NAD+ is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing a pivotal role in various biological processes, particularly energy metabolism. As a key component of cellular respiration, NAD levels facilitate the transfer of electrons during biochemical reactions, contributing to the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — the cell’s primary energy source. Additionally, NAD+ is intricately involved in DNA repair, gene expression, and cellular signalling, making it a fundamental element in maintaining overall cellular health.
NAD+ boosts energy production
NAD+ is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing a pivotal role in various biological processes, particularly energy metabolism. As a key component of cellular respiration, NAD+ facilitates the transfer of electrons during biochemical reactions, contributing to the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — the cell’s primary energy source. Additionally, scientists have found that NAD plus is intricately involved in DNA repair, gene expression, and cellular signalling, making it a fundamental element in maintaining overall cellular health [2].
NAD+ supports DNA mechanisms
NAD+ supports DNA repair mechanisms by serving as a crucial substrate for PARP enzymes, which identify and repair DNA damage. When DNA breaks occur, PARP enzymes use NAD+ to form poly(ADP-ribose) chains, signalling the repair machinery to the damage site. This process helps maintain genomic stability and prevent mutations, ensuring the cells’ integrity and proper function [3].
NAD+ can protect against oxidative stress
Clinical studies have found that NAD+ plays a critical role in protecting against oxidative stress by participating in redox reactions, where it alternates between its oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH) forms to neutralize free radicals. By supporting the cellular antioxidant defence systems, NAD+ helps regenerate important antioxidants like glutathione, which detoxify harmful reactive oxygen species. This process reduces oxidative damage to cells, thereby promoting cellular health and longevity [2].
NAD+ can slow down the ageing process
NAD+ can slow down the aging process by activating sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate cellular health and longevity. Additionally, research suggests that NAD+ supports DNA repair mechanisms, ensuring genomic stability and reducing the accumulation of age-related mutations. By maintaining optimal cellular function and mitigating oxidative stress, NAD plus promotes overall cellular health, contributing to a slower ageing process [7].
NAD+ can improve cognitive function
NAD+ can improve cognitive performance by enhancing energy metabolism, ensuring that brain cells have sufficient ATP to function optimally. It also protects neurons from damage by reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular repair mechanisms. Additionally, NAD+ plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, crucial for efficient communication between neurons, thereby boosting cognitive functions such as mental clarity, memory and focus [4].
Furthermore, some clinical investigations have found that NAD+ might protect against Alzheimer’s disease by reducing oxidative stress, which helps prevent neuronal damage and maintain brain health. It supports neuronal health by promoting the repair of damaged cells and enhancing mitochondrial function, crucial for energy production in brain cells. Additionally, NAD+ aids in DNA repair, helping to prevent the accumulation of mutations that could contribute to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s [8].
NAD+ enhances muscle function and endurance
NAD+ improves muscle function and endurance by enhancing energy production, ensuring muscles have an ample supply of ATP during physical activity. It supports mitochondrial function, enabling optimal efficiency of the energy metabolism and reducing the build up of lactic acid that causes muscle fatigue. By maintaining optimal cellular energy levels, NAD plus helps muscles perform better and recover faster, boosting overall endurance [9].