A spotlight has been put on NAD+ supplements in recent years, thanks to claims that they can reverse the aging process and keep skin looking youthful. While NAD+ is a coenzyme that's naturally produced in the body, and its levels do decrease as we age, are these supplements a reliable replacement? Are they are magical as wellness influencers would have us believe?
To find out exactly what NAD+ is and if NAD+ supplements can reverse the aging process, we spoke with doctors to learn everything there is to know about this popular wellness trend.
What is NAD+, and how is it different from NADH?
NAD+ -- nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide -- is a coenzyme found in all living cells that keeps "everything running smoothly," explains Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich, a New York-based facial plastic surgeon who often discusses aging with patients. It "creates energy and repairs DNA" and also regulates your circadian rhythm.
"It is also involved in the function of sirtuins, proteins that help regulate cell survival and aging processes," said Nayan Patel, a doctor of pharmacy and founder of Auro Wellness. The coenzyme slightly differs from NADH, which you may also see while looking for NAD+ supplements. NAD+ is oxidized, while NADH is reduced, which means NAD+ has an extra electron; when it loses it, it becomes NADH.
Is NAD+ just vitamin B3?
NAD+ is naturally found in the body, but as you age, its levels drop, which can lead to tiredness and skin aging, Vasyukevich says. An NAD+ supplement can help combat this, as can a vitamin B3 supplement. Although vitamin B3 is not the same as NAD+, your body converts vitamin B3 into NAD+, so these extra supplements can also help your NAD+ levels.
NAD+ benefits
The primary benefit of NAD+ and, in turn, an NAD+ supplement, is that it's an energy booster. Studies -- including this 2023 study -- have shown that the coenzyme supports weight management and balances metabolism, as Vasyukevich points out.
"[NAD+] can do a few cool things," Vasyukevich says. "It can help with skin health by promoting DNA repair and fighting oxidative stress, which is a big reason skin ages. It can also give you more energy by helping your cells make more [adenosine triphosphate or ATP] -- that's the energy your body runs on."
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