You may have heard of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) recently - it's been getting a lot of attention in the health and wellness world. NAD+ is a molecule that plays a vital role in many of our body's processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and immune function. Because of its importance, many people are interested in supplementing with NAD+ or NAD+ precursors in order to improve their health. Let's take a closer look at what NAD is and what it does.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ is a coenzyme that is found in all living cells. It plays a role in redox reactions, meaning that it helps to transfer electrons between molecules. This process is important for energy production, as well as for other cellular processes like DNA repair and immune function. NAD+ also plays a role in gene expression and is involved in signal transduction pathways.
NAD+ levels decline with age, which is thought to contribute to age-related decline in cellular function. This has led to interest in supplementing with NAD+ or NAD+ precursors in order to improve health and prevent disease. Supplementation with NAD+ or NAD+ precursors has been shown to increase energy production, promote DNA repair, and boost immune function. Additionally, supplementation with NAD precursors has been shown to improve symptoms of depression and cognitive decline.
Are there any risks associated with NAD+ supplementation?
NAD supplementation is generally considered safe. However, because NAD+ levels decline with age, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially if you are over the age of 60. Additionally, because NAD+ plays a role in signal transduction pathways, there is some concern that high levels of NAD+ could interfere with normal cellular function. More research is needed to determine whether this is a concern.
Overall, NAD+ appears to be a promising molecule with a variety of potential health benefits. However, more research is needed to determine whether supplementation is effective and safe for humans. If you're considering taking NAD+ supplements, speak with your healthcare provider first.