15 Nov NAD+ and Aging: Can This Molecule Really Turn Back the Clock?

Editor’s note: NADH is not the same as  niacin, niacinamide, or nicotinamide riboside. 
Please discuss the use of NAD⁺ with your health care provider before use and if you are taking long term.  NAD⁺ supplements are not FDA tested and may vary between formulations.  There are no studies of NAD⁺ in children, pregnancy, breast feeding or those planning to become pregnant. The efficacy and long term safety of NAD⁺ has not been definitively determined.

NAD⁺ (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) has become popular among celebrities. Other health-conscious individuals also use it aiming to boost their energy and improve vitality.

This molecule, which is present in all cells in the human body, participates in metabolic processes. It might also slow down the aging process. Here, we provide science-backed information on whether NAD⁺ supplements are effective. We also discuss if they are capable of reversing the biological clock.

Can NAD+ supplements reverse aging?

 

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is an organic compound found in all human cells. It plays a crucial role in energy production within cellular mitochondria (often referred to as the “powerhouse of the cell”). It is involved in metabolic processes essential for ATP production. NAD+ helps protect against oxidative stress and prevents cellular degradation.

NAD+ levels naturally decrease with age. Some studies suggest that NAD+ supplementation may help reduce some negative effects of aging.  It might also potentially extend lifespan. Yet, it is essential to view NAD+ supplementation not as a “cure” for aging but rather as a complementary part of a healthy lifestyle.

Here, we present research-backed potential benefits of boosting NAD+ levels:

DNA repair support

 

Certain NAD+ boosters are proposed to support DNA repair, which might reflect in neuroprotective functions.

The study published in PNAS has assessed the effects of NAD+ supplementation in mice models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The results have shown that NAD+ precursor reduced DNA damage and neuroinflammation as well as improved learning memory and motor function.

Most of the current studies have assessed the efficacy of DNA repair in animal models, and clinical data is required to support the claims of DNA repair support in humans.

Potential anti-aging skin benefits

 

The ability of NAD+ to protect cells from oxidative stress has made it an intriguing supplement to study for potential anti-aging skin benefits.

A study published in the International Journal of Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology assessed the effects of NAD+ in a mouse model. The results showed that applying NAD+ to damaged skin was able to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and cell death.

The data is promising. However, this study tested NAD+ on the damaged skin of animals. The results may not be the same for humans.

There are no clinical studies that have assessed the effect of NAD+ supplementation on skin benefits.

Support for cardiovascular health

Some studies claim that NAD+ or its precursors may help heart health. They might do this by improving endothelial cell function, reducing inflammation, or bettering cholesterol.

Most of the available data assessed the effect of NAD+ precursors and not NAD+ itself. A 6-week randomized study in Nature Communications found that supplementing middle-aged and older adults with nicotinamide riboside elevated NAD+ levels. It reduced systolic blood pressure and arterial stiffness. This might lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

However, an analysis of multiple studies in Gene & Diseases found that many human and animal studies reported no significant changes.
More clinical data is needed to support the claims regarding the cardiovascular benefits of NAD+.

Potential side effects of NAD+ boosters

 

NAD+ supplements are generally safe. Clinical studies found no severe side effects from them. However, these side effects have not been reported if NAD+ supplements are taken at the recommended doses. Discuss use and dosage with your health care provider.

When adding new supplements to your routine, watch for changes in your body. If any side effects persist, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.

Exceeding daily recommendations might lead to certain discomforts, as with other supplements. These include digestive issues such as nausea or bloating.

Should you consider NAD+ boosters for anti-aging?

 

Some studies suggest that NAD+ supplements may help with:

• Better brain function
• Lower heart risks
• Antioxidant support
• More energy in cells

However, the current clinical data on NAD+ supplements is limited. It involves a small number of participants. Larger studies are needed to support these claims.

Also, the effectiveness of NAD+ supplements may vary by individual. It depends on their health, medications, and lifestyle. Always consult a healthcare professional. They can decide if an NAD+ booster would benefit you.

Complementary lifestyle practices for healthy aging

 

NAD+ might help with aging. But, we should take a broader view. We need to add other health and wellness practices to support healthy aging. These might include:

Balanced nutrition. It is important to incorporate a healthy diet based on whole and unprocessed foods. Aim to include food rich in fiber, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and lean protein.

Regular physical activity. Combining exercises, like cardio, weights, and stretching, would benefit your musculoskeletal system. It would also improve blood and oxygen flow.

Restorative sleep. Getting enough hours of sleep is important to maintain healthy cognitive functions, helping your brain to age in a healthy way.

Stress management. Mindfulness practices, like yoga or meditation, might help. They can reduce stress, which often causes oxidative stress.

Social engagement. Healthy relations with friends and family may boost well-being and a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

 

NAD+ supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many people and celebrities are taking this booster to fight aging.

NAD+ molecule has proven function in the human body, providing the energy used by the brain, muscles, and other tissues for all activities.  However, there is still limited clinical data that would support the claim about the beneficial effect of NAD+ supplements.

Most of the studies claiming positive effects were either performed on animals or a small number of participants. To care for your biological clock, try some lifestyle changes. Eat a balanced diet, exercise, and get regular sleep. A healthcare professional might help you with selecting the supplements that are right for you and would support your health.

FAQs

• How long does it take to see effects from NAD+ supplements?

No clinical studies have investigated how long it takes to see the effects of NAD+ supplementation. The time to see the impact would likely depend on the person’s health, other medications, and lifestyle.

• Can NAD+ supplements improve skin health?

NAD may help prevent DNA damage and has some antioxidant effects. But, there’s little clinical data to support claims that NAD+ supplements improve skin health. To improve skin health, you might consult a dermatologist.

• Are NAD+ boosters safe for long-term use?

Most studies on NAD+ boosters assess their effectiveness after a few months of treatment. There is no data regarding the safety and efficacy profile of NAD+ boosters. It is recommended to consult a health care professional to ensure that taking NAD+ supplements long-term is suitable for you.

• Do foods contain NAD+ or help boost NAD+ levels?

NAD+ is not typically found in foods. Some foods contain precursors, like vitamin B3 and tryptophan. They may help increase NAS+ levels. Examples include nicotinamide riboside and polyphenols. If you want to increase ND+ levels naturally, you might consider consuming poultry (e.g., chicken, turkey), fatty fish (e.g., salmon), nuts, seeds, or leafy greens.

 

Again,  NADH is not the same as  niacin, niacinamide, or nicotinamide riboside. 
Please discuss the use of NAD⁺ with your health care provider before use and if you are taking long term.  NAD⁺ supplements are not FDA tested and may vary between formulations.  There are no studies of NAD⁺ in children, pregnancy, breast feeding or those planning to become pregnant. The efficacy and long term safety of NAD⁺ has not been definitively determined.

 

More information:

1. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1016/nadh
2. https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/nadh.htm

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Last Updated on November 15, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD