Does Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) supplementation aid in weight loss?

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Last updated: March 11, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

NAD+ supplementation is not recommended for weight loss as there is no clear evidence of its effectiveness, and comprehensive weight loss maintenance programs that include lifestyle modifications are more effective. According to the most recent and highest quality study, 1, nutritional supplements, including NAD+, have not been shown to be effective for weight loss and are not recommended. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive weight loss maintenance programs that provide ongoing support, monthly contact, and self-monitoring strategies, as well as regular physical activity, for effective weight management.

Some key points to consider when it comes to weight loss and management include:

  • Comprehensive weight loss maintenance programs that provide at least monthly contact with trained interventionists and focus on ongoing monitoring of body weight and other self-monitoring strategies are effective for weight management 1
  • Short-term intensive nutrition intervention, such as structured very-low-calorie meals, may be prescribed for carefully selected individuals, but should be provided by trained practitioners in medical settings with ongoing monitoring 1
  • Nutrition supplements, including NAD+, have not been shown to be effective for obesity management or weight loss, and may be associated with risks and biases 1
  • Lifestyle modifications, including calorie management and regular physical activity, are essential for effective weight management and should be prioritized over supplementation 1

In terms of NAD+ supplementation, while some research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels through precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMM) might help improve metabolic function, the evidence is still emerging, and results vary between individuals. Therefore, NAD+ supplementation should not be relied upon as a primary means of weight loss, and lifestyle modifications should be prioritized. If considering NAD+ supplementation for metabolic health, it's best used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes calorie management and regular physical activity.

From the Research

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) Supplementation and Weight Loss

  • There are no research papers provided that directly investigate the effect of Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) supplementation on weight loss.
  • The available studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 focus on various other aspects of weight loss, including the effectiveness of medications like orlistat and liraglutide, lifestyle changes, and surgical interventions.
  • None of the provided studies mention NAD+ supplementation as a method for weight loss, suggesting that there may be a lack of research on this specific topic.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

A review of evidence-based strategies to treat obesity in adults.

Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, 2011

Research

Weight loss interventions for adult obesity: evidence for practice.

Worldviews on evidence-based nursing, 2004

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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