The Health Benefits of NAD+

In this article:

‍

Imagine a molecule so powerful it fuels the very engine of your cells, repairs your DNA, helps you lose weight, and could even slow down aging. Meet nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide -- NAD+ for short. NAD+ is a tiny coenzyme that plays a big role in cellular energy production. From boosting energy to sharpening your mind to helping with weight loss, NAD+ is emerging as a superstar supplement, especially for people with hypothyroidism. In this article, we’ll learn more about NAD+, how it works, its general health benefits, how it can help with weight loss, and its benefits for people with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. We’ll also look at any risks and side effects associated with NAD+ and what the future holds for NAD+ therapies.

NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It is critical for cellular processes such as metabolism, DNA repair, and cell signaling. NAD+ transfers electrons in metabolic reactions, enabling the production of ATP, which stands for adenosine triphosphate. ATP is like the cell’s energy currency. It powers many processes inside cells, like moving muscles, sending nerve signals, making chemicals, and passing messages between cells.

NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, contributing to reduced energy production and increased damage to your cells.

NAD+ is an important regulator of your cells’ health in several ways:

• Energy metabolism: NAD+ is crucial for breaking down nutrients and turning them into usable energy in the form of ATP. One way this is done is through glycolysis, which converts glucose into energy.
• DNA repair: NAD+ activates enzymes that are crucial for repairing damaged DNA.
• Regulation of longevity genes: NAD+ is a cofactor for sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate aging, stress responses, and the function of mitochondria, the power plants in your cells.
• Cellular stress response: NAD+ is involved in processes that protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

While NAD+ itself is not directly consumed through food, its NAD+ precursors –compounds that the body can convert into NAD+ – are present in various foods:

• Niacin (vitamin B3): Found in chicken, tuna, peanuts, and mushrooms, niacin – also known as vitamin B3 – is a precursor that can help maintain NAD+ levels.
• Nicotinamide riboside (NR): Present in milk and yeast, NR is a more direct precursor to NAD+ and is often included in dietary supplements.
• Tryptophan: This amino acid, found in turkey, eggs, and cheese, can be metabolized into NAD+ through a multi-step pathway.
• Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN): Although NMN is not commonly found in significant amounts in foods, small quantities are present in edamame, broccoli, and avocados.

While food sources can provide precursors to NAD+, supplementation with NAD+ precursors like NR or NMN is usually required to reach therapeutic levels.

How can NAD+ benefit your health? There are many areas where NAD+ can support your wellness.

Improved energy production: By enhancing ATP production, NAD+ supports your physical and mental energy levels. This is especially helpful if you have chronic fatigue or mitochondrial dysfunction.

Metabolic health: NAD+ plays a role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, making it valuable for managing conditions like pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Restoration of NAD+ levels has been linked to the reversal of many metabolic conditions in animal studies. In humans, NAD+ supplementation may support metabolic function and assist in weight loss by improving the body’s ability to utilize fat cells for energy.

Cognitive function

NAD+ plays a vital role in maintaining your cognitive health. Research shows that NAD+ helps improve brain flexibility, lowers inflammation in the brain, and promotes mental sharpness. Patients often report improved mental clarity, memory, and ability to focus after NAD+ therapy.

Aging and cellular health: NAD+ activates enzymes that repair DNA and protect against cellular aging, potentially slowing the progression of age-related diseases. NAD+ supplementation may help slow the aging process and delay the onset of age-related conditions.

Mood regulation: Some studies suggest that NAD+ therapy may help manage anxiety and depression by modulating neurotransmitter levels and promoting better mood regulation.

Heart health: NAD+ supplementation can help improve cardiovascular function. Studies have shown a trend towards lower blood pressure and reduced aortic stiffness. In heart failure patients, restoring NAD+ to healthy levels was associated with increased mitochondrial function and reduced inflammation.

Immune function: By modulating inflammatory responses, NAD+ can strengthen the immune system and enhance recovery from infections or injuries.

Muscle function, physical performance, and recovery: Research has shown that NAD+ supplementation can improve endurance, increase muscle strength and function, boost energy, improve reaction times, and speed recovery in athletes.

Addiction recovery: NAD+ therapy has shown promise in assisting addiction recovery. It may help flush remaining drugs from the system, mitigate withdrawal effects, and reduce cravings for alcohol and drugs.

Pain management: NAD+ has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to pain reduction. It offers a non-addictive approach to pain management, making it a potential alternative to opioids.

NAD+ is essential for proper thyroid function, as it synthesizes and metabolizes thyroid hormones. In Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones is impaired, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive issues. By increasing NAD+ levels, it may be possible to optimize thyroid hormone levels, support thyroid function, and alleviate some of these symptoms.

While direct studies on NAD+ supplementation in Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism are limited, research in related fields suggests potential benefits. A study published in 2020 found that NAD+ precursors could improve metabolic function and reduce inflammation in various conditions, including autoimmune disorders.

Another study demonstrated that NAD+ supplementation could enhance the function of regulatory T cells, which play a crucial role in maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmune reactions. This finding suggests that NAD+ supplementation could potentially help regulate the immune response in Hashimoto’s disease.

NAD+ also has a number of benefits that could improve symptoms for patients with Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism.

Reducing inflammation

One of the common aspects of Hashimoto’s disease is chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. NAD+ has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce thyroid inflammation in patients with Hashimoto’s disease. By modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation, NAD+ may help slow the progression of the disease and improve your overall thyroid function.

Enhancing energy

Fatigue is a common symptom in both Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism. NAD+ plays a crucial role in cellular energy production through its involvement in mitochondrial function. Research suggests that increasing NAD+ levels may improve energy levels and reduce fatigue in people with an underactive thyroid.

Supporting DNA repair

Oxidative stress and DNA damage are associated with the development and progression of autoimmune thyroid disorders. NAD+ is essential for DNA repair processes, and increasing its levels may help protect thyroid cells from damage and support their proper function.

Regulating immune function

NAD+ has been shown to play a role in regulating immune responses. In autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease, modulating the immune system could help reduce the autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland.

NAD+ and thyroid health in the future

While the potential benefits of NAD+ for Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism are promising, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects on thyroid function and autoimmune thyroid disorders.

Future clinical trials, specifically focusing on NAD+ supplementation in patients with Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism, are necessary to strengthen our knowledge of its efficacy and optimal dosing. Additionally, research into the long-term effects of NAD+ supplementation on thyroid function, thyroid hormone levels, and autoimmune disease will help clarify its role in thyroid health management.

NAD+ is a critical component in energy metabolism. As we age or experience metabolic stress, NAD+ levels tend to decline, which can lead to impaired metabolic function and contribute to weight gain.

Therapeutic supplementation with NAD+ precursors can help with weight loss in several ways.

Supporting energy in cells

One of the primary ways NAD+ supports weight loss is by enhancing mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the power plants of our cells, responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP. Higher NAD+ levels can improve mitochondrial efficiency, leading to increased energy expenditure and oxidation of fat.

Activating sirtuins

NAD+ is a crucial cofactor for sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate metabolism, stress responses, and aging. One protein, SIRT1, has been shown to play a significant role in fat metabolism and energy homeostasis. Activation of SIRT1 through increased NAD+ levels can promote:

• Fat mobilization from adipose (fat) tissue
• Enhanced fatty acid oxidation in muscles and the liver
• Improved insulin sensitivity

NAD+ and fat tissue

NAD+ plays a crucial role in adipose tissue function, which is essential for weight management:

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation: BAT is a specialized type of fat tissue that burns energy to produce heat. NAD+ has been shown to enhance BAT function and promote the “browning” of white adipose tissue, leading to increased energy expenditure.

White adipose tissue (WAT) regulation: NAD+ and SIRT1 also regulate WAT function, influencing fat storage and mobilization. According to research, higher NAD+ levels can promote healthier adipose tissue expansion and improve insulin sensitivity in fat cells.

Nicotinamide riboside (NR)

Nicotinamide riboside (NR), a NAD+ precursor, has shown promising results in animal studies. Research indicates that NR supplementation can:

• Enhance oxidative metabolism
• Protect against high-fat diet-induced obesity
• Improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity

One study demonstrated that NR supplementation increased NAD+ levels, activated SIRT1 and SIRT3, and enhanced oxidative metabolism, ultimately protecting against metabolic abnormalities and weight gain caused by a high-fat diet.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)

NMN, another NAD+ precursor, has also shown potential benefits for weight management:

• Improved exercise capacity
• Enhanced energy expenditure
• Reduced weight gain associated with aging

A clinical trial involving overweight or obese women found that NMN supplementation improved insulin sensitivity and muscle insulin signaling. While the study did not show significant changes in body weight over the 10 weeks, the improvements in metabolic parameters suggest potential long-term benefits for weight management.

NAD+ and metabolic flexibility

Metabolic flexibility refers to the body’s ability to switch between different fuel sources (carbohydrates and fats) based on availability and demand. NAD+ plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic flexibility in several ways:

• Enhancing fat oxidation during fasting or exercise
• Improving glucose utilization after meals
• Supporting the transition between fed and fasting states

Improved metabolic flexibility can contribute to more efficient weight management and reduced risk of metabolic disorders.

Human studies

While much of the research on NAD+ and weight loss has been conducted in animal models, emerging clinical studies are providing insights into its effects in humans:

A study comparing lean and obese subjects found that obese individuals had lower expression of SIRT1, SIRT3, SIRT7, and NAMPT (an enzyme involved in NAD+ biosynthesis) in subcutaneous fat tissue.

The same study observed that weight loss was associated with increased NAD+/SIRT1 expression, suggesting a potential role for NAD+ in supporting weight loss efforts.

There are several ways to supplement with NAD+, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Intravenous (IV) infusions

NAD+ IV infusion therapy is a direct and efficient method of supplementation. It involves administering NAD+ directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous drip. This method bypasses the digestive system, ensuring 100% bioavailability and allowing for higher doses to be delivered. IV infusions typically last several hours and are often administered in clinical settings. They are considered the most effective way to rapidly increase NAD+ levels in the body, making them popular for addressing acute conditions or as part of intensive treatment protocols.

Intramuscular (IM) injections

Intramuscular injections offer an alternative to IV infusions for NAD+ supplementation. In this method, NAD+ is injected directly into muscle tissue, bypassing the digestive system. While not as immediate as IV infusions, IM injections still provide better bioavailability than oral supplements. They can be a good option for those with difficulty tolerating or accessing IV administration. IM injections are generally quicker to administer than IV infusions and can be done in a clinical setting or potentially at home with proper guidance.

Nasal sprays

NAD+ nasal sprays are a newer and less common method of supplementation. This approach involves spraying an NAD+ solution into the nasal cavity, which can be absorbed through the nasal mucosa. While not as well-studied as other methods, nasal sprays offer a non-invasive alternative that may provide better absorption than oral supplements. However, the dosage and effectiveness of NAD+ nasal sprays can be less consistent compared to IV or IM administration.

Oral supplements

Oral NAD+ supplements are the most accessible and convenient form of supplementation. These typically come as capsules or tablets containing NAD+ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). While oral supplements are easy to use, they have lower bioavailability compared to other methods due to degradation in the digestive system. The effectiveness of oral NAD+ supplements can vary widely, and higher doses may be needed to increase NAD+ levels significantly. Despite these limitations, oral supplements remain a popular choice for long-term maintenance supplementation due to their ease of use and lower cost compared to other methods.

Compounded GLP-1 and NAD+ injections for weight loss

Combining GLP-1 receptor agonists with NAD+ in compounded weight loss treatments represents an innovative approach to addressing obesity and metabolic health. Research shows that this combination can leverage the unique benefits of both components to enhance weight loss outcomes and overall well-being.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Saxenda, Zepbound), are very effective in treating obesity by mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone. These drugs work by slowing gastric emptying, reducing appetite, and increasing feelings of fullness, leading to decreased food intake and substantial weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that GLP-1 agonists can result in an average weight loss of 8-10% of body weight over a year.

NAD+, on the other hand, is a crucial coenzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism and repair processes. Incorporating NAD+ into weight loss treatments aims to boost metabolism, increase energy levels, and improve overall cellular health.

Some studies suggest that NAD+ supplementation enhances the body’s ability to burn fat and regulate metabolism, potentially complementing the effects of GLP-1 agonists. The synergistic effects of combining GLP-1 agonists with NAD+ into a compounded injection could offer several advantages:

• Enhanced weight loss: While GLP-1 agonists primarily target appetite reduction, NAD+ may help optimize metabolism, potentially leading to more significant weight loss results.
• Improved metabolic health: Both components have been associated with better blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, which are crucial for long-term metabolic health.
• Cellular rejuvenation: NAD+ plays a vital role in cellular repair and energy production, which may help mitigate some cellular stress associated with rapid weight loss.
• Potential anti-aging effects: NAD+ has garnered attention for its possible anti-aging properties, which could provide additional benefits beyond weight loss.

As with any medical treatment, compounded GLP-1 and NAD+ therapies should be supervised by healthcare professionals who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health profile and needs.

NAD+ is generally considered safe when taken as a supplement in appropriate doses. However, there are potential risks and side effects to consider.

Mild side effects of NAD+ supplementation can cause minor symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Indigestion

It’s quite rare, but individuals may experience allergic responses to NAD+ or its precursors.

There is also a concern about getting too much NAD+. High doses of NAD+ precursors may disrupt cellular balance and potentially interfere with natural metabolic processes.

Finally, NAD+ supplements may interact with medications for diabetes, heart disease, or immune conditions. It’s always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

While the potential benefits of NAD+ for health and weight loss are promising, several factors should be considered:

• Long-term studies: Most human trials investigating NAD+ precursors have been relatively short-term. More extended studies are needed to assess the sustained effects on weight loss and metabolic health.
• Optimal dosing: Further research is required to determine the most effective dosages of NAD+ precursors for weight loss in different populations.
• Combination with lifestyle interventions: NAD+ supplementation is likely most effective when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and sufficient sleep.
• Individual variability: The response to NAD+ boosting interventions may vary among individuals due to genetic factors, age, and baseline metabolic health.

NAD+ is a cornerstone of cellular health, influencing everything from energy production to DNA repair and immune function. While NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, dietary strategies and supplementation with precursors like NR and NMN offer promising ways to restore this vital molecule. With ongoing research into NAD+ therapies, the potential for improving healthspan and addressing chronic conditions is vast.

NAD+ also plays a crucial role in thyroid and metabolic health and shows promise as a potential aid in weight loss efforts. By enhancing mitochondrial function, activating sirtuins, improving adipose tissue function, and supporting metabolic flexibility, NAD+ and its precursors may offer a novel approach to help relieve hypothyroidism symptoms and aid in weight management.

As science continues to unlock the secrets of NAD+, this coenzyme may hold the key to a healthier, longer life. However, it’s essential to approach NAD+ supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare provider to balance its benefits and risks effectively.

Incorporating NAD+ into your wellness journey could be a game-changer for supporting your thyroid and overall health, boosting energy, and managing weight more effectively. As research continues to unlock its potential, it’s clear that NAD+ is vital in optimizing metabolic and cellular function—key factors in feeling your best.

At Paloma Health, we specialize in providing personalized care for thyroid health, helping you navigate solutions like NAD+ supplementation tailored to your unique needs. Becoming a Paloma Health member gives you access to expert healthcare providers, comprehensive and convenient thyroid blood tests with Paloma’s home test kit, and actionable insights to transform your health journey. Join today and take a proactive step towards thriving with the support and guidance you deserve.

Key points

• NAD+ is a vital coenzyme found in every cell, essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. It powers metabolism by facilitating ATP production, the cell’s energy currency.
• NAD+ supports energy metabolism, repairs DNA, aids in longevity, and helps cells better respond to stress, making it crucial for combating aging-related damage.
• NAD+ enhances energy levels, cognitive function, metabolic health, and immune response while reducing inflammation and promoting heart health. It may also aid in weight management, addiction recovery, and pain reduction.
• NAD+ can support thyroid function by reducing inflammation, enhancing energy production, and regulating immune responses, potentially alleviating symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism.
• By improving mitochondrial function and activating and supporting metabolic flexibility, NAD+ can enhance fat burning, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health, aiding weight loss efforts.
• NAD+ is available via oral supplements, IV infusions, injections, and other methods. While generally safe, mild side effects like nausea and headaches can occur, and excessive doses may disrupt metabolic balance. Consult a healthcare provider to determine how best to incorporate NAD+ into your health plan.

‍