From the Guidelines
The current evidence suggests that NAD+ supplements may have potential benefits for general health and anti-aging, but their effectiveness has not been firmly established in large human clinical trials. The available data indicate that NAD+ levels decline with age, and animal studies have shown promising results for NAD+ supplements in improving metabolic health and potentially extending lifespan 1. However, human studies have yielded mixed results, with some modest improvements in markers of cellular health and metabolism but no definitive proof of anti-aging effects.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the efficacy of NAD+ supplements include:
- NAD+ plays crucial roles in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling
- Animal studies have demonstrated that supplementation with NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide, can improve metabolic health and potentially extend lifespan 1
- Human studies have shown mixed results, with some modest improvements in markers of cellular health and metabolism but no definitive proof of anti-aging effects
- Typical dosages range from 250-1000mg daily for nicotinamide riboside and 250-500mg daily for NMN, though optimal dosing remains unclear
It is essential to note that the administration of 'supraphysiological' doses of vitamin B3 (≥500 mg/kg) has been demonstrated to prevent specific events and the subsequent loss of cellular NAD+ levels 1. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of NAD+ supplements on human health and to establish optimal dosing regimens. If considering these supplements, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider first, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications.
From the Research
Efficacy of NAD Supplements
The current efficacy of NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) supplements for general health and anti-aging purposes is a topic of ongoing research.
- Studies have shown that NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), can increase NAD+ levels in humans 2, 3.
- These increased NAD+ levels have been associated with improved physiological function, including reduced blood pressure and arterial stiffness 2, and enhanced skeletal muscle activity 4.
- Additionally, NAD+ supplementation has been shown to have potential benefits for age-related disorders, such as neurological degeneration and metabolic disorders 5, 6.
Key Findings
- A 2018 study found that chronic supplementation with NR was well-tolerated and effectively stimulated NAD+ metabolism in healthy middle-aged and older adults 2.
- A 2020 review of 1545 articles found that most studies indicated that NAD+ precursors had a favorable outcome on several age-related disorders, including those associated with chronic oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired mitochondrial function 6.
- A 2024 study found that NMN supplementation increased blood NAD concentration in a dose-dependent manner, with significant improvements in walking distance and quality of life scores 3.
Future Research Directions
- Further clinical trials are needed to determine the optimal method of raising NAD levels, identifying target conditions, and comparing NAD supplementation to standard of care 4.
- Research is also needed to understand the potential risks and benefits of long-term NAD+ supplementation, including the accumulation of toxic metabolites and promotion of cellular senescence 6.
- Personalized dosage regimens and monitoring of NAD concentration may be necessary to optimize NMN utilization and minimize interindividual variability 3.