Everything About NAD+
Healthy ageing sounds appealing, doesn't it? How can you ensure you remain fit, happy, and energetic? Lifestyle plays a significant role in this. Another key factor: your body cells. This is where NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) comes into play. This substance supports our cells and the energy providers of our body: the mitochondria. What exactly is NAD+, how does it work, and how can you increase 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 naturally present in our bodies that helps generate energy in our cells. Coenzymes are small, non-protein molecules. They enable an enzyme (protein) to perform its function. Think of it like an engine that needs 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 factories of our body cells. The 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 level.
How does NAD+ work?
NAD+ acts as a “carrier” of electrons involved in the process of converting nutrients into energy. This primarily occurs through the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in the mitochondria. Mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of the cell, are responsible for generating the energy needed to function. 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 multifaceted. It not only supports energy metabolism but also plays a crucial role in DNA repair and cell renewal. This is important for healthy ageing, as damaged cells and DNA can contribute to ageing complaints such as reduced muscle strength, poorer memory, and a decline in physical performance. By keeping the NAD+ level in the body as optimal as possible, you can delay these ageing complaints and age vitally.
Who is NAD+ for?
NAD+ is important for anyone who wants to age healthily and vitally. As you age, natural NAD+ levels decrease. This can lead to reduced cell health and less energy. You want to prevent that! Are you focusing on longevity: the extension of a healthy lifespan? Then sufficient NAD+ is a must. It is also wise for people with an active lifestyle who want to keep their physical and mental performance as optimal as possible.
Why do NAD+ levels decrease with ageing?
A common question is why NAD+ levels decrease as we age. The ageing process is accompanied by increased oxidative stress and a decrease in cell renewal, which can affect NAD+ levels. This decline in NAD+ levels can contribute to ageing symptoms such as fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and deterioration of memory. Increasing NAD+ may help counteract these effects and promote healthy 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. Additionally, NAD+ supplements can provide a direct source of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide.
How much NAD+ per day?
There is no established recommended daily amount of NAD+, but research indicates that a healthy lifestyle combined with a diet rich in vitamin B3 helps maintain balanced NAD+ levels. For those seeking extra support, there are NAD+ supplements that help increase NAD+ levels. Curious if NAD+ could benefit you? Our health coaches are ready to answer your questions.
How can you increase your own NAD+ production?
While NAD+ supplements can be useful, there are also natural ways to support the production of NAD+ in the body. Vitamin B3 is a precursor of NAD+ and is essential for maintaining a healthy NAD+ balance. By staying active and eating healthily, you can keep your NAD+ levels in check. Nutrition and exercise contribute to maintaining healthy mitochondria.
The 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, which helps in the production of energy in the cells. NADH, the reduced or "full" form, transports that energy to where it is needed and releases it for your body to use.
Together, NAD+ and NADH work in a cycle: NAD+ captures energy and transforms into NADH. Then NADH releases that energy, turning back into NAD+. This process repeats continuously to provide your cells with the energy they need to function well and stay healthy. The difference? NAD+ absorbs energy, NADH releases it. Together, they work as an energy shuttle in your body, essential for maintaining your energy balance.
Good to Know: NAD+ for a Healthy and Vital Life
We all want to age while enjoying life, but in a healthier way! NAD+ plays an important role by supporting the function of mitochondria and providing energy to our body cells. Whether you choose a diet rich in vitamin B3 or decide to try an NAD+ supplement, there are various ways to increase your NAD+ level. By consciously taking care of your health and supporting your body with the right nutrients and exercise, you are on the best path to a vital life full of energy!
Sources
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