NAD+ Supplementation Therapy

NAD+ supplementation therapy is a medical approach aimed at increasing the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a vital coenzyme involved in essential physiological processes such as energy metabolism, DNA repair, and immune function regulation. NAD+ levels in various human tissues, including skin, blood, liver, muscle, and brain, are believed to decline with age. This decline is associated with age-related disorders such as metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular issues.

NAD+ Precursors

NAD+ precursors are compounds that can boost intracellular NAD+ levels. The two main NAD+ precursors are nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). These compounds can be converted to NAD+ in the body.

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)

NR is a form of vitamin B3 that has been shown to increase NAD+ levels in humans. Studies indicate that NR supplementation can positively influence vascular endothelial function, increase mitochondrial number, and improve gut microbiota composition in healthy adults. Preclinical studies suggest benefits for energy metabolism, kidney disease, and cognitive decline, though further human studies are needed. NR is considered safe and well-tolerated in dosages of 250–1000 mg/day.

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN)

NMN is part of the same NAD+ biosynthetic pathway as NR. Human studies have shown NMN to improve muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women, enhance aerobic capacity in runners, and reduce fatigue in older adults. Preclinical research suggests potential benefits for diabetes-related cognitive deficits, heart failure, cognition, and fertility, which require further human confirmation. NMN is also considered safe and well-tolerated in dosages of 250–1000 mg/day.

Role in Age-Related Disease Mitigation

Supplementation with NAD+ precursors has shown promise in mitigating age-related diseases. NMN has demonstrated therapeutic potential in age-related chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and cognitive impairment.

Timing of Consumption

The timing of NAD+ precursor consumption might be significant, with potential optimization during peak NAD+ metabolism periods around noon.

Conclusion

NAD+ supplementation therapy, particularly through precursors like NR and NMN, shows promise in boosting NAD+ levels, which decline with age and contribute to metabolic syndrome and aging. However, further long-term human studies are needed to confirm these effects and to fully understand the safety and physiological effects of NAD+ precursor supplementation in the human population.