Discover more about NAD+ and how it may affect you

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this page about NAD+

• NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell. It plays a central role in processes like energy production, DNA repair and maintaining overall cell function.

• As we age, NAD+ levels decline, which can affect how efficiently our bodies produce energy and repair cells.

• NAD+ contributes to anti-ageing by activating proteins that repair DNA, reduce oxidative stress and support cell renewal. It also helps protect brain cells and supports memory, focus and mental clarity.

• You can support natural NAD+ production by eating foods rich in vitamin B3 (such as salmon, mushrooms and peanuts), exercising regularly, getting good sleep, intermittent fasting and spending time in natural sunlight.

• NAD+ supplements are generally safe for healthy adults and legally sold in the UK as food supplements.

NAD stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body and plays a key role in many biological processes [1].

NAD+ (the oxidised form of NAD) is especially important for maintaining healthy cell function. As we age, the body’s natural levels of NAD+ decline, which can affect how well cells work. This is one of the reasons NAD+ supplements have become popular.

NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) plays a crucial role in keeping your body functioning properly. It supports a wide range of essential processes at a cellular level [2].

The main things NAD does include:

Slows ageing

NAD+ plays an important role in slowing the signs of ageing by supporting healthy cell function. As we grow older, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which can lead to reduced energy, slower cell repair and visible signs of ageing such as tiredness, reduced mental sharpness and dull skin. NAD+ contributes to anti-ageing effects in the following ways:

• DNA repair – Every day, your DNA experiences damage from things like pollution, UV exposure and natural cellular processes. NAD+ activates proteins called sirtuins, which help repair this damage and protect your genetic material.

• Cell regeneration – NAD+ supports the renewal of cells, keeping tissues such as skin, muscles and organs functioning more effectively for longer.

• Reducing oxidative stress – NAD+ helps neutralise harmful molecules known as free radicals. These can build up in the body and contribute to ageing and chronic illness.

Boosts energy levels (Cellular Respiration)

NAD+ is essential for turning the food you eat into energy your cells can use, a process known as cellular respiration. This takes place within your cells. NAD helps by:

• Transferring electrons during a series of chemical reactions that produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) – the main energy source used by your body.

• Without enough NAD+, these energy-producing pathways slow down, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.

• Supplementing NAD+ can support these processes, helping to restore energy levels, reduce fatigue and improve physical and mental performance.

Below, The Sheekey Science Show provides a simple explanation of NAD+ and why it's so important in our bodies, particularly as we get older.

NAD is found in every cell of the human body [3]. It is especially concentrated in areas where energy demand is high, such as:

• The brain – to support memory, focus and overall cognitive function

• The heart and muscles – to maintain strength, stamina and healthy circulation

• The liver and kidneys – to help with detoxification and metabolic regulation

• Skin and other tissues – to support repair, regeneration and defence against ageing

Within each cell, NAD+ is mainly located in the mitochondria (the part of the cell that produces energy), as well as in the nucleus where it helps repair DNA. Although it is present throughout the body, NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, which can affect how well your cells function.

You may see the terms NAD, NAD+, and NADH used when reading about supplementation or cellular health, but what’s the difference between them? In simple terms:

• NAD+ is the active form that helps with cell repair, ageing, and metabolism.

• NADH is the energy-carrying form that helps with energy production.

• NAD is the umbrella term used to describe the molecule in general.

NAD is an umbrella term used to describe both NAD+ and NADH. It is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It plays a vital role in a wide range of biological functions, including energy production, DNA repair and maintaining overall cellular health.

NAD+ is the oxidised form of NAD and is essential for cellular repair and metabolism. It helps regulate many important processes including energy creation, DNA repair and healthy ageing. NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, which is why many people consider supplementation to support long-term health and well-being.

NADH is the reduced form of NAD and is responsible for carrying and donating electrons during energy production. It plays a direct role in generating ATP, the energy source used by your cells. In simple terms, NADH helps convert the food you eat into the energy your body needs to function effectively.

While NAD, NAD+ and NADH are closely related, each form plays a slightly different role in keeping your body healthy. They are essential to a wide range of functions and benefit different organs and systems in specific ways.

NAD+ is especially important for areas of the body that need regular repair and maintenance. Here is a table outlining the benefits of NAD+ in different parts of the body:

NADH is vital for energy production and directly benefits organs and tissues that require a constant energy supply. Here is another table outlining the benefits of NADH in the body:

NAD as a whole (which includes both NAD+ and NADH) is crucial for overall cellular health. It acts as a central component in many of the body’s most important systems, from metabolism to brain function.

NAD+ is essential for maintaining good health because it supports the core functions that keep your body working efficiently. By supporting NAD+ levels, the body can better repair damaged cells, produce energy more efficiently and maintain overall balance. Below, we outline the main benefits of NAD+ for health and longevity:

NAD+ plays a key role in converting the food you eat into energy your cells can use. It helps drive chemical reactions in the mitochondria to produce ATP, the body’s main energy source. Without enough NAD+, energy production slows down, leading to fatigue and sluggishness.

Every day, your cells are exposed to damage from things like pollution, UV light and natural ageing. NAD+ activates a group of proteins called sirtuins, which are responsible for detecting and repairing DNA damage. By supporting this process, NAD+ helps keep your cells healthy and functioning properly over time.

The brain requires a constant supply of energy and protection against inflammation and stress. NAD+ helps maintain brain cell function, supports mental clarity and may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive issues. It also helps manage oxidative stress, which is linked to neurological conditions and memory problems.

One of the most talked-about benefits of NAD+ is its role in healthy ageing. By supporting DNA repair, reducing inflammation and helping cells produce energy efficiently, NAD+ contributes to smoother skin, better muscle function, improved energy levels and overall vitality. As a whole, it works at a cellular level to slow down the effects of ageing from within.

NAD+ levels naturally decrease as we get older. This decline plays a key role in many of the changes we associate with ageing. One of the main reasons for this drop is the increased activity of enzymes like CD38 and PARPS, which use up NAD+ faster than the body can replace it [4].

As we age, our bodies experience more inflammation, oxidative stress and DNA damage. These all demand more from the enzymes that rely on NAD+ to repair and protect cells. Over time, this leads to lower overall levels of NAD+ throughout the body.

This decline can cause a number of different issues because NAD+ is involved in so many important cellular processes, for example:

• It is required by sirtuins, which help regulate gene activity, protect against stress and support DNA repair.

• It affects circadian rhythm by influencing core clock genes like CLOCK and BMAL, which help regulate sleep, metabolism and hormone balance [2].

• It contributes to genomic instability, which is a sign of ageing. Without enough NAD+, cells struggle to repair DNA effectively, increasing the risk of age-related conditions.

As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, many people choose to support their health through NAD+ supplements, such as injections (like the ones provided by Vivere), nasal sprays or IV therapy. These supplements are designed to restore NAD+ levels, helping the body function more effectively.

Here are some of the key benefits of NAD+ supplementation:

• Increased energy levels: NAD+ is essential for converting food into energy. NAD+ supplementation can help improve physical and mental energy by supporting cellular energy production, particularly in people experiencing fatigue or low energy.

• Improved brain function: By supporting brain cell health and reducing inflammation, NAD+ supplements may enhance memory, focus and mental clarity.

• Healthy ageing support: NAD+ plays a key role in DNA repair and cellular maintenance. Supplementation may help reduce visible signs of ageing, support skin health and contribute to better long-term cellular function.

• Better metabolic health: NAD+ is involved in regulating metabolism, including how the body processes fats, sugars and nutrients. Maintaining healthy NAD+ levels may help with weight management and metabolic balance.

• Enhanced recovery and repair: NAD+ activates sirtuins and other proteins involved in repairing DNA and supporting tissue health. This can aid recovery from stress, illness or injury and support the immune system.

• Support for sleep and circadian rhythm: NAD+ helps regulate your internal body clock, which influences sleep, hormone balance and metabolic activity. Supplementing NAD+ may help improve sleep quality and overall daily rhythm.

These are administered directly into the bloodstream for fast and efficient absorption. NAD+ injections (such as those provided by Vivere) are often preferred by people looking for noticeable boosts in energy, focus, or recovery, with the ease of self-administering them at home. Self-injectable NAD+ bypasses the digestive system, which helps the body absorb the full dose more quickly.

Often offered at an in-person clinic, NAD+ IV therapy delivers the supplement directly into the bloodstream via a drip. It allows for a high dose to be delivered over a longer period, which some people find helpful for fatigue, jet lag, or general recovery. While effective, this method typically requires professional supervision and is more costly than other options.

NAD+ nasal spray is a convenient and fast-acting way to support your NAD+ levels. By delivering NAD+ directly through the nasal passages, the spray allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method is particularly appealing for people seeking cognitive benefits, as it may help improve focus, mental clarity and overall brain function. It’s also appealing for people who want an at-home option without the need for an injection.

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)

NR is a form of vitamin B3 that the body converts into NAD+. It is widely available as an oral supplement (usually in capsules or tablets) and has been shown in studies to help increase NAD+ levels [5].

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN)

Similar to NR, NMN is another NAD+ precursor. It’s naturally found in small amounts in foods like broccoli and avocado, but is also available as a supplement. NMN is growing in popularity for its potential anti-ageing effects, although more research is still ongoing [6].

In the UK, NAD+ supplements are classified as food supplements, not medicines. This means they are regulated under general food law, which is overseen by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Research into NAD+ and its potential benefits is ongoing, but early findings are promising. Studies suggest that NAD+ plays a crucial role in energy production, DNA repair, brain function and healthy ageing. Other studies have shown that increasing NAD+ levels can improve mitochondrial function, reduce inflammation and support the repair of damaged DNA.

As with all supplements, individual results may vary, and NAD+ should be used to support, not replace, a healthy lifestyle.

Yes, it is always recommended to speak to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including NAD+. NAD+ supplements are generally considered safe for most healthy adults, however, everyone’s needs and medical history are different.

A healthcare professional can help determine whether NAD+ is suitable for you, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medication, or have any underlying health conditions. They can also advise on the most appropriate dosage to support your individual goals.

NAD+ supplementation may be particularly helpful for people experiencing age-related decline, as natural NAD+ levels tend to fall as we get older. Supplementing with NAD+ may support those looking to maintain vitality, improve focus, or promote healthy ageing.

It may also benefit people with certain health conditions where low NAD+ levels are believed to play a role, such as chronic fatigue, metabolic disorders, or neurodegenerative conditions. Some people also choose NAD+ supplements to support recovery from illness, improve athletic performance, or manage the effects of high levels of stress on the body.

Aside from supplementation, there may be a few different ways to increase your NAD+ levels naturally. Below is an outline of some of the methods you can use to try and do just that.

Eating a nutrient-rich diet can help support and maintain healthy NAD+ levels. Foods high in vitamin B3, such as salmon, chicken, turkey, mushrooms and peanuts, can help your body to produce NAD+. 

Some vegetables, like broccoli and avocado, are also naturally rich in compounds that support NAD+ production. Reducing your intake of processed sugars and refined grains may also help, as these can negatively affect your metabolism and overall cellular health.

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective natural ways to boost NAD+ production. Exercise stimulates the body’s energy demands, which increases the need for NAD+ to fuel your cells. Activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or strength training can promote the activity of enzymes that help produce and recycle NAD+.

Good quality sleep supports NAD+ production by helping to regulate your circadian rhythm [7]. NAD+ works closely with proteins involved in maintaining this rhythm. To support natural NAD+ levels, try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, limit screen time before bed and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

Intermittent fasting, which involves eating within a specific time window, may naturally increase NAD+ levels by reducing how often the body needs to produce insulin and digest food. This can encourage the body to switch to using stored energy, a process that relies on NAD+. Fasting also promotes the activity of certain enzymes called sirtuins, which use NAD+ to help with cell repair and longevity [8].

Regular exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which plays a key role in NAD+ production [9]. Sunlight signals your body that it’s time to be awake and active, helping to keep your internal clock in balance. This daily rhythm is closely linked to the enzymes that manage NAD+ levels. Aim to spend 15–30 minutes outdoors each day, particularly early in the day, to support both your mood and your body’s natural NAD+ cycle [10].

For most healthy adults, NAD+ supplementation is generally considered safe when taken properly. However, because NAD+ supplements can affect important cellular processes, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take regular medication.

In the UK, NAD+ is not licensed by the MHRA for medical use. This means it is not approved for use on the NHS and cannot be prescribed as a treatment for any disease or medical condition. NAD+ supplements are currently regulated as food supplements, not medicines.

While NAD+ supplements are generally considered safe for most healthy adults, there are certain groups who should avoid or take extra caution when considering their use:

• People with liver or kidney conditions: These organs play a key role in processing supplements. If you have liver or kidney issues, taking NAD+ could place extra strain on these systems.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: There is currently not enough research to confirm the safety of NAD+ supplements during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. As a precaution, it’s advised to avoid them unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

• People taking blood thinners or with low blood pressure: NAD+ supplements may affect blood pressure or interact with anticoagulant medications, potentially leading to unwanted side effects.

• People with cancer: People who have an active cancer or people undergoing chemotherapy should avoid NAD+.

• Children: NAD+ supplements are not recommended for children, as there is limited safety data on their use in younger age groups.

If you fall into any of these categories or are unsure whether NAD+ is right for you, it’s best to consult with a doctor for advice before starting supplementation.

While early research into NAD+ supplementation is promising, there is still much to learn about its long-term effects, ideal dosages and how it may interact with other health conditions or medications. What works well for one person may not be suitable for another.

It’s important to speak to a qualified healthcare professional before starting NAD+ supplements. They can help determine whether it’s appropriate for your individual health needs and advise on safe usage.

​Yes, NAD+ supplements are legal in the UK when sold as food supplements. They are regulated under the UK Food Supplements Regulations, which define food supplements as concentrated sources of nutrients or other substances with nutritional or physiological effects. However, NAD+ is not licensed by the MHRA for medical use. It's important to note that NAD⁺ is not approved for use on the NHS.

The effects of NAD+ supplements can vary depending on the type of supplement, the dose and your individual health and lifestyle. Some forms have been shown to raise NAD+ levels in the blood within 12 to 48 hours when taken at higher doses.

Many people notice changes within 2 to 3 weeks of daily supplementation, including improvements in energy levels, mental clarity and general wellbeing. However, it may take several weeks or even a few months to experience the full benefits [11].

As with all supplements, results may vary. Consistency is key and it’s important to pair supplementation with a healthy lifestyle for the best results. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the right dose and approach for your individual needs.

Yes, NAD+ supplements can generally be taken alongside other vitamins and supplements, but it’s important to do so with care. While many people include NAD+ as part of a broader supplement routine, combining different products can sometimes affect how your body absorbs or responds to them.

If you have any underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of cancer, or if you’re taking prescription medications, it's especially important to consult your healthcare provider first. They can provide personalised advice on how to safely combine NAD+ with your existing supplements and medications, helping you get the most benefit while avoiding potential interactions.

A balanced and nutritious diet can help support your body’s natural production of NAD+. Foods rich in vitamin B3 (such as fish, poultry, dairy and leafy greens) provide important building blocks for maintaining healthy NAD+ levels. However, even with a healthy diet, NAD+ levels naturally decline as we age, and this decline can affect energy production, cellular repair and overall wellbeing.

For some people, particularly older adults or those with certain metabolic conditions, diet alone may not be enough to restore optimal NAD+ levels. In these cases, supplementing with NAD+ may help maintain cellular function and support healthy ageing.

NAD+ is a vital compound that supports a wide range of important functions in the body, from energy production and DNA repair to brain health and healthy ageing. While supplementation may offer potential benefits, particularly for those experiencing age-related decline or low energy, it is not suitable for everyone and should never be viewed as a replacement for a balanced lifestyle or medical treatment. 

The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or registered nutritionist before making any major changes to your health routine, including starting a new supplement. They can help you determine what’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

[1] The therapeutic perspective of NAD+ precursors in age-related diseases - ScienceDirect

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

[3] What is NAD? | FutureYou Cambridge

[4] Why NAD+ Declines during Aging: It’s Destroyed - PMC

[5] Emerging Role of Nicotinamide Riboside in Health and Diseases - PMC

[6] Recent research into nicotinamide mononucleotide and ageing - Nature

[7] Chronic dietary supplementation with nicotinamide riboside reduces sleep need in the laboratory mouse - PMC

[8] Fasting promotes the expression of SIRT1, an NAD+ -dependent protein deacetylase, via activation of PPARalpha in mice - PubMed

[9] Time-of-day defines NAD+ efficacy to treat diet-induced metabolic disease by synchronizing the hepatic clock in mice | Nature Communications

[10] Effect of circadian rhythm on NAD and other metabolites in human brain - PMC

[11] A single oral supplementation of nicotinamide within the daily tolerable upper level increases blood NAD+ levels in healthy subjects - ScienceDirect

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide | NAD+ Structure & Functions | Study.com.