NAD, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a molecule that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and a number of other important functions in the body. Unfortunately, NAD levels decline with age, which can have negative effects on health. In this article, we will explore how NAD declines with age and what you can do to improve it.
What is NAD?
NAD is a molecule that is found in all living cells and plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. It acts as a coenzyme, meaning that it works with enzymes to facilitate chemical reactions in the body. NAD is involved in a number of important functions, including:
- Energy metabolism: NAD is essential for the breakdown of glucose and other nutrients to produce energy. It is involved in the production of ATP, which is the primary source of energy for cells.
- DNA repair: NAD plays a key role in DNA repair and the maintenance of DNA integrity.
- Neurotransmitter production: NAD is also involved in the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages between nerve cells in the brain.
- Inflammation: NAD can also help regulate inflammation, which is the body’s response to injury or infection.
How does NAD decline with age?
Unfortunately, NAD levels decline with age, which can have negative effects on health. As we get older, our cells become less efficient at using NAD, which can lead to a number of age-related changes, including:
- Decreased energy metabolism: As NAD levels decline, the cells become less efficient at producing energy, which can lead to fatigue and decreased physical performance.
- Increased inflammation: As NAD levels decline, there is an increase in inflammation, which can contribute to age-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
- Decreased DNA repair: NAD is essential for DNA repair, and as NAD levels decline, the cells become less efficient at repairing DNA damage, which can lead to the development of age-related diseases.
- Cognitive decline: NAD is also involved in the production of neurotransmitters, and as NAD levels decline, there may be a decrease in neurotransmitter production, which can contribute to cognitive decline.
How to improve NAD levels
While we can’t stop the natural decline of NAD with age, there are some things that you can do to improve NAD levels and support overall health:
- Diet: A diet that is rich in nutrients such as B vitamins and antioxidants can help support NAD levels. Foods that are high in NAD include leafy green vegetables, fish, and lean protein.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to increase NAD levels and improve overall health.
- Supplements: There are a number of supplements that are claimed to increase NAD levels, including nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these supplements is not yet fully understood and more research is needed.
- Sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and can help support NAD levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Conclusion
NAD is a molecule that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and a number of other important functions in the body. Unfortunately, NAD levels decline with age, which can have negative effects on health.