NAD+ Supplements: Benefits and Risks Explained

Recently, NAD+ supplements have gained attention for their potential benefits related to energy, anti-aging, and general health. But what are these supplements, and do they really deliver on their promises?

Dr. Jacob Hill, a specialist in naturopathic medicine, provides insights into what NAD+ supplements are, the scientific research surrounding them, and important considerations to keep in mind before using them.

What Are NAD Supplements and How Do They Function?

NAD supplements contain ingredients that your body converts into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a vital molecule present in every cell responsible for converting food into energy.

According to Dr. Hill, “NAD plays a key role in a variety of bodily processes, with its primary function being energy production.”

However, NAD is challenging for the body to absorb directly from supplements. Therefore, most NAD products are made with precursors—substances your body can convert into NAD.

Common NAD precursors include various forms of niacin, such as nicotinamide, as well as compounds like nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide.

Nicotinic acid (niacin) is less frequently found in NAD supplements due to its higher potential for side effects and toxicity in large doses.

Some supplements combine NAD precursors with additional nutrients or herbs, affecting both their efficacy and potential side effects, which can vary based on the specific NAD precursors and extra ingredients used.

You may find these products labeled as NAD supplements, NAD+ supplements, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide supplements. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s important to note that NAD+ refers to a specific form of the molecule within the body.

“NAD+ acts as an electron acceptor during the breakdown of food, transporting electrons to various cellular locations, including mitochondria, which serve as the cell’s energy factories,” explains Dr. Hill. “This is where cells generate the bulk of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the body.”

Given NAD’s critical role in energy-related functions, researchers are investigating whether elevating NAD levels could benefit conditions related to energy deficiency or cellular stress.

Potential Benefits of NAD+ Supplements

Proponents of NAD+ supplements claim they may enhance energy levels and reduce signs of aging. This interest arises from the fact that NAD levels naturally decline with age, leading to decreased cellular efficiency in energy production and damage repair.

“This is where much of the current enthusiasm surrounding these supplements stems from—the potential anti-aging and longevity benefits,” says Dr. Hill. “However, research in this field is still in its infancy, and the long-term effects and risks remain uncertain until more data is available.”

Research is also exploring other potential health benefits of NAD supplements, though Dr. Hill emphasizes that these investigations are ongoing, and the evidence is currently limited or inconclusive.

Some areas of interest include:

• Cardiovascular Health: Given that heart cells require significant energy, researchers are examining whether boosting NAD levels could enhance cellular function within the cardiovascular system.
• Neurological Conditions: NAD’s involvement in cellular repair has prompted interest in its potential effects on conditions like Parkinson’s disease, although research is still in early stages.
• Metabolic Health: Investigations into the relationship between NAD and conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity are ongoing, as NAD plays a role in metabolic processes.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While NAD supplements are generally regarded as safe for most individuals, side effects may occur, particularly at high doses. The type of NAD precursor used can also influence the likelihood of experiencing side effects.

Common side effects associated with NAD supplements include:

• Nausea or gastric discomfort
• Headaches
• Lightheadedness
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps
• Skin irritation

Supplements containing niacin (nicotinic acid) can lead to flushing, characterized by a warm sensation in the skin and may also result in liver toxicity at elevated doses.

Importantly, these side effects tend to be linked primarily to concentrated forms of NAD precursors found in supplements.

“Some of these NAD precursors are naturally present in food,” notes Dr. Hill. “Negative effects usually occur only when consumed at high concentrations, such as those found in capsules.”

Who Should Be Cautious with NAD Supplements?

Different NAD precursors can produce various effects that may not be suitable for everyone. Given that NAD supports energy production, some individuals could experience unexpected consequences.

“In particular, there are concerns regarding cancer,” Dr. Hill mentions. “Cancer cells rely heavily on energy for growth. Therefore, there is apprehension that enhancing energy production using NAD supplements may inadvertently facilitate cancer cell proliferation. While this is not definitively proven, it is a significant area of concern.”

It is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before using NAD supplements if you:

• Have a history of cancer or currently have cancer
• Have severe liver disease
• Are pregnant or nursing
• Plan to use high doses for an extended period

“We currently lack long-term safety studies on most NAD supplements,” Dr. Hill cautions. “Therefore, if you are considering long-term use, it’s prudent to consult with your healthcare provider first.”

What to Consider When Choosing a NAD Supplement

If you’re contemplating NAD supplements, Dr. Hill recommends paying careful attention to how the products are formulated and labeled:

• Look for third-party testing. Third-party testing indicates that a supplement company has sent their product to an independent lab to verify quality, safety, and ingredient accuracy. Since supplements aren’t regulated like medications, third-party verification adds an extra layer of safety.
• Avoid proprietary blends. A proprietary blend lists ingredients without revealing the specific amounts of each. “This is problematic,” warns Dr. Hill. “It’s essential to know precisely what you’re ingesting.”
• Evaluate the brand’s reputation. “Established companies typically have a range of products and solid manufacturing practices,” notes Dr. Hill. “While a company with a single product isn’t inherently negative, ensure they have quality controls in place.”
• Be cautious of pricing anomalies. Dr. Hill also advises against unusually low or excessively high prices, as well as products that claim to offer rapid results or cures.

Dietary and Lifestyle Alternatives to NAD Supplements

If you’re looking to support your body’s NAD levels, Dr. Hill suggests prioritizing food and exercise over supplements.

“You can enhance your NAD levels through a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices,” he explains. “This approach is generally safer and more natural than resorting to supplements.”

Foods rich in NAD precursors provide the essential components for your body to produce NAD. Some examples include:

• Poultry
• Fish
• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Whole grains
• Nuts

Staying active through regular exercise also stimulates your cells to increase energy production.

“In my work with individuals aiming to boost energy while promoting cellular health and healthy aging, I prioritize lifestyle medicine strategies,” Dr. Hill adds.

Conclusion

Ultimately, consulting a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, including NAD+, is the safest course of action.

“Collaborating with a healthcare provider ensures you select the right product, formulation, and dosage tailored to your needs,” emphasizes Dr. Hill. “They can also assist you in identifying alternative methods to achieve your health objectives without needing supplements.”