If you’ve heard the wellness buzz around NAD⁺ supplements, you’re not alone. NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell in your body, playing a crucial role in energy production and cellular repair. In simple terms, NAD⁺ is like the battery pack that keeps your cells running smoothly. As we age, NAD⁺ levels naturally decline, which is why researchers are exploring whether supplements—taken orally as tablets or delivered via IV—can help restore vitality, improve metabolism, and even slow some aspects of aging (Verdin, 2015; Rajman et al., 2018).
Health Benefits Backed by Science
Research has shown that boosting NAD⁺ levels may support mitochondrial function (the “powerhouses” of our cells), enhance DNA repair, and reduce age-related metabolic decline. A 2018 clinical study published in Nature Communications found that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of NAD⁺ precursor, increased NAD⁺ levels in humans and improved certain markers of cardiovascular health (Martens et al., 2018). Other studies suggest NAD⁺ may also play a role in brain health, with potential benefits for cognitive function and protection against neurodegeneration (Poljsak & Milisav, 2016). While more research is needed, early evidence points to promising health benefits.
IV vs. Oral Supplements
NAD⁺ can be supplemented in two main ways: oral tablets (usually NAD⁺ precursors like NR or NMN) or intravenous (IV) infusions. Oral supplements are more convenient and supported by clinical trials showing that precursors can effectively raise NAD⁺ levels (Trammell et al., 2016). IV therapy, on the other hand, delivers NAD⁺ directly into the bloodstream, bypassing digestion. Advocates of IV NAD⁺ claim it provides faster, more noticeable benefits like improved energy and mental clarity, though robust scientific evidence for IV therapy is still limited (Grant et al., 2019). Oral precursors, while slower, currently have stronger clinical support.
The Bottom Line
NAD⁺ supplementation—whether through tablets or IV—has exciting potential, but it’s not a miracle cure. The science is promising, especially for energy metabolism, cellular repair, and cardiovascular health, but long-term safety and effectiveness still require more research. If you’re curious about trying NAD⁺ supplements, consult a healthcare provider first—especially if you’re considering IV therapy, which should only be done under medical supervision. In the meantime, lifestyle habits like exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet remain proven ways to naturally support healthy NAD⁺ levels. As always, consult your health practitioner before embarking upon any new supplement regime. Make certain that there are no contraindications with your prescription medications.
In your best interest,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
Bibliography
Health Benefits Backed by Science
Research has shown that boosting NAD⁺ levels may support mitochondrial function (the “powerhouses” of our cells), enhance DNA repair, and reduce age-related metabolic decline. A 2018 clinical study published in Nature Communications found that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of NAD⁺ precursor, increased NAD⁺ levels in humans and improved certain markers of cardiovascular health (Martens et al., 2018). Other studies suggest NAD⁺ may also play a role in brain health, with potential benefits for cognitive function and protection against neurodegeneration (Poljsak & Milisav, 2016). While more research is needed, early evidence points to promising health benefits.
IV vs. Oral Supplements
NAD⁺ can be supplemented in two main ways: oral tablets (usually NAD⁺ precursors like NR or NMN) or intravenous (IV) infusions. Oral supplements are more convenient and supported by clinical trials showing that precursors can effectively raise NAD⁺ levels (Trammell et al., 2016). IV therapy, on the other hand, delivers NAD⁺ directly into the bloodstream, bypassing digestion. Advocates of IV NAD⁺ claim it provides faster, more noticeable benefits like improved energy and mental clarity, though robust scientific evidence for IV therapy is still limited (Grant et al., 2019). Oral precursors, while slower, currently have stronger clinical support.
The Bottom Line
NAD⁺ supplementation—whether through tablets or IV—has exciting potential, but it’s not a miracle cure. The science is promising, especially for energy metabolism, cellular repair, and cardiovascular health, but long-term safety and effectiveness still require more research. If you’re curious about trying NAD⁺ supplements, consult a healthcare provider first—especially if you’re considering IV therapy, which should only be done under medical supervision. In the meantime, lifestyle habits like exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet remain proven ways to naturally support healthy NAD⁺ levels. As always, consult your health practitioner before embarking upon any new supplement regime. Make certain that there are no contraindications with your prescription medications.
In your best interest,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
Bibliography
- Verdin, E. (2015). NAD⁺ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. Science, 350(6265), 1208–1213.
- Rajman, L., Chwalek, K., & Sinclair, D. A. (2018). Therapeutic potential of NAD-boosting molecules: The in vivo evidence. Cell Metabolism, 27(3), 529–547.
- Martens, C. R., et al. (2018). Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD⁺ in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Nature Communications, 9(1), 1286.
- Poljsak, B., & Milisav, I. (2016). NAD⁺ as the link between oxidative stress, inflammation, caloric restriction, exercise, DNA repair, longevity, and health span. Rejuvenation Research, 19(5), 406–413.
- Trammell, S. A., et al. (2016). Nicotinamide riboside increases NAD⁺ in humans safely and sustainably. Nature Communications, 7, 12948.
- Grant, R., et al. (2019). The role of NAD⁺ in the human body and potential therapeutic applications. Nutrients, 11(6), 1490.
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