TL;DR
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell, essential for energy production, DNA repair, and activating longevity pathways like sirtuins. Levels naturally decline from around age 40, contributing to fatigue, metabolic issues, and accelerated ageing. You can boost NAD+ naturally through diet, exercise, calorie restriction, and supplements such as NMN, NR, and tryptophan. Youth & Earth offers pharmaceutical-grade NR, NMN, and PRESERVAGE — products designed to elevate NAD+ and support healthy ageing.
Science Snapshot
- Core function: NAD+ is essential for ATP production in mitochondria.
- Longevity link: Activates sirtuins, supports DNA repair, regulates circadian rhythm.
- Decline with age: Drops by up to 50% by midlife, contributing to metabolic and immune decline.
- Boosting: Precursors like NMN and NR, lifestyle habits, and calorie restriction can restore levels.
What Is NAD+ and How Does It Work?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme present in every cell, critical for converting nutrients into cellular energy (ATP) and supporting essential biological processes like DNA repair and gene expression.
NAD+ vs NADH
NAD+ is the oxidised form, positively charged and ready to accept electrons. NADH is the reduced form, carrying electrons. Together they form a redox couple, constantly cycling in energy production.
How the Body Produces NAD+
- De Novo Synthesis: From tryptophan via nicotinic acid mononucleotide (NAMN).
- Preiss–Handler Pathway: From niacin (vitamin B3) via NAMN.
- Salvage Pathway: From nicotinamide (NAM) via NMN, recycling NAD+ after use.
Why NAD+ Matters for Longevity
Activates sirtuins
These proteins regulate cellular health and cannot function without NAD+.
Supports fat metabolism
Facilitates fat oxidation, reducing risk of obesity-related conditions.
Boosts DNA repair
Works with PARPs to maintain genomic stability and immune function.
Enhances muscle performance
Supports energy transfer for skeletal muscle growth and recovery.
Why NAD+ Levels Drop With Age
- Increased CD38 enzyme activity, depleting NAD+.
- Reduced NAMPT expression, limiting NAD+ synthesis.
- PARP overactivation during DNA repair, consuming NAD+.
How to Boost NAD+ Naturally
Nutrition
- Protein sources (poultry, fish, eggs) for tryptophan and niacinamide.
- Green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli) for NAD precursors.
- Whole grains and mushrooms for vitamin B complex support.
Supplements
- NR (Nicotinamide Riboside): Available as Youth & Earth pharmaceutical-grade sublingual powder.
- NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide): Rapidly boosts NAD+, available in Youth & Earth sublingual form.
- Niacinamide: Converts to NAD+ without the flushing of niacin.
- Preservage: Combines trans-resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, and Bioperine to boost NAD+ and activate sirtuins.
Calorie restriction
Shown to raise NAD+ levels and improve longevity biomarkers — can be mimicked by berberine-containing products like Youth & Earth RELEAF.
Exercise
Stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and NAD+ production.
Conclusion & Checklist
NAD+ is essential for energy, repair, and resilience. Protecting and boosting it is a core biohacking and anti-ageing strategy.
- Eat NAD+-supportive foods daily.
- Consider NMN, NR, or Preservage supplementation.
- Integrate calorie restriction or mimetics.
- Exercise regularly for mitochondrial health.
FAQ
At what age should I start boosting NAD+?
Levels decline from age 40, but proactive support earlier can help maintain function.
Can I get enough NAD+ from food?
Food provides precursors, but supplementation is often needed for therapeutic effects.
What’s better — NMN or NR?
Both are effective precursors. NMN may act faster; NR has strong evidence for safety and efficacy.
Glossary
NAD+: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, essential for energy and cellular repair.
NADH: Reduced form of NAD+, carries electrons for ATP production.
Sirtuins: Proteins regulating cellular health, activated by NAD+.
PARPs: Enzymes that repair DNA and consume NAD+.
Medical Disclaimer
The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement regimen.
