Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, commonly known as NAD+, is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays an essential role in helping your body convert nutrients into energy while supporting many normal cellular processes.
Because NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, researchers continue to study how supporting NAD+ may contribute to healthy aging and overall wellness. Although scientific interest continues to grow, research is still evolving, and many potential applications remain under investigation.
What Is NAD+?
NAD+ is a coenzyme involved in hundreds of metabolic reactions throughout the body.
Its primary role is helping cells produce energy by assisting mitochondria—the structures often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell.
NAD+ also participates in processes involved in:
- Cellular energy production
- Normal metabolic function
- Cellular communication
- Healthy aging research
- Enzyme activity
Without adequate NAD+, cells cannot efficiently perform many of the functions necessary for normal health.
Do NAD+ Levels Decline With Age?
Research suggests that NAD+ levels naturally decrease as we grow older.
Scientists believe this decline may contribute to age-related changes in cellular function, leading researchers to investigate whether supporting NAD+ levels may promote healthy aging.
While these findings are promising, additional human research is needed to better understand the long-term clinical effects of NAD+ therapies.
Potential Wellness Applications
NAD+ continues to be studied for a variety of potential wellness applications.
Areas of ongoing research include:
Cellular Energy
Because NAD+ is involved in energy metabolism, researchers are investigating its role in supporting normal cellular energy production.
Healthy Aging
Scientists continue to study how maintaining healthy NAD+ levels may support normal cellular function during aging.
Cognitive Wellness
NAD+ has become an area of interest in neuroscience because of its role in cellular metabolism. Research is ongoing to better understand how NAD+ may influence brain health and cognitive function.
Physical Wellness
Researchers are also exploring the relationship between NAD+ and physical performance, recovery and overall vitality, although more studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
Who May Consider NAD+ Therapy?
Some individuals discuss NAD+ therapy with their healthcare provider as part of a personalized wellness plan.
A provider may consider factors such as:
- Overall health
- Wellness goals
- Medical history
- Current medications
- Lifestyle habits
Because every individual is different, treatment recommendations should always be personalized.
Is NAD+ Right for You?
NAD+ therapy is not appropriate for everyone.
If you're interested in learning whether NAD+ therapy may fit into your wellness plan, a licensed healthcare provider can evaluate your health history, discuss your goals and determine whether treatment may be appropriate.
Learn More About NAD+
NAD+ continues to be an exciting area of scientific research because of its central role in cellular metabolism and energy production.
TeleWellnessMD® connects patients with licensed healthcare providers who can discuss NAD+ therapy, answer your questions and determine whether it may be appropriate for your individual wellness goals.
Schedule a Consultation to learn more.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. TeleWellnessMD® is a technology platform that connects patients with licensed healthcare providers. TeleWellnessMD® does not practice medicine, provide medical advice, or dispense medications. All therapies require evaluation and approval by a licensed healthcare provider. Results may vary. Prescription required.
Sources
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). Office of Dietary Supplements.
- National Library of Medicine. NAD+ Metabolism and Healthy Aging.
- National Library of Medicine. Roles of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) in Cellular Metabolism.
- Cell Metabolism. NAD+ Biology and Therapeutic Potential.
- Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology. NAD+ Metabolism in Health and Disease.