NAD+: The Cellular Powerhouse Behind Energy & Longevity
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme found in every cell of the human body, playing a critical role in energy production and cellular repair. First discovered in 1906 by Arthur Harden and William John Young while studying fermentation, NAD+ has since been recognized as a cornerstone of cellular metabolism . It acts as a key player in converting nutrients into energy by enabling mitochondrial function, which powers nearly every biological process. Without adequate NAD+ levels, cells struggle to perform optimally, leading to fatigue, reduced cellular repair, and impaired resilience to stress .
As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, and lifestyle factors such as chronic stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can accelerate this reduction . Scientists have linked lower NAD+ levels to reduced DNA repair, increased oxidative stress, and diminished mitochondrial function—all of which are associated with aging and various chronic diseases . Supplementation strategies such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) have been shown to increase NAD+ levels, and early studies suggest potential benefits for supporting energy metabolism, cognitive health, cardiovascular function, and even lifespan .
Emerging research on NAD+ supplementation—like that of Trammell et al. (2016) and Yoshino et al. (2018)—suggests its ability to boost cellular resilience and improve metabolic health . While long-term clinical outcomes are still being studied, NAD+ therapies like Niagen IV offer a direct way to support healthy NAD+ levels, giving the body an edge in recovery, energy, and cellular health. This next-generation approach represents a promising advancement in preventive wellness and performance optimization, one backed by decades of biochemical research.
References:
Harden, A., & Young, W.J. (1906). The alcoholic ferment of yeast-juice. Proc. Royal Society.
Bogan, K.L., & Brenner, C. (2008). Nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and nicotinamide riboside: A molecular evaluation of NAD+ precursor vitamins in human nutrition. Annual Review of Nutrition.
Verdin, E. (2015). NAD+ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. Science.
Mouchiroud, L., et al. (2013). The NAD+/Sirtuin pathway modulates longevity. Cell.
Trammell, S.A., et al. (2016). Nicotinamide riboside is uniquely and orally bioavailable in mice and humans. Nature Communications.
Yoshino, J., et al. (2018). Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women. Science.
