation from infections, autoimmune diseases, or metabolic disorders leads to increased NAD+ consumption in immune and repair processes.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption – Alcohol metabolism requires NAD+, leading to depletion and potential mitochondrial dysfunction.
High Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance – Conditions like type 2 diabetes increase NAD+ consumption due to oxidative stress and metabolic imbalances.
Sleep Deprivation – Disrupted circadian rhythms and poor sleep affect NAD+ metabolism, reducing levels in the body.
Toxin Exposure – Environmental toxins, such as pollution, heavy metals, and pesticides, increase oxidative damage, which requires NAD+ for repair.
Excessive UV Radiation – Sun exposure damages DNA, and NAD+ is heavily used in DNA repair mechanisms.
Certain Medications – Some drugs, including chemotherapy agents and antibiotics, can impact mitochondrial function and deplete NAD+ levels.
What Happens When NAD+ Is Low?
Because this coenzyme is central to how our body’s utilize energy, low levels most often present as a persistent feeling of tiredness, even after adequate sleep. You may find you also have reduced exercise endurance or that your muscles feel weak.
But as we have discussed, NAD+ is a key player in the body’s metabolic processes, which regulate more than just energy. You may notice the following if your levels are too low:
1. Cognitive Decline (“Brain Fog”)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems (Low levels have been linked with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)
- Slower mental processing
2. Metabolic & Weight Issues
- Insulin resistance
- Slower metabolism, which makes it harder to lose weight
- Increased cravings for sugar and processed foods
3. Poor Sleep Quality
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Disrupted circadian rhythm
4. Mood Disorders
- Increased anxiety or depression
- Higher stress sensitivity
5. Weak Immune Function
- Frequent infections or slow recovery from illness
6. Muscle & Joint Pain
- Increased inflammation
- Muscle soreness without much physical exertion
7. Skin Aging & Poor Recovery
- More wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity
- Slow wound healing
8. Increased Sensitivity to Stress
- Difficulty adapting to physical or emotional stress
- Feeling “burned out” easily
9. Cardiovascular Issues
- Higher blood pressure
- Poor circulation
How Do You Take NAD+?
There are several ways to supplement NAD+, each with varying degrees of efficacy:
NAD+ Precursors (Oral Supplements)
Since NAD+ itself is poorly absorbed when taken orally, most people take precursors, which the body can then convert into NAD+:
- Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) – Typically taken in doses of 250-500 mg/day.
- Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) – Usually 250-1000 mg/day.
Sublingual
Some forms of NAD+ and NMN come in sublingual (under the tongue) tablets or powders. This method bypasses digestion and allows for faster absorption through the oral mucosa.
IV Therapy (Intravenous)
This method delivers the coenzyme directly into the bloodstream for immediate absorption. Although it is the most effective route, it does require medical supervision and sessions can last between 1-4 hours.
Injections
These are given as subcutaneous (under the skin) or intramuscular injections. They are typically done at a clinic, but some get prescriptions for at-home use. Since they bypass the digestive system and are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly, they are the second best route of administration for supplementation. An injection appointment is also far faster than IV infusion.
Nasal Spray
The nasal spray version is spritzed in one or both nostrils where it is absorbed through the nasal mucosa. Like the sublingual variations, this allows for better absorption than the oral route. Intranasal NAD+ preferable for those looking for a less invasive and more cost effective alternative to injections or IV.
Is It Safe to Take NAD+ Every Day?
NAD+ supplements and injections are considered safe when taken in appropriate doses (usually no more than 12 weeks.) and monitored by a healthcare professional. Never begin any supplementation program without first consulting with your doctor.
How Can You Increase NAD+ Levels Naturally?
In addition to supplementation, you can support your body’s ability to create NAD+ naturally with a few steps:
1. Increase NAD+ Precursors in Your Diet
- Niacin (Vitamin B3) – Found in chicken, fish, peanuts, mushrooms, and avocados.
- Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) & Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) – Found in small amounts in milk, broccoli, cucumbers, and cabbage. These are direct precursors that can help boost NAD+ levels.
- Tryptophan – An amino acid in turkey, dairy, seeds, and eggs that helps synthesize NAD+.
2. Practice Intermittent Fasting
- Fasting stimulates NAD+ production and activates sirtuins, which play a role in longevity and cellular repair.
3. Engage in Regular Exercise
- Both aerobic exercise (running, swimming, cycling) and resistance training (weight lifting) increase NAD+ levels by enhancing mitochondrial function. One review found that participants of a 10 week weight resistance program (2 sessions per week) increased their NAD+ levels by 127%!
4. Prioritize Quality Sleep
- A well-regulated sleep cycle (7-9 hours per night) supports NAD+ metabolism and mitochondrial efficiency.
5. Reduce Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Since alcohol metabolism depletes NAD+, limiting intake can help preserve levels.
6. Minimize Processed Sugar & Refined Carbs
- High sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, which increases oxidative stress and depletes NAD+.
7. Heat & Cold Therapy
- Cold Exposure (cold showers, ice baths) and Heat Therapy (saunas, hot baths) both stimulate NAD+ production and mitochondrial resilience.
8. Reduce Stress & Manage Inflammation
- Remember that chronic stress and inflammation accelerate NAD+ depletion. Practices like meditation, yoga, and anti-inflammatory diets (rich in omega-3s, turmeric, and green tea) can help.
9. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure
- UV damage increases the demand for NAD+ in DNA repair. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposed for long periods.
Omaha Anti Aging Clinic
NAD+ plays an integral role in slowing the body’s aging process on a cellular level. This extends to more than just your skin and hair–it counteracts inflammation, repairs DNA, and reduces oxidative stress in your body’s tissues.
In Omaha, Balanced Body Health & Wellness offers intranasal NAD+ and NAD+ injections. Both are a safe, effective way to restore the NAD+ we lose naturally as we age, or to replenish what has been lost due to chronic stress, toxins, or other factors. If you’re interested in NAD injections in Omaha, contact our office today or go online to schedule a free Discovery Call to see if this supplement is right for you.
