From the Guidelines
The recommended dosing for NAD supplement is not directly established, but based on the available information, a dose of 40 mg/day of niacin, which is converted into NAD in the body, can be considered as a reference point. When considering NAD supplementation, it's essential to understand that Niacin, a precursor to NAD, plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including energy production, DNA repair, and antioxidant effects 1. The body's requirement for NAD can be met through dietary sources, including fortified foods, meat, poultry, and fish, as well as through synthesis from the amino acid tryptophan in the liver, with 1 mg of nicotinamide equivalent to 1 niacin equivalent (NE) 1. Some key points to consider when thinking about NAD supplementation include:
- The various forms of NAD supplements, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which are considered more bioavailable precursors to NAD.
- The potential benefits of NAD supplementation, including improved energy production, enhanced DNA repair, and support for overall health and wellness.
- The importance of consulting a healthcare provider before starting NAD supplements, especially for individuals with medical conditions or those taking medications, due to potential interactions or effects on existing health conditions. Given the current state of knowledge, starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing as needed and under medical supervision is a prudent approach to NAD supplementation, considering the potential for side effects and the variability in individual responses to supplementation 1.
From the Research
NAD Supplement Dosing
The dosing for NAD supplement is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies discuss the potential health benefits of NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), and their effects on various metabolic pathways.
Key Findings
- The studies suggest that NR and NMN may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders 2, 3, 4, 5.
- NR and NMN have been found to increase NAD+ levels in the body, which may help to protect against age-related diseases 4, 5.
- The bioavailability and stability of NR and NMN are important considerations for their use as dietary supplements 5.
- The metabolic pathways of NMN and NR involve enterohepatic circulation and conversion to nicotinic acid (NA), which is then used in the liver to synthesize NAD+ 6.
Potential Dosing Considerations
- The optimal dosing for NAD supplements is not established, but the studies suggest that higher doses may be beneficial for certain health conditions 3.
- The stability and bioavailability of NR and NMN may impact their effectiveness as dietary supplements 5.
- Further research is needed to determine the optimal dosing and formulation for NAD supplements 2, 4, 5, 6.