The NAD Boom! Should we exhibit curiosity AND caution?
As the health and wellness world grows eager for " miracle molecules” (have we learned nothing from conventional medicine...) it’s essential to keep curiosity grounded in an understanding of both the science and the potential risks of popular tools. NAD+ supplementation holds promise, there is data clearly suggesting that NAD+-Sir2/SIRT1 pathways modulate longevity, which shows a great prospect of NAD AND we also know that it also carries complex effects that are, in some cases, not yet fully demonstrated in humans.NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is essential for:Cellular energy productionDNA repairGene expression(and other stuff..)NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, sparking efforts to "replenish" it through supplementation.
Supplements include NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide), NR (nicotinamide riboside), niacinamide, and even IV NAD+. Each takes a different approach, with claims around absorption and cellular uptake, but our understanding of their cellular impact isn't rounded out. NAD+ is in a constant cycle, broken down and rebuilt within cells through the NAD+ salvage pathway.
This pathway recycles NAD+ from nicotinamide, allowing continuous NAD+ regeneration.In youth, our cells efficiently manage this recycling, but with age, both NAD+ demand and decay increase, while cellular recycling becomes less efficient.NNMT is an enzyme which diverts nicotinamide from recycling back into NAD+, instead methylating it, which accelerates NAD+ depletion. NNMT activity is linked to age, obesity, and metabolic issues, all of which may hinder NAD+ levels further.
Why Exhibit Caution in NAD+ Supplementation?
Methylation Demands:
Boosting NAD+ via precursors can add stress to the body’s methylation pathways, potentially impacting DNA and histone methylation. This is a BIG DEAL.CD38 Concerns: CD38, an enzyme that degrades NAD+, is overexpressed in inflammation and aging.
Excessive NAD+ supplementation may increase CD38 activity, undermining intended benefits.
Cancer Risks: Research suggests that high NAD+ levels might aid cancer cell growth, particularly in tumors with high metabolic demands.
Instead of direct supplementation, we can take sustainable, safer steps by promoting the body's NAD+ salvage pathways, for example -Intermittent fasting and exercise, adequate nutrient intake of Magnesium, riboflavin, and low doses of niacinamide.Dr Nichola Conlon has developed a product Nuchido Time plus (with which I have no affiliation) which focuses on supporting natural salvage pathways within cells rather than attempting to “load” cells with NAD+ precursors.
This system appeals more to me as it takes into account NNMT and promotes cell salvage pathways. Resilience is grounded in the foundations of health. Being aware of and understanding the potential effects of every intervention we try just means a little more digging around for info.
