From the Research
There is no established daily recommended intake for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) itself, as it is not typically consumed directly as a supplement, but rather through its precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Instead, people typically take these precursors to boost NAD levels in the body. For these precursors, common supplementation doses range from 250-1000 mg daily for NR and 250-1200 mg daily for NMN, though these are not official recommendations 1, 2. NAD is a critical coenzyme found in all cells that plays essential roles in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. As we age, NAD levels naturally decline, which has been linked to various aspects of aging and age-related diseases.
While supplementation with NAD precursors shows promise in animal studies for potentially improving metabolic health and longevity, human research is still emerging 3, 4. If considering supplementation, it's advisable to start at the lower end of dosing ranges and consult with a healthcare provider, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications. A recent study found that reduced nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMNH) is a new and potent NAD+ precursor in mammalian cells and mice, which may have therapeutic potential for acute kidney injury 5. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and potential benefits of NMNH supplementation.
Some key points to consider when thinking about NAD supplementation include:
- The safety and efficacy of NAD precursors have been evaluated in several studies, with generally positive results 1, 3
- The optimal dosage and duration of supplementation are still unknown, and may vary depending on individual factors such as age and health status
- NAD precursors may have different effects on different tissues and organs, and may interact with other medications or supplements 2, 4
- More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of NAD supplementation, particularly in humans 5