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Sovereign Nations. Different Laws. One Complicated Payments System. On Indigenous Peoples' Day, it's time to examine why tribal gaming, ...
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has become a prominent topic in wellness circles, with social media influencers and celebrities discussing its potential benefits. The compound, naturally found in all human cells, plays a role in energy production within the mitochondria. As NAD levels decline with age, some theorize that supplementation could restore these levels and support cellular function.
The visibility of NAD has increased through celebrity endorsements and social media presence, though scientific research on its efficacy in humans remains limited.
According to Dr. Eric Verdin of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in Novato, NAD functions similarly to energy shuttles within cells, transferring energy between different cellular components. Animal studies have shown promising results, with high doses of NAD precursors—NR (nicotinamide riboside) and NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)—appearing to alleviate certain age-related conditions in mice, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Dr. Michael Fredericson, a sports medicine specialist and co-director of the Longevity Center at Stanford, notes that animal studies suggest potential benefits for DNA repair, neurodegeneration, organ health, insulin sensitivity, and metabolism. However, he emphasizes that large controlled human studies have not yet been completed.
The doses used in successful animal studies were considerably higher than those typically available in human supplements. Additionally, treatments that prove effective in animal models do not always translate to successful human therapies.
NAD supplements are typically sold in oral form at doses between 125 mg and 250 mg daily. The body cannot absorb pure NAD directly, which is why supplements contain precursor compounds that provide the building blocks for NAD production.
Some wellness centers offer NAD IV infusions, though medical experts express concerns about this delivery method. According to Fredericson, IV infusions can trigger significant immune responses, including chest pain, diarrhea, and nausea, because the body may treat the large amount of NAD in the bloodstream as a foreign substance.
Verdin recommends that consumers seeking supplements look for companies with independent certification of analysis to verify product quality and contents.
Medical experts identify specific populations who should avoid NAD supplementation. Fredericson advises against use by individuals with cancer history, as some animal studies suggest very high doses might enhance tumor growth, even though commercial supplement doses are much lower than those used in research.
NAD supplementation may also increase homocysteine levels in the blood, which can indicate metabolic dysfunction. Verdin cited this as his reason for discontinuing personal use.
Some middle-aged and older patients report feeling they have more energy after taking NAD supplements, though medical professionals acknowledge this could represent a placebo effect. Fredericson describes his approach as cautious, prescribing it selectively for patients experiencing decreased energy or slower healing.
Verdin emphasizes that proven interventions for healthy aging include proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and stress management. He suggests that individuals considering supplementation should first ensure adequate levels of well-studied nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B-12, and omega-3 fatty acids through testing.
The scientific community generally agrees that more research is needed. As Fredericson observes, the field awaits larger human trials that could either establish NAD supplementation as a significant intervention or diminish interest in its use.
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