NAD+ is an acronym for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, an essential coenzyme required by every living cell in your body to help generate energy.

Without NAD, your heart wouldn’t pump blood through your veins. Your lungs wouldn’t pull in any air. And the neurons in your brain wouldn’t fire. None of the vital organs in your body would work at all without this key molecule.

NAD+ is like the oil in your car; it keeps your engine running smoothly. Keep reading to learn more about NAD+, how it benefits you, and how NAD+ supplements might play a role in supporting overall health, especially as you age.

Key Takeaways

• NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every cell. It’s essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular health.

• NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, potentially contributing to various age-related issues.

• Direct NAD+ supplementation is ineffective due to poor absorption. There are several NAD+ precursor supplements available. These supplements are efficient in boosting cellular NAD+ levels.

• While NAD+ precursors are found in some foods, one would need to consume massive quantities to replenish their NAD+ levels. For example, to obtain 300mg of NR, it would require you to drink 88 gallons of milk, whereas an NAD supplement can provide the same with one capsule.

What Is NAD+?

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme found in every living cell of our bodies, providing cellular nutrition. This molecule plays a crucial role in numerous biological processes that maintain cellular health. As a coenzyme, NAD+ acts as a helper molecule for enzymes, facilitating various biochemical reactions essential for life. For instance, it supports cellular metabolism, helping to convert nutrients into energy (ATP).

NAD+ is also involved in activating enzymes that help repair damaged DNA. It also influences the activity of certain proteins that regulate gene expression. NAD+ participates in cell signaling pathways, helping cells communicate and respond to their environment.

Interestingly, NAD+ levels fluctuate throughout the day, influencing our body’s internal clock and various physiological processes.

What Is the Difference Between NAD, NAD+ and NADH?

The terms NAD, NAD+, and NADH are often used interchangeably in discussions about NAD+ supplements and cellular energy, but they’re not quite the same. NAD is a collective term encompassing both NAD+ and NADH, which are two forms of the same molecule.

Think of a molecule of NAD as a delivery truck. It picks up a payload that ignites the energy-making process in your cells. When the truck is empty, its molecular structure is NAD+. When the truck is loaded, it’s called NADH. NAD makes multiple rounds of delivery, constantly changing its structure from NAD+ to NADH.

The conversion between NAD+ and NADH is a continuous cycle within our cells. This is vital for maintaining cellular energy production and overall metabolic health. When people talk about NAD+ supplements, they’re typically referring to precursors that help the body produce more of this essential molecule.

What Is an NAD+ Supplement?

NAD+ supplements are products designed to increase the levels of NAD+ in the body. These supplements don’t contain NAD directly. Instead, NAD+ supplements contain precursor compounds that the body can use to produce more NAD+. The precursors found in many NAD+ supplements include amino acids or common vitamins found in food, such as vitamin B3 (niacin) or tryptophan.

The goal of these supplements is to boost NAD+ levels, which naturally decline with age. Increasing NAD+ availability through supplements can support various cellular processes that rely on this crucial coenzyme, potentially promoting better energy metabolism, DNA repair, and overall cellular health.

What Are Some NAD-Boosting Supplements?

There are several supplements available that can help increase NAD+ levels naturally in the body. These supplements work by providing precursors or supporting molecules that the body can use to produce more NAD+.

1. Niacin (NA)

Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that can effectively increase NAD+ levels in the body. It was first discovered in the 1930s as a treatment for pellagra, a severe vitamin B3 deficiency disease. Niacin functions as an NAD+ precursor, meaning it serves as a building block that the body can convert into NAD+ through a series of metabolic reactions.

The conversion for niacin to NAD+ occurs through a three-step process known as the Preiss-Handler pathway. This pathway allows cells to use niacin and transform it into the essential NAD+ coenzyme. While niacin can boost NAD+ levels, it’s not considered the ideal NAD+ supplement for several reasons.

One significant drawback of niacin supplementation is the common side effect known as "niacin flush." In high doses, niacin can cause a temporary but often uncomfortable reddening and warming of the skin. This flushing effect, while generally harmless, can be irritating and cosmetically undesirable for many users.

2. Nicotinamide (NAM)

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide or NAM, is another form of vitamin B3 that serves as a precursor to NAD+. It's a compound closely related to niacin but with some distinct characteristics that set it apart as an NAD+ supplement.

As an NAD+ precursor, nicotinamide can be converted by the body into NAD+ through a series of biochemical reactions. This conversion process is different from that of niacin and is generally considered more efficient. One significant advantage of nicotinamide over niacin is that it doesn't cause the uncomfortable "flushing" effect often associated with niacin supplementation, making it a more tolerable option for many users.

However, nicotinamide has its own drawbacks as an NAD+ booster. Research has shown that it can inhibit a class of enzymes called sirtuins. Sirtuins play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including DNA repair, stress resistance, and regulating metabolism.

These enzymes are often associated with longevity and healthy aging. The inhibition of sirtuins by nicotinamide could potentially counteract some of the desired benefits of increasing NAD+ levels.

3. Nicotinamide riboside (NR)

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is the third and most recently discovered form of vitamin B3, also an NAD+ precursor.

A clinical trial published in Scientific Reports, where NR was administered to healthy adults, reveals NR both safely and effectively increases NAD+ levels.

Unlike nicotinamide, NR does not inhibit sirtuins, making it the superior NAD+ boosting molecule, as it helps power the cells and organs in your body to keep you energized.

In fact, a study published in Nature Communications reveals that NR significantly increases levels of both NAD+ and adenine diphosphate ribose (ADPR)—a byproduct of healthy sirtuin activity—demonstrating that it stimulates more NAD+ consuming activities.

Also, unlike niacin, NR does not cause flushing. Even high doses of NR have been administered to humans without any attributable reports of flushing, showcasing another reason why NR proves to be the top NAD+ boosting molecule.

NR is converted to NAD+ by traveling along the shortest and most direct pathway inside your cells compared to niacin or nicotinamide, saving your cells time and energy.

Niagen®, our patented form of nicotinamide riboside (or NR), is the key active ingredient in Tru Niagen, which is known to be one of the most well-researched, science-backed NAD+ boosters available.

4. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NAM)

Nicotinamide mononucleotide, or NMN, is another NAD+ precursor that is relatively new to the scene. NMN is not a form of vitamin B3 but rather a molecule derived from riboside and nicotinamide.

NMN has been used in many preclinical studies; a study published in Biomolecules shows the therapeutic applications of NMN.

However, NMN has only been tested in two clinical studies, one of which did not report any effects of NMN on NAD+ levels.

Also, a study on NMN’s metabolism in mammalian cells suggests NMN is too big to enter your cells. The research shows that your body must first convert supplemental NMN into nicotinamide riboside before it can enter your cells. In short, it’s a cumbersome and inefficient process.

5. Tryptophan

Tryptophan is an amino acid used by the body to synthesize proteins and can only be obtained through diet. It is found in foods like turkey, chicken, meat, cheese, yogurt, and eggs.

A study published in the Annual Review of Nutrition evaluated all the NAD+ precursor vitamins, revealing tryptophan as the least efficient. The study shows that tryptophan takes a six-step pathway through the cell to convert into NAD.

Along the six-step pathway (technically called de novo biosynthesis), tryptophan converts into several other chemical compounds that can get sidetracked down other pathways, making the tryptophan pathway the longest and most inefficient pathway for synthesizing NAD.

In the end, the payout is quite minimal. A review of niacin, provided by Oregon State University, shows that the tryptophan pathway requires at least 60 milligrams of tryptophan to produce the same amount of NAD+ generated by 1 milligram of niacin.

What Are the Benefits of NAD+ Supplements?

While research is ongoing, early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that NAD+ supplementation could positively impact various aspects of health. Let’s explore some of the key NAD+ benefits you should be aware of:

1.Healthy aging properties

NAD+ has become a key player in understanding healthy aging properties, with growing evidence suggesting that maintaining adequate NAD+ levels may help combat some aspects of the aging process. As we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decrease, and an NAD+ supplement can provide us with precursors like NR that are needed to support our bodies as we grow older.

Hassina Massudi and a team of researchers from the University of New South Wales uncovered age-associated changes in relation to low NAD+ levels. Their research shows us that NAD+ levels decline as much as 50% between the ages of 40-60 and that low levels of NAD+ are linked to many age-related health issues.

But there’s good news.

A paper published in the Translational Medicine of Aging shows the positive therapeutic potential of boosting NAD+ as we age.

The paper states, “NAD+ replenishment may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for aging and multiple conditions to improve the quality of life of the increasing aged population.”

This research indicates that maintaining or restoring NAD+ levels through supplementation could potentially slow down certain aspects of the aging process.

Luckily, there are several supplements on the market to help you replenish your NAD+ levels.

2. Improved muscle function and recovery

NAD+ and muscle function and recovery are closely linked.

One of the primary ways NAD+ supports muscle function is through its role in energy metabolism. Muscles need energy to contract and perform work. NAD+ helps convert nutrients into ATP, the cellular energy currency. By ensuring adequate energy production, NAD+ helps maintain muscle strength and endurance.

NAD+ is involved in activating sirtuins, proteins that regulate cellular processes, including muscle growth and repair. Sirtuins help protect muscle cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are common during intense exercise or as a result of aging. By supporting sirtuin activity, NAD+ may help preserve muscle mass and function over time.

Research has also shown that NAD+ levels in muscle tissue decline with age, which may contribute to the loss of muscle and strength commonly observed in older adults. A study found that boosting NAD+ levels in aged mice improved their muscle function and enhanced their exercise capacity.

In terms of recovery, NAD+ supports the repair of DNA damage in muscle cells, which can occur due to intense exercise or environmental stressors. This repair process is crucial for maintaining healthy muscle tissue and preventing long-term damage.

3. Increased cellular energy levels

NAD+ is essential for a series of chemical reactions that transforms nutrients into ATP. NAD+ supports the efficient function of mitochondria, the powerhouses within cells responsible for energy production.

This enhancement of mitochondrial efficiency is particularly significant when considering NAD+ and heart health. By enhancing mitochondrial efficiency, NAD+ helps optimize the body's energy output.

The heart, being a constantly active organ, requires tons of energy to function properly. Heart cells contain thousands of mitochondria to meet this high energy demand. However, as we age, both the number and efficiency of mitochondria in cardiac cells decline.

By boosting NAD+ levels, we may be able to support mitochondrial function in heart cells, potentially helping to maintain cardiac energy production and overall heart health as we age.

NAD+ also supports muscle function, which can lead to improved exercise performance and, consequently, increased overall energy levels.

4. DNA repair

NAD+ helps the body repair DNA damage, a process that's essential for maintaining cellular health and preventing various diseases, including cancer. At the molecular level, NAD+ is a substrate for a class of enzymes called PARPs (mono/poly-ADP-ribosylation).

When DNA damage occurs, whether from environmental factors like UV radiation, toxins, or normal cellular processes, PARPs are among the first responders.

However, this repair process consumes significant amounts of NAD+. In situations of extensive DNA damage, NAD+ depletion can occur rapidly, potentially compromising other NAD+-dependent processes. However, by ensuring a sufficient supply of NAD+, cells can sustain their DNA repair activities without sacrificing other vital functions.

5. Enhanced cognitive function and brain health

NAD+ plays a vital role in maintaining and enhancing cognitive function and overall brain health. As a crucial coenzyme in cellular energy production, NAD+ is particularly important for neurons, which have high energy demands. By supporting efficient energy metabolism in brain cells, NAD+ helps maintain optimal neuronal function, potentially improving various aspects of cognition.

One of the key ways NAD+ supports brain health is by protecting neurons from damage. The brain is vulnerable to oxidative stress, which can cause inflammation and lead to neurodegenerative diseases over time. NAD+ activates sirtuins, a class of proteins that help defend cells against these harmful processes.

There is also a link between NAD+ and brain aging. NAD+ supports efficient DNA repair, helping to maintain the integrity of neurons to better preserve memory and other cognitive functions as we age.

6. Improved weight management

NAD+ supplementation has shown promising potential in supporting weight management efforts. Recent research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels may contribute to improved weight control through several mechanisms.

A comprehensive meta-analysis of 22 treatment arms involving over 5,000 participants revealed some interesting findings. The study found that NAD+ precursors had a significant impact on reducing Body Mass Index (BMI). Specifically, the analysis showed a modest but statistically significant decrease in BMI compared to control groups.

One of the key findings was the effect of NAD+ precursors on adiponectin, a hormone involved in regulating glucose levels and the breaking down of fatty acids. The study found a significant increase in adiponectin levels in those taking NAD+ precursors. Higher adiponectin levels are linked to improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, which can support weight management efforts.

NAD+ Supplement FAQs

Why is supplementing your body with NAD+ not a good idea?

The most obvious way to supplement your NAD+ is with more NAD. However, the biggest caveat of a NAD+ supplement is its potency.

Unfortunately, NAD+ as a standalone supplement is very difficult to maintain in capsule form. The molecule degrades quickly when exposed to light and heat, and deteriorates when exposed to water.

In fact, an FDA briefing document says NAD+ is unlikely to remain stable in capsule form under ordinary storage conditions.

Even if the pill is able to maintain its integrity, NAD+ itself as a supplement is largely ineffective in the body.

A paper in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology shows that the digestive process breaks down orally-administered NAD+ into common NAD+ precursors before the cells get a chance to absorb it.

Should you take an NAD+ capsule?

If NAD+ were to remain intact, its ability to permeate cellular walls remains problematic.

NAD+ is a large phosphorylated molecule that can only enter a cell through special doorways known as transporters.

Studies show that NAD+ must be broken down into smaller building blocks before being passed into the cell and converted back to NAD.

NAD+ capsules are literally too big to swallow.

A single molecule of NAD+ is more than twice the weight of one molecule of most NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside. That means a capsule of nicotinamide riboside contains more than twice as many molecules as a capsule of NAD of the same size.

Fortunately, your cells excel at using NAD+ precursors to make more NAD+ naturally. So, if you want to crank up the amount of NAD+ in your body, supplementing your diet with an NAD+ building block such as NR is a much more fruitful way to go.

Do NAD+ supplements really work?

NAD+ supplements have shown promising results in various human clinical trials, demonstrating potential benefits.

Studies have indicated improvements in measures like mitochondrial function, cognitive performance, and even aspects of cardiovascular health.

However, it's important to note that while these findings are encouraging, the field of NAD+ supplementation is still relatively new. More extensive and long-term clinical research is needed to fully understand the efficacy, dosing, and potential side effects of NAD+ boosters across different populations and health conditions.

Can you get NAD+ from food?

Yes, you can obtain NAD+ precursors from certain foods, but it's important to note that most dietary sources contain only trace amounts, which may not be sufficient to significantly boost NAD+ levels in the body.

Some foods do contain precursors like nicotinamide mononucleotide and nicotinamide riboside, which can be converted to NAD+ in the body. For instance, vegetables such as broccoli, cucumbers, and cabbage contain small amounts of NMN. NR can be found in trace amounts in milk and other dairy products. However, massive quantities of these foods would need to be consumed in order to replenish NAD+ levels. In fact, it would require you to drink 88 gallons of milk to obtain 300mg of NR, whereas an NAD+ supplement can do the same in one single capsule.

What is the recommended NAD+ dosage?

The recommended NAD+ dosage through supplements like Tru Niagen can vary based on individual factors, particularly age and lifestyle. A minimum daily dose of 300mg is considered safe and effective for those in relatively good health.

However, a higher dosage of 1,000mg daily is recommended for those seeking more significant benefits, especially as we age.

Wrapping Up: What Is the Best Supplement to Boost Your NAD?

When choosing an NAD+ supplement, it's crucial to consider factors such as cellular absorption, side effects, and overall cellular impact. NAD+ and NMN supplements are often too large for direct cellular absorption, requiring breakdown before use. While niacin can boost NAD+, it may cause uncomfortable side effects like skin flushing. Nicotinamide, though free from these side effects, can suppress important sirtuin activity in cells. Among the various options, nicotinamide riboside is the most efficient choice. It's small enough for direct cellular absorption, doesn't cause flushing, maintains sirtuin activity, and follows the most direct pathway to NAD+ production in cells.

Given these considerations, Tru Niagen, which contains nicotinamide riboside, is an excellent choice for NAD+ supplementation. It offers the benefits of efficient cellular absorption and NAD+ production without the drawbacks associated with other precursors. Tru Niagen is also backed by 300+ clinical studies and 30 human clinical trials, offering a safe, effective way to support your cellular health and potentially combat age-related NAD+ decline. Shop Tru Niagen today.