From the Guidelines
NAD+ supplementation, specifically through precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), is recommended for anti-aging purposes, with typical doses ranging from 250-1000mg daily, as supported by recent studies on the role of NAD+ in cellular energy production and its potential to mitigate aspects of aging 1.
Mechanism of Action
NAD+ plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, acting as a cofactor for various enzymes involved in cellular respiration and DNA repair mechanisms. Its decline with age is associated with decreased cellular energy production, increased oxidative stress, and impaired DNA repair, all of which contribute to the aging process. Supplementing with NAD+ precursors can help maintain or boost NAD+ levels, potentially supporting cellular health and function.
Benefits and Side Effects
The benefits of NAD+ supplementation may include improved mitochondrial function, enhanced cellular repair, better metabolic health, and potentially slowed aspects of aging. Most people tolerate NAD+ precursors well, though some may experience mild side effects like flushing or gastrointestinal discomfort. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially to discuss appropriate dosing and potential interactions with other medications.
Dosage and Administration
For optimal effects, NAD+ precursors should be taken consistently over time, preferably in the morning with food. The dosage can vary, but typical ranges are between 250-1000mg daily. It's crucial to follow a healthcare provider's guidance on dosing and to monitor for any side effects.
Evidence Base
The recommendation for NAD+ supplementation is based on the understanding of NAD+'s role in cellular metabolism and the observed decline in NAD+ levels with age, as discussed in studies like the one published in Nutrition Research Reviews 1. While the field is evolving, the current evidence supports the potential benefits of maintaining healthy NAD+ levels for anti-aging purposes.
From the Research
NAD+ and Anti-Aging
- NAD+ is a fundamental molecule in human life and health, participating in energy metabolism, cell signalling, mitochondrial homeostasis, and dictating cell survival or death 2.
- Emerging evidence from preclinical and human studies indicates an age-dependent reduction of cellular NAD+, possibly due to reduced synthesis and increased consumption 2.
- NAD+ repletion has been shown to extend healthspan and/or lifespan and mitigate several conditions, such as premature ageing diseases and neurodegenerative diseases 2.
NAD+ Precursors and Anti-Aging
- NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR), nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), and dihydronicotinamide riboside (NRH), have been found to have therapeutic potential for ageing, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases 2.
- Supplementation with NAD+ precursors has been identified as a promising treatment strategy for age-related cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia 3.
- NAD+ precursors have been shown to improve sirtuin activation, autophagy, and mitochondrial functionality, leading to protective effects against extrinsic and intrinsic aging 4.
Skin Anti-Aging and NAD+
- A novel approach to skin anti-aging has been established, utilizing NAD+ and inhibiting CD38 expression to enhance pharmacological efficacy 4.
- Exogenous NAD+ has been found to exert protective effects against both extrinsic and intrinsic aging, and its effects can be significantly boosted by quercetin and enoxolone 4.
Benefits and Risks of NAD+ Therapy
- Raising intracellular NAD+ levels has been shown to have a favourable outcome on several age-related disorders, including those associated with chronic oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired mitochondrial function 5.
- However, potential risks of NAD+ therapy include the accumulation of putative toxic metabolites, tumorigenesis, and promotion of cellular senescence 5.
- Further studies are needed to recapitulate the preclinical benefits of NAD+ therapy in human clinical trials and to provide definitive answers regarding its impact on human cognitive health 3.