NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
Do you suffer from chronic fatigue, lack of energy and declining mental concentration?
Do you feel that age is getting to you?
Have you heard about NAD+ infusions?
Primary Function
NAD+ acts as an essential coenzyme in redox reactions, where it serves as an electron carrier:
-
Oxidized Form: NAD+ accepts electrons, becoming NADH.
-
Reduced Form: NADH donates electrons in various biochemical reactions.
​​
This cycle is crucial for energy metabolism, particularly in processes like:
-
Glycolysis
-
Krebs Cycle (Citric Acid Cycle)
-
Electron Transport Chain
Chemical Composition
-
NAD+ is a dinucleotide, meaning it consists of two nucleotides joined through their phosphate groups.
​
-
One nucleotide contains adenine, and the other contains nicotinamide.
Role in Cellular Processes
-
Energy Production: NAD+ is vital for ATP generation by facilitating electron transfer in the mitochondria.
-
DNA Repair: It is a substrate for enzymes like PARPs (Poly ADP-Ribose Polymerases), which repair damaged DNA.
-
Gene Expression Regulation: NAD+ is involved in epigenetic modifications by activating sirtuins, enzymes that influence aging, inflammation, and metabolism.
Decline with Age
NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, leading to reduced cellular energy and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.
Potential Benefits of NAD+ Supplementation
-
Anti-aging: Boosting NAD+ levels may slow the aging process by improving mitochondrial function and DNA repair.
-
Neuroprotection: NAD+ could support brain health by protecting neurons from oxidative stress.
-
Metabolic Health: It may improve insulin sensitivity and support metabolic function.
How to Boost NAD+ Levels
-
Diet: Foods like fish, mushrooms, green vegetables, and whole grains contain precursors to NAD+.
-
Supplements: Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are popular supplements that increase NAD+ levels.
-
Lifestyle: Regular exercise and fasting can stimulate NAD+ production.