Our health conversations often circle back to energy—how to get it, how to keep it, and how to age while maintaining it. One key player in that discussion is NAD+, a crucial molecule that quietly drives countless processes in our cells every day. As interest in longevity and vitality grows, many turn to NAD supplements in the hopes of enhancing energy, metabolism, and healthy aging. But before diving into the trend, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and the nuances behind NAD supplementation.

NAD Supplements  as a Coenzyme

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme that promotes cellular energy production and supports cellular metabolism. NAD+ is something that your microbiome makes. Marketed to boost energy and healthy aging, but it is limited in its impact. Especially helpful for neurogenerative disorders like Parkinson’s, and improves insulin sensitivity.

The Concern About NAD Supplementation

It does come with the possibility of side effects like nausea, headache, diarrhea, and bloating. However, even more concerning is our lack of understanding of its long-term supplemental effects, such as potentially fueling the growth of cancer cells if the body is not able to repair damaged DNA quickly enough. So far, we understand that cancer cells in a tumor consume a lot of NAD. Let’s explore the old-fashioned ways of increasing NAD-antioxidants!

Alternatives to NAD Supplements

NAD supplements can influence cellular energy and metabolism, though some have not been well studied; however, there are safer supplements and treatment options that can be used to increase the body’s ability to make the right amount of NAD. Glutathione is a tool that can be very helpful in chronic conditions or temporarily; however, long-term use can be expensive, less effective, and may subdue the body’s ability to make its own powerful version of this antioxidant.

Supplementation for Healthy NAD Production

Other supplements, such as magnesium, are also a great way to encourage the enzymatic processes that rely on NAD+. Selenium can have a protective effect on gut microbiota metabolism, which ensures regular manufacturing of NAD. 

Quercetin, Resveratrol, L-theanine, and any other antioxidant can help maintain a healthy balance of NAD at physiological levels without the risk of promoting cancer growth. The immune system is complex, and we really are just scratching the surface in understanding its ability to balance and redirect nutrients.

Lifestyle Support for NAD

Eat foods that contain B3. If you are eating meat, fish, and veggies, you are likely getting your B3. Well-balanced multivitamins don’t hurt to cover your basics on a daily basis. Regular exercise increases your ability to detox, absorb nutrients, and increase your antioxidant levels. 

Take care of your microbiome. This ranges from stress management since your gut is dried out by stress to ensuring fiber to feed your living world down there to protecting it from dysbiosis or imbalance of bacteria. The basics, right? Antioxidants have extra electrons in their rings that they can donate to repair damaged DNA. Damaged DNA is a part of life and aging, but the ability to repair is key. NAD supplementation seems like an easy way to make that happen, but not without the risks.

NAD+ and the Gut Microbiome 

The relationship between NAD+ levels and gut health is only slightly understood in the research. The barrier of the gut lining is essential for health. NAD+ helps support the integrity of this barrier, which keeps harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and prevents food from passing before proper digestion. Adequate levels of NAD+ support a balanced line of gut bugs and encourage the beneficial bacteria to thrive. A healthy microbiome increases the ability to make NAD+ and NAD+ in adequate levels, protecting the environment.

Biggest Impacts of NAD Supplements

Cellular energy: NAD+ is a critical coenzyme for cellular metabolism and energy production. Supplements can help replenish declining NAD+ levels that occur with age, potentially improving energy and vitality.

Healthy aging: By supporting cellular energy and DNA repair, NAD+ supplements are being investigated for their potential to support healthy aging and address age-related conditions.

Metabolic health: Some clinical trials suggest that NAD+ restoration may benefit metabolic health by improving factors like insulin sensitivity.

Cognitive function: Animal studies indicate that boosting NAD+ levels can improve learning and memory, though human trials have shown mixed results.

Supporting Your Cellular Health Naturally

While NAD supplements show potential benefits, they’re not a substitute for the body’s natural balance and cellular repair mechanisms. Supporting your body through nutrition, movement, and mindful supplementation can create a more sustainable foundation for energy and longevity.

At Journey of Health, we help you uncover the root causes of fatigue, cellular imbalance, and nutrient needs—guiding you toward safe, natural approaches that truly support your body’s ability to thrive.

Ready to explore a holistic path to improving your cellular health? Schedule a consultation today with Journey of Health to begin your personalized wellness journey.