What is NAD?
NAD is a molecule, specifically a coenzyme, that occurs naturally in the human body. The abbreviation stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, also commonly known as NAD+. (The “+” refers to the oxidized form of NAD. Coenzymes like NAD bind to our enzymes to help initiate and accelerate actions that are essential to our body's healthy function.
NAD is a key component of bodily processes, such as:
- Redox reactions. The oxidation-reduction (or redox) reaction assists in our energy
metabolism. - Enzyme activities. The actions of enzymes regulate metabolism and circadian rhythm (The
body’s natural sleep-wake cycle). - Cellular functions. That includes DNA repair, cellular senescence (which prevents cells
from multiplying at an out-of-control rate), and immune cell function.
5 key benefits of NAD
NAD has been in the news for decades because of its potential to boost human longevity. Here are the five main benefits of NAD that scientists have found some evidence of thus far.
1. Slows down aging
There is no "miracle drug" that can stop the aging process. But NAD supplements may alter the cellular processes that lead to physical and cognitive decline. Scientists have observed that a reduction in NAD+ levels in the body is linked to age-related disorders.
2. Increases energy
NAD appears to help deliver energy to the cells to improve their function. This, in turn, may help the body improve and sustain athletic performance by boosting energy levels, metabolism, and circulation. NAD is also believed to help protect muscles from degradation over time and allow the cellular processes that assist in muscle recovery after workouts.
3. Improves cognitive function
Reduced levels of NAD appear to be linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This could be partly due to its role in protecting neurons (nerve cells). While most of this research has occurred in mice and rats thus far, researchers believe that NAD+ supplementation may play a similar role in decreasing the nerve-related inflammation associated with cognitive impairment in humans as well.
4. Reduces cholesterol
Both NAD+ and the NAD precursor, niacin, have been shown to have a beneficial effect on cholesterol. Specifically, niacin has been shown to lower triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol (aka "good cholesterol"). Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for lowering your risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.
5. Reduces cancer risk
NAD plays a critical role in cellular health and the benefits of NAD+ may include the prevention, treatment, and arrest of certain types of cancer.
NAD IV therapy:
NAD intravenous or IV therapy, also called NAD drips, delivers the active ingredient to your bloodstream. NAD precursors can also be delivered via an IV drip. Because intravenous therapy helps active ingredients bypass the digestive system, they avoid possible degradation by stomach acid.
