NAD+ is not just something out of a science lab in the cellular and longevity world. It is evident, a vital compound in your body.
Definition of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
NAD+ is a coenzyme naturally present in human bodies. It is vital for many biological processes. Insufficient levels of NAD+ impact your body's functioning. Your cells may struggle to produce ATP without enough NAD+.
As it’s so crucial, NAD+ got nicknames like “anti-aging molecule” and “master regulator of metabolism”. Being that powerful, NAD+ levels decline with age, making you feel the signs of aging.
Role in Cellular Metabolism & Energy Production
NAD+ is all about energy production. It plays a key role in cellular metabolism. NAD+ is necessary for oxidative phosphorylation. It is a mitochondrial function that creates ATP, the main energy molecule in the body.
Healthy NAD+ levels in your body produce ATP effectively. This provides you with more energy for moving, thinking, and repairing. Declining NAD+ causes mitochondrial dysfunction, a NAD+ deficiency.
Impact on DNA Repair & Aging
NAD+ supports cellular health and longevity. It activates sirtuin proteins. Sirtuins do cellular repair, fix damaged DNA, regulate inflammation, and promote cellular resilience.
The problem with sirtuins is that they can’t function without NAD+. The decline in NAD+ levels causes:
- DNA repair slowdown
- Rise in inflammation
- Faster aging of cells
There is an important link between NAD+ and aging, as proper NAD+ levels support healthier, longer-living cells.
It can be said that NAD+ helps:
- Fuel your energy
- Support metabolism
- Repair DNA
- Age more gracefully