Are NAD Supplements Safe? 9 NAD+ Benefits You May Not Know

Aging is a natural process in everyone's body. It can lead to a deficiency in NAD+, a crucial coenzyme involved in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and liver function regulation. To compensate for decreased NAD+ levels, many individuals turn to NAD+ supplements. But are these supplements genuinely safe and effective? This article provides detailed information about NAD+, its health benefits, and important considerations when using these supplements.

What Is NAD+ Supplement?

NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a natural compound found in cells and available in supplement form. It is essential for over 500 enzymatic reactions. It participates in many evolutionary-conserved signaling pathways, including DNA repair, apoptosis, gene signaling, hormonal signaling, Aging, proliferation, inflammation, and lipid and glucose balance [1].

NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, so supplementation may help alleviate symptoms related to metabolic disorders, cognitive decline, and age-related muscle degeneration [2]. Further research and clinical studies are needed to support this claim.

What Affects NAD+ Supplements

Several factors can influence the effects of NAD+ supplements:

• Formulation: NAD+ supplements may contain precursors such as Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN). Both can increase NAD+ levels but differ in absorption rates and effects.
• Dosage: The effectiveness of NAD+ supplements depends on the dosage and may vary based on age, health status, and specific health conditions. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
• Age: Natural NAD+ levels decrease with age, which may affect the effectiveness of supplements. Older individuals might require higher doses.
• Other Supplements: NAD+ supplements may work better with other nutrients such as B vitamins or antioxidants.

Benefits Of NAD Supplements

Slows Certain Effects Of Aging

Research and small human trials suggest that NAD supplementation is a promising strategy for age-related degenerative matters[3].

It may slow the aging process in various organs and cells, including cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal Aging, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Although anti-aging research is still limited, the existing studies highlight the significant potential of this compound.

Enhances Cognitive Function And Mental Health

There is currently limited scientific evidence showing the benefits of NAD for enhancing cognitive function and mental health.

However, some information suggests that NAD might boost serotonin levels, which "soothes" damaged brain cells. NAD supplementation could potentially reduce serotonin deficiency, thereby improving stress fighting capabilities.

Supports Skin Health And Reduces Premature Aging

Continuing with its anti-aging benefits, NAD supplementation may help enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms and promote the regeneration of skin cells. NAD's anti-aging effects might also repair DNA structure damaged by UV rays, reducing premature skin aging and other skin conditions such as psoriasis [6].

Boosts Metabolic And Cardiovascular Health

Good metabolic health can positively impact blood sugar regulation, cholesterol levels, and insulin concentration. Metabolism also affects conditions such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, which can lead to severe diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes [7].

A 2021 study involving prediabetic, overweight, or obese menopausal women showed that continuous supplementation with 250 mg of NAD daily for ten weeks resulted in positive outcomes in improving insulin sensitivity [8].

Other sources indicate that NAD benefits cardiovascular health by improving flow and reducing inflammation, which can help reduce heart attacks, heart failure, and related issues.

Antioxidant Properties And Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases

NAD's anti-aging properties can reduce inflammation in nerve cells, supporting the recovery from age-related cognitive disorders and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. NAD helps increase sirtuin protein production, which protects nerves from oxidative stress.

Additionally, research has shown that NAD supplementation enhances mitochondrial function and reduces dopaminergic neurodegeneration [4]. A study conducted in early 2023 showed that a regimen of 1500 mg of NAD precursor NR twice daily improved NAD levels and some common symptoms in Parkinson's patients [5].

Improves Sleep Quality

NAD may be a solution for improving sleep quality. It helps users fall asleep faster and provides higher-quality sleep, resulting in better relaxation and recovery.

Increase Energy Levels

NAD can boost the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides an electron for energy production.

A report summarizing multiple studies on the importance of NAD highlights its role in energy metabolism within eukaryotic cells, enhancing energy signaling [9].

Aids In Weight Management

NAD can promote metabolic processes that impact weight loss and weight maintenance. It helps increase levels of the hormone adiponectin, which regulates metabolism, burns calories, breaks down fat cells, and reduces their return.

A small 2016 study examining the relationship between weight loss and NAD levels indicated that NAD supplementation could enhance metabolic health and support weight loss in obese patients [10].

Supports Addiction Recovery

NAD may help individuals reduce cravings and improve mood during addiction recovery. It aids in detoxification, nerve protection, inflammation reduction, and cellular repair.

Studies show that NAD significantly reduces withdrawal symptoms. Research also suggests that increasing intracellular NAD levels could be a potential target for managing and reducing addictive behaviors, reducing cravings, and alleviating withdrawal symptoms in patients with food addiction or substance abuse [11].

Are NAD+ Supplements Safe?

NAD+ supplements are generally considered safe for use, but further research is needed to fully confirm their safety. Aging is a natural physiological process, not a disease, and animal studies have not fully validated the effectiveness of supplements for extending lifespan. Differences in metabolic models between animals and humans and environmental factors contribute to this uncertainty.

Some sources suggest repeated NAD+ supplementation might increase total cholesterol levels and cause elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Additionally, a 2017 study indicated that excessive expression of NAMPT, a key NAD+ enzyme, might increase cancer risk and neurogenic tumor development [12].

Side Effects Of NAD+ Supplements

NAD+ supplements are generally safe when used correctly, but side effects can occur. Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, elevated liver enzymes, itching, flushing, cramps, or decreased platelet count. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to ensure safety.

NAD+ Potential Drug Interactions

NAD+ is not known to have severe interactions with other medications, but caution is advised when combining it with the following:

• Antidepressants: These may lower NAD+ levels, particularly in individuals with poor nutrition [13].
• Insulin-related Medications: NAD+ supplements can affect insulin levels, requiring adjustments in insulin dosage [14].
• Other Supplements: Consider the potential interactions with other aging-related supplements like curcumin, quercetin, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

How To Take NAD+ Supplements

Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating NAD+ supplements into your regimen. Each product may have different nutritional content, serving sizes, and recommended dosages. Follow the product instructions carefully.

Studies have not established a fixed dosage for NAD+. For example, research on NMN for prediabetic women suggests that a daily dose of 250mg may be effective [15]. In comparison, a study on obese patients found 1000mg of NR daily effective [16].

What To Look For When Choosing NAD+ Supplements

When selecting NAD+ supplements, consider the following:

• Form of NAD+: Choose between direct NAD+, NMN, or NR, with NMN and NR often recommended over direct NAD+ supplementation.
• Purity and Quality: Opt for products from reputable companies with third-party testing or certification to ensure purity and efficacy.
• Dosage: Determine the appropriate dosage based on age, health condition, and scientific recommendations.
• Additional Ingredients: Review the ingredient list to avoid allergens or unwanted substances.

Can You Take Too Much NAD+ Supplement?

Like any supplement, excessive NAD+ intake can be harmful. Overuse can lead to gastrointestinal issues, abdominal pain, nausea, or potential epigenetic changes. Always adhere to the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional.

How Long Does It Take for NAD+ Supplements to Work?

The effectiveness of NAD+ supplements varies based on individual response, lifestyle, and adherence to the supplement regimen. Typically, results may be noticeable within 3-4 weeks. If there are no significant improvements after 24 months, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.

When to Take NAD+ Supplement?

The timing of NAD+ supplementation depends on the product's instructions and individual preferences. Although there is no scientific consensus on the best time to take NAD+, many users prefer morning doses for increased energy. Evening use is also acceptable and effective.

Conclusion

In summary, NAD+ is an essential supplement for human health, offering benefits such as improved cellular function, slowed Aging, enhanced cognitive performance, skin health support, and metabolic and cardiovascular benefits. When used correctly, NAD+ supplements can be safe and effective. However, following guidelines and monitoring your body's response is essential to avoid potential risks.