NAD+: CELLULAR ENERGY AND ANTI-AGING
- Barbara Bartee
- Oct 19, 2025
- 3 min read
OVERVIEW:
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells
Essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular metabolism
Naturally declines with age, decreasing approximately 50% by age 40-60
WHAT DOES NAD+ DO?
Enhances cellular energy production and ATP synthesis
Supports DNA repair and genomic stability
Activates sirtuins for longevity and anti-aging effects
Improves mitochondrial function and biogenesis
Enhances cognitive function and mental clarity
Supports metabolic health and insulin sensitivity
USES:
Anti-aging and longevity optimization
Energy enhancement and fatigue reduction
Cognitive function and mental clarity
Athletic performance and recovery
Metabolic health and weight management
Neurological support and neuroprotection
Addiction recovery support
NAD+ RESEARCH
Cellular Energy Production: NAD+ is crucial for cellular respiration and ATP production in mitochondria. It acts as an electron carrier in metabolic processes, converting nutrients into usable cellular energy through the electron transport chain.
DNA Repair and Genomic Stability: NAD+ is required for PARP enzyme function, which repairs DNA damage and maintains genomic integrity. Adequate NAD+ levels support cellular repair mechanisms and reduce age-related DNA damage accumulation.
Sirtuin Activation: NAD+ activates sirtuins (SIRT1-7), proteins that regulate cellular health, longevity, inflammation, and stress resistance. Sirtuin activation is linked to increased lifespan and healthspan in multiple organisms.
Age-Related Decline: NAD+ levels decline significantly with aging due to increased consumption by PARP and CD38 enzymes, reduced biosynthesis, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This decline contributes to age-related diseases and cellular dysfunction.
Neuroprotection: NAD+ supports brain health through enhanced mitochondrial function, reduced neuroinflammation, and improved synaptic plasticity. Studies suggest benefits for neurodegenerative conditions and cognitive decline.
Metabolic Benefits: NAD+ improves insulin sensitivity, enhances fat oxidation, and supports healthy glucose metabolism. It plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and preventing metabolic syndrome.
Potential Mechanism of Action: NAD+ works through multiple pathways:
Serves as coenzyme for energy metabolism (glycolysis, TCA cycle, electron transport)
Activates sirtuin proteins for longevity and cellular health
Supports PARP enzymes for DNA repair
Enhances mitochondrial function and biogenesis
Regulates circadian rhythm and cellular stress responses
Modulates inflammation and immune function
NAD+ LIFESTYLE SUPPORT
LIFESTYLE SUPPORT:
Regular exercise to boost natural NAD+ production
Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) for circadian rhythm and NAD+ synthesis
Intermittent fasting or caloric restriction enhances NAD+ levels
Limit excessive alcohol consumption (depletes NAD+)
Reduce oxidative stress through antioxidant-rich diet
Sun exposure for vitamin D and circadian support
Stress management for reduced NAD+ consumption
WHAT TO EXPECT:
IMPORTANT: NAD+ effects build over time with consistent supplementation!
Enhanced energy and reduced fatigue within days to weeks
Improved mental clarity and cognitive function
Better exercise performance and recovery
Enhanced mood and stress resilience
Long-term anti-aging and cellular health benefits
Individual responses vary based on baseline NAD+ status
Effects most noticeable in those with deficiency
NAD+ DOSING + CYCLING
Injectable NAD+ Protocol:
NAD+ | Bacteriostatic water added | Strength mg/mL | Dose | Frequency | Supply |
500 mg Vial | 5 mL | 100mg/mL | 50-100mg | 2-3x weekly | 5-10 injections |
Cycling: Continuous use typical, or 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection
Slow injection to minimize discomfort
Start with lower doses to assess tolerance
Can increase to 100-250mg for intensive protocols
NAD+ DOSING + CYCLING
IV Infusion Protocol (Clinical Setting):
NAD+ | Saline/Fluid | Dose Range | Frequency | Duration |
NAD+ | 250-500mL | 250-1000mg | 1-2x weekly | 2-4 hours per infusion |
Cycling: Weekly or bi-weekly infusions, ongoing or periodic intensive protocols
Must be administered slowly (over 2-4 hours)
Clinical supervision required
Higher bioavailability than other methods
More expensive but most effective delivery
NAD+ PRECURSOR ALTERNATIVES:
Oral NAD+ Precursors (Non-Injectable):
Compound | Typical Dose | Frequency | Bioavailability |
NMN | 250-500mg | Daily | Moderate-High |
NR | 300-500mg | Daily | High |
Niacin | 50-500mg | Daily | Moderate (flushing) |
Niacinamide | 500-1000mg | Daily | Moderate |
Note: Oral precursors convert to NAD+ in cells and may be more practical for long-term use
NAD+: SCREENING
NAD+ is generally safe but requires consideration of specific conditions.
Screening Questions:
Do you have any cardiovascular conditions or arrhythmias?
Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you have a history of cancer (especially hormone-sensitive)?
Are you taking blood pressure or diabetes medications?
Reasons:
NAD+ can affect cardiovascular function and blood pressure
Safety during pregnancy/breastfeeding not established
Sirtuin activation effects on cancer cells not fully understood
May affect glucose metabolism and blood pressure regulation
Note: NAD+ infusions can cause temporary side effects including nausea, flushing, cramping, or anxiety during administration. Starting with lower doses and slower infusion rates minimizes these effects. Injectable NAD+ is generally better tolerated than IV infusions.
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