Introduction
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme in all living cells. It is vital in energy metabolism and various bodily processes that make life possible. NAD+ levels naturally decline as we age, leading to various health problems. This article explores NAD+’s potential benefits, uses, and typical dosages in research with NAD+.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a type of coenzyme that takes part in many biological reactions. It’s essential for optimal health, and research shows that NAD+ levels continue to fall with age. Low NAD+ levels are linked to poor ageing and various harmful diseases.
Benefits of NAD+
- Easily Converted Into NAD+: Animal studies show that nicotinamide riboside raises blood NAD+ levels by up to 2.7 times.
- Promotes Healthy Aging: NAD+ activates enzymes that may promote healthy ageing, including sirtuins, which improve animal lifespan and overall health.
- Protects Brain Cells: NAD+ plays a crucial role in helping brain cells age well, protecting against oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial function.
- Lowers Heart Disease Risk: In humans, nicotinamide riboside raised NAD+ levels, helped reduce stiffness in the aorta, and decreased systolic blood pressure in adults at risk of high blood pressure.
- Safety of Oral Administration: Recent studies have evaluated the safety of oral intake of NR chloride in healthy overweight adults, showing no serious adverse events.
- Therapeutic Potential: NMN, another NAD+ precursor, has various therapeutic potentials, including protecting the heart and enhancing cognitive function.
Types and Dosage Recommendations
NAD+ is synthesized from five different precursors obtained through diet. Some of the most important precursors for increasing NAD levels are various forms of vitamin B3. NR (Nicotinamide riboside) is considered the most efficient precursor to NAD+.
The typical dosages for NAD+ are believed to be 150-300mcg daily, although more human research is needed to confirm the exact dosage and effectiveness. Recent studies have also explored high-dose NR (2000 mg) for 12 weeks, showing safety and potential metabolic benefits.
Conclusion
NAD+ is a vital coenzyme linked to numerous health benefits, including promoting healthy ageing, protecting brain cells, and lowering heart disease risk. Understanding the importance of NAD+ and incorporating it into our daily routine can potentially unlock a new-age revolution in health and wellness. With ongoing research and commercialization, NAD+ remains a promising area in health and medicine.
Sources:
- Healthline: Nicotinamide Riboside: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage
- Dr Axe: NAD Supplement Benefits, Uses and Dosage Recommendations
- Nature: Safety and effects of NMN in humans
