In this article, we’ll explain what NAD levels are and why they matter for your health. We’ll look at how NAD levels vary in mammals, how they differ between tissues and the bloodstream and the key factors that can influence them. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, we’ll also explore ways to restore them and whether this could support healthy ageing.

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about NAD levels in the body:

• NAD+ is essential for cellular function and plays a crucial role in energy production, DNA repair and overall metabolic health.

• NAD+ levels decline with age. This is linked to decreased energy, impaired cellular repair and an increased risk of age-related diseases.

• NAD levels are higher in energy-demanding tissues like neurons and much lower in the blood.

• Several factors influence NAD+ levels including age, lifestyle, diet and overall health.

• NAD+ levels can be restored via supplementation (like the Vivere Vi-Pen) and lifestyle changes like exercise and diet.

NAD levels refer to the amount of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) present in cells and tissues. NAD+ is a crucial coenzyme that plays a key role in energy production, DNA repair and other essential cellular functions. These levels can vary depending on factors such as age, cell type and overall health. Keeping NAD+ at an optimal level is important for maintaining metabolism and overall cellular health.

Why are they important as we age?

NAD+ plays a vital role in the ageing process as it is involved in essential metabolic functions and reactions that help keep cells healthy. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which can contribute to reduced energy production, impaired DNA repair and an increased risk of age-related diseases. Maintaining adequate NAD+ levels may help support overall health and slow some of the effects of ageing [1].

In mammals, NAD+ levels in cells typically range between 200 and 500 μM (micrometres), though this can vary depending on the type of cell and its function. Cells with high energy demands tend to have higher NAD+ levels to support their metabolic activity. NAD+ concentrations can also differ between cellular compartments and fluctuate based on growth conditions and metabolic states. Since NAD+ is essential for a number of processes in the body, changes in its levels can have a significant impact on overall health and cellular function.

NAD levels differ between tissues and the blood. In tissues, NAD+ concentrations can range from 10 to 1000 μM, depending on the type of cell and its metabolic activity. Cells with higher energy demands generally have greater NAD+ levels to support their function. 

On the other hand, NAD+ levels in the blood are much lower, typically between 0.1 and 0.5 μM. Blood NAD levels tend to decline gradually with age in men, while in women, they can fluctuate over time.

Several factors can influence your body's NAD levels. One of the most significant is age, as NAD+ levels naturally decline over time due to an imbalance between its production and breakdown. This decline is linked to various physiological processes associated with ageing, such as reduced energy production and decreased cellular repair [2].

Other factors, including lifestyle choices, diet, physical activity and overall health, can also impact NAD+ metabolism and its levels in the body.

NAD+ levels can be restored in several ways as we age. One of the most direct methods is through subcutaneous NAD+ injections, such as those administered with the Vivere Vi-Pen, which delivers a concentrated dose directly into the bloodstream for rapid absorption. Oral supplements and topical products also provide a more accessible way to boost NAD+ levels, however, these options are not as effective as injections.

Lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, calorie restriction and a balanced diet rich in NAD+ precursors can help support and maintain NAD+ levels naturally. It is important to seek medical advice before using any NAD+ supplement to ensure it is safe and suitable for your needs.

Maintaining healthy NAD+ levels is essential for supporting energy production, DNA repair and overall cellular function. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, this can contribute to various signs of ageing and age-related health concerns. While factors such as lifestyle, diet and physical activity can influence NAD+ levels, there are ways to restore them, including supplements, injections and dietary adjustments. If you are considering boosting your NAD+ levels, it is important to seek medical advice to ensure the most suitable approach for your individual needs.

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[1] The Central Role of the NAD+ Molecule in the Development of Aging and the Prevention of Chronic Age-Related Diseases: Strategies for NAD+ Modulation - NIH

[2] NAD metabolism: Implications in ageing and longevity - ScienceDirect

NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing - PMC

Association of Human Whole Blood NAD+ Contents With Aging - PMC