NAD+
The key to cellular energy and vitality
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a key molecule for the health of our cells and energy metabolism.
It is present in every living cell in our body and plays a crucial role in numerous biological processes. NAD⁺ is increasingly becoming the focus of research into ageing in particular, because The NAD⁺ level in the body decreases significantly with increasing age. This decline is closely linked to declining cell function, reduced energy production and a variety of age-related diseases. At the same time, studies show that targeted support of the NAD⁺ balance has the potential to promote health, positively influence the ageing process and maintain quality of life into old age.
What is NAD?
NAD⁺ is a coenzyme that is involved in countless metabolic processes in our cells - especially in the conversion of food into energy. It functions as a kind of energy transporter by moving electrons back and forth between different chemical reactions. NAD⁺ is particularly important for ATP production in the mitochondria - the power plants of our cells.
But NAD⁺ can do even more: it is involved in the repair of damaged DNA, supports the activity of so-called sirtuins (also known as "longevity enzymes") and helps to protect our cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. In short: NAD⁺ is essential for the function, maintenance and regeneration of our cells.
Why do NAD⁺ levels fall with age?
With age, our body produces less NAD⁺ - at the same time, consumption increases. On the one hand, the body's own synthesis becomes slower because certain enzymes are less active. On the other hand, cells use more NAD⁺ for repair processes, for example to repair DNA damage that accumulates over the course of a lifetime. Chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and certain enzymes, such as the NAD⁺-degrading CD38, also contribute to the depletion of NAD⁺ reserves.
Added to this are lifestyle factors such as poor nutrition, lack of exercise or chronic stress, which put additional strain on the NAD⁺ balance. All of these factors lead to our cells having significantly less NAD⁺ available as we age - with noticeable consequences for energy, regeneration and cell protection.
The advantages of NAD⁺ supplementation
Targeted support of NAD⁺ levels - for example via nutritional supplements - can have many positive effects on health and well-being. The topic is becoming increasingly important, particularly in the context of healthy ageing:
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More energy in everyday life: NAD⁺ plays a central role in cellular respiration and energy production. Improved NAD⁺ availability allows the mitochondria to work more efficiently - which can result in noticeably more energy, better physical resilience and increased endurance.
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Better cell repair and protective mechanisms: NAD⁺ is important for activating enzymes that repair our DNA and protect the cell structure. This allows the cell to remain functional in the long term and slows down the effects of ageing.
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Cognitive health and brain performance: The brain relies heavily on a stable energy supply and protective mechanisms. Higher NAD⁺ levels are associated with improved neuronal function, increased concentration and potentially even protection against neurodegenerative processes.
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Cardiovascular support: The heart and blood vessels also benefit from a balanced NAD⁺ balance. There is evidence that an increase in NAD⁺ can have a positive effect on the elasticity of the blood vessels and on heart function.
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Metabolism and weight control: NAD⁺ influences various metabolic pathways, including the processing of sugar and fats. A sufficient supply can contribute to a more efficient energy metabolism and help to regulate weight better - especially in middle and old age.
How can NAD⁺ be specifically supported?
As NAD⁺ itself is not easily absorbed via the intestine, so-called precursors are used, which the body can convert into NAD⁺. Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are particularly well known. These substances are available in capsule or powder form and are well researched. Studies show that they can effectively raise NAD⁺ levels - within just a few weeks.
A healthy lifestyle also has a positive effect on NAD⁺ production. This includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep and, above all, periods of fasting or calorie reduction, which can boost NAD⁺ synthesis in the body.
If you want to boost your NAD⁺ levels in a targeted manner, you can take special dietary supplements with precursors such as NR or NMN - ideally in combination with antioxidant substances such as resveratrol or quercetin, which have a synergistic effect and keep NAD⁺ available in the body for longer.
Closing thoughts
NAD⁺ is a key molecule for energy, cell protection and longevity - and its importance for healthy ageing is becoming increasingly clear in research. As we age, NAD⁺ levels fall - and with them our ability to generate energy efficiently and repair cells.
The good news is that targeted measures - such as an adapted diet, exercise, fasting intervals and the intake of NAD⁺ precursors - can effectively support the NAD⁺ balance. So if you want to remain efficient, vital and regenerative in old age, you should include NAD⁺ in your health strategy.
A healthy NAD⁺ level is not a miracle cure - but it is a decisive factor in consciously and actively accompanying the natural ageing process.