The effectiveness of NAD is being thoroughly investigated for its vital role in many potential health benefits, including:

NAD+ boosts energy production

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing a pivotal role in various biological processes, particularly energy metabolism. As a key component of cellular respiration, NAD+ facilitates the transfer of electrons during biochemical reactions, contributing to the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — the cell’s primary energy source. Additionally, UK scientists have found that NAD plus is intricately involved in DNA repair, gene expression, and cellular signalling, making it a fundamental element in maintaining overall cellular health (2).

NAD+ supports DNA mechanisms

NAD+ supports DNA repair mechanisms by serving as a crucial substrate for PARP enzymes, which identify and repair DNA damage. When DNA breaks occur, PARP enzymes use NAD+ to form poly(ADP-ribose) chains, signalling the repair machinery to the damage site. This process helps maintain genomic stability and prevent mutations, ensuring the integrity and proper function of the cells (3).

NAD+ can protect against oxidative stress

UK Clinical studies have found that NAD+ plays a critical role in protecting against oxidative stress by participating in redox reactions, where it alternates between its oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH) forms to neutralize free radicals. By supporting cellular antioxidant defense systems, elevated levels of NAD+ can help regenerate essential antioxidants, such as glutathione, which detoxify harmful reactive oxygen species. This process reduces oxidative damage to cells, thereby promoting cellular health and longevity (2).

NAD+ can slow down the ageing process

The presence of NAD could slow down the aging process by activating sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate cellular health and longevity. Additionally, research suggests that NAD+ supports DNA repair mechanisms, ensuring genomic stability and reducing the accumulation of age-related mutations. By maintaining optimal cellular function and mitigating oxidative stress, NAD plus promotes overall cellular health, contributing to a slower and healthier aging process (7).

NAD+ can improve cognitive function

NAD+ supplementation may improve cognitive performance by enhancing energy metabolism, ensuring that brain cells have sufficient ATP to function optimally. It also protects neurons from damage by reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular repair mechanisms.

Additionally, NAD+ plays a role in neurotransmitter synthesis, which is crucial for efficient communication between neurons, thereby enhancing cognitive functions such as mental clarity, memory, and focus (4).

Some UK clinical studies have found that NAD+ may protect against Alzheimer’s disease by reducing oxidative stress, thereby helping prevent neuronal damage and maintaining brain health. It supports neuronal health by promoting the repair of damaged cells and enhancing mitochondrial function, which is crucial for energy production in brain cells. Moreover, NAD+ supports DNA repair, helping prevent the accumulation of mutations that can contribute to neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s (8).

NAD+ enhances muscle function and endurance

NAD+ enhances muscle function and endurance by improving energy production, thereby ensuring muscles have an ample supply of ATP during physical activity. It supports mitochondrial function, enabling optimal energy metabolism efficiency and reducing the buildup of lactic acid that causes muscle fatigue. By maintaining optimal cellular energy levels, NAD+ helps muscles perform better and recover faster, thereby boosting overall endurance (9).