What is NAD Plus: Everything You Need To Know?

NAD+ is a vital cell molecule that plays a crucial role in energy production, cellular repair, and overall health. It is a coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain. NAD+ helps convert nutrients into energy and supports DNA repair, which prevents ageing and diseases. 

As we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decrease, leading to a decline in cellular function and an increased risk of age-related diseases. Increasing NAD+ levels through supplementation or lifestyle interventions has been shown to improve metabolic health, enhance cognitive function, and promote longevity.

What Is NAD Plus?

NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is vital to every body cell. It is critical in energy production, cellular repair, and overall health. NAD+ acts as a coenzyme, helping in various metabolic processes. One of its main jobs is to help convert nutrients from food into energy that our cells can use. This process, called cellular respiration, is essential for powering our daily activities.

In addition to energy production, NAD+ also plays a crucial role in DNA repair. DNA, our genetic material, can get damaged over time. NAD+ helps repair this damage, preventing mutations that can lead to diseases and ageing. Our NAD+ levels naturally decline as we age. This decline can contribute to a variety of health problems, including decreased energy, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

Luckily, there are ways to boost NAD+ levels. Supplementation with NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), has shown promise in increasing NAD+ levels and improving health outcomes. Certain lifestyle factors, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can also help support NAD+ production.

Dosage Of NAD Plus

The recommended dosage of NAD+ varies depending on the specific form of supplementation (NAD+, NMN, NR) and individual factors such as age, health status, and underlying conditions.

While research is ongoing to establish optimal dosages, general guidelines suggest starting with lower doses and gradually increasing them as needed. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any NAD+ supplementation to determine the appropriate dosage and monitor for potential side effects.

Side Effects Of NAD Plus

While NAD+ supplementation is generally considered safe, some people may experience mild side effects. These side effects are typically temporary and may include headaches, nausea, fatigue, or digestive problems. It is important to note that these side effects are often mild and usually disappear as the body adjusts to the supplement. If you experience any significant or persistent side effects, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.

Ways To Boost NAD Plus

Dietary Changes

Eating foods rich in NAD+ precursors, such as niacin, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), boosts NAD+ levels. Good sources of niacin include chicken, turkey, fish, peanuts, and avocados. Fermented foods like kefir and kombucha are good sources of NR, while NMN is found in some mushrooms and green vegetables.

A balanced diet with many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide the essential nutrients for good NAD+ production. Limiting processed foods and sugary drinks is also necessary, as they can harm NAD+ production and overall health.

Lifestyle Modifications

Regular physical activity can help boost NAD+ levels and improve overall health. Exercise increases energy demand, which stimulates the body to produce more NAD+. Getting enough quality sleep is essential for optimal NAD+ production, as sleep deprivation can disrupt the body's natural rhythm and reduce NAD+ levels. 

Effective stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help maintain healthy NAD+ levels. Some studies suggest intermittent fasting may help increase NAD+ levels, but talking to a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen is essential.

Supplements

Supplements containing NAD+ precursors, such as NR or NMN, can conveniently boost NAD+ levels. NR is a precursor naturally found in some foods, such as kefir and kombucha.

NMN is a more direct precursor not as widely found in foods. NR and NMN have shown promising results in clinical studies for increasing NAD+ levels and improving various aspects of health. It is essential to choose high-quality supplements from reputable manufacturers. Look for supplements that are made with pure, natural ingredients and have been tested for purity and potency. 

Medical Interventions

Sometimes, NAD+ may be administered through intravenous infusions or intramuscular injections. These methods deliver a high concentration of NAD+ directly into the bloodstream or specific areas of the body, potentially providing rapid benefits. Intravenous infusions involve injecting NAD+ directly into the bloodstream through a vein.

This method allows for a high concentration of NAD+ to be delivered to the body quickly and efficiently. Intravenous NAD+ therapy is often used for conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low-level red light. This therapy has been shown to stimulate mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles in our cells. By improving mitochondrial function, red light therapy may indirectly increase NAD+ levels.

Red light therapy is often used for various conditions, including chronic pain, skin conditions, and wound healing. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office or at home.

Sauna Therapy

Sauna therapy involves exposing the body to high temperatures in a controlled environment. This therapy can activate cellular stress responses that may increase NAD+ production. Sauna therapy has been shown to have various health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and enhanced detoxification. However, it is essential to use saunas safely and to avoid overheating. It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting sauna therapy, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Cold Therapy

It's also known as cryotherapy, involves exposing the body to freezing temperatures. This type of therapy can trigger a hormetic stress response, which may stimulate NAD+ production. Cold therapy has been shown to have various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and enhanced recovery from exercise. However, using cold therapy safely and avoiding frostbite is essential. It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting cold therapy, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Conclusion 

Now you know what is NAD Plus. NAD+ is a vital molecule for our health. It helps produce energy, repairs cells, and prevents diseases. We can increase NAD+ levels through diet, lifestyle changes, supplements, and medical interventions. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before trying any new methods.