All about NAD+
Healthy ageing sounds promising, doesn't it? How do you ensure you remain fit, happy, and energetic? Lifestyle plays a significant role in this. Another key factor: your body's cells. This is where NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) comes into play. This compound supports our cells and the body's energy suppliers: the mitochondria. What exactly is NAD+, how does it work, and how can you boost its production in your body? In this blog, we delve deeper into these questions and discover how NAD+ can contribute to your vitality and longevity.
What is NAD+?
NAD+, or Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is a coenzyme that naturally occurs in our body and aids in energy production within our cells. Coenzymes are small, non-protein molecules. They ensure that an enzyme (protein) can perform its function. Think of it like an engine needing fuel to run: coenzymes, such as NAD+, ensure that the 'engine' in your cells – the enzymes – work optimally. Very important indeed!
NAD+ plays a central role in various cellular processes and supports the function of mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of our cells. Mitochondria use NAD+ to release the energy your body needs. Unfortunately, as you age, the level of NAD+ in your body decreases. This affects cell health and your overall energy levels.
How does NAD+ work?
NAD+ functions as an “electron carrier” involved in the process of converting nutrients into energy. This mainly occurs through the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in the mitochondria. Mitochondria, the “power plants” of the cell, are responsible for generating the energy needed for functioning. ATP is one of the energy sources in our body that allows you to perform daily activities such as working, walking, sleeping, and exercising. NAD+ plays a key role in converting nutrients into usable energy. Without sufficient NAD+, mitochondrial function can decline, leading to reduced energy metabolism and cell renewal. This process is often linked to ageing and a decrease in vitality.
What is NAD+ good for?
The role of NAD+ in the body is versatile. It not only supports energy metabolism but also plays an important role in DNA repair and cell renewal. This is crucial for healthy ageing, as damaged cells and DNA can contribute to ageing.
Who is NAD+ for?
As you age, natural NAD+ levels decrease. It is also wise for people with an active lifestyle who wish to maintain their physical and mental performance at an optimal level.
Why do NAD+ levels decrease with ageing?
A common question is why NAD+ levels decrease as we age. The ageing process is associated with increased oxidative stress and a decrease in cell renewal, which can affect NAD+ levels. This decline in NAD+ levels can contribute to signs of ageing.
Where is NAD+ found?
NAD+ itself is not directly found in foods, but the body can produce it from various nutrients, such as vitamin B3 (niacin). Foods rich in vitamin B3, such as fish, chicken, mushrooms, and whole grains, can help maintain NAD+ levels in your body.
How much NAD+ per day?
There is no recommended daily amount of NAD+ established, but research suggests that a healthy lifestyle, combined with a diet rich in vitamin B3, helps keep NAD+ levels balanced.
How can you increase your NAD+ production?
There are natural ways to support NAD+ production in the body. Vitamin B3 is a precursor to NAD+ and is essential for maintaining a healthy NAD+ balance. Additionally, staying active and eating healthily helps keep your NAD+ levels in check. Nutrition and exercise contribute to maintaining healthy mitochondria.
Difference between NAD, NAD+, and NADH: briefly explained
Although NAD, NAD+, and NADH all belong to the same family, each plays a unique role in the body. NAD, NAD+, and NADH are all involved in your cells' energy supply but work in slightly different ways. NAD+ is the oxidised or "empty" form that aids in energy production in the cells. NADH, the reduced or "full" form, transports that energy to where it is needed and releases it, so your body can use it.
Together, NAD+ and NADH work in a cycle: NAD+ captures energy and converts into NADH. Then NADH releases that energy, transforming back into NAD+. This process repeats itself to supply your cells with the energy they need to function well and stay healthy. The difference? NAD+ absorbs energy, NADH releases it. Thus, they work together as a sort of energy shuttle in your body, essential for maintaining your energy balance.
Good to know
We all want to age while enjoying life, but in a healthier way! NAD+ plays an important role in this by supporting mitochondrial function and providing energy to our body cells. By being mindful of your health and supporting your body with the right nutrients and exercise, you follow the best path to a vital life full of energy!
Sources
- Belenky, P., Bogan, K. L., & Brenner, C. (2007). NAD+ metabolism in health and disease. Trends in Biochemical Sciences, 32(1), 12-19.
- Verdin, E. (2015). NAD+ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. Science, 350(6265), 1208-1213.
- Canto, C., Menzies, K. J., & Auwerx, J. (2015). NAD+ metabolism and the control of energy homeostasis: A balancing act between mitochondria and the nucleus. Cell Metabolism, 22(1), 31-53.
- Mills, K. F., Yoshida, S., Stein, L. R., Grozio, A., Kubota, S., Sasaki, Y., … Imai, S. (2016). Long-term administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide mitigates age-associated physiological decline in mice. Cell Metabolism, 24(6), 795-806.
- Imai, S., & Guarente, L. (2014). NAD+ and sirtuins in aging and disease. Trends in Cell Biology, 24(8), 464-471.
