6 Research-Backed Strategies for Preserving NAD+ Levels or Increasing the NAD+/NADH Ratio

1. Strategy 1: focusing on the supplementation of NAD+ precursors. To bolster NAD+ levels, we need specific nutrients; it's worth noting that different precursors follow distinct pathways for NAD+ synthesis. This signifies that NAD+ synthesis isn't a one-path-fits-all scenario. Now, let's delve into some of these precursors: Vitamin B3 niacin, known as NA or nicotinic acid, which is famous for causing a flushing reaction when supplemented; nicotinamide (NAM), similar to niacin but without the flushing effect; and we also have nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and even tryptophan. Now, let's explore studies that have evaluated the impact of these supplemental precursors on obese or aging individuals:

• In an obesity model study, NMN supplementation revealed elevated NAD+ production in the liver and skeletal muscle, leading to increased glucose tolerance, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and some suppression of inflammation.

• Similarly, in another obesity model, NR supplementation spurred increased NAD+ production in the liver, skeletal muscle, brain, and adipose tissue. This rise in NAD+ correlated with improved insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, metabolic flexibility, reduced lipid deposition, and even diminished weight gain.

• Shifting our focus from obesity models, let's consider a study involving aging participants. NMN supplementation resulted in heightened NAD+ production in the liver and skeletal muscle, yielding improved insulin sensitivity and remarkably, inhibition of age-associated weight gain.

• Among these findings, researchers are leaning towards NR and NMN as the two most efficient oral supplement precursors for enhancing NAD+ production within tissues.

2. Strategy 2: we'll explore nutrients that inhibit the CD38 enzyme. CD38 is an enzyme that is highly expressed during inflammatory states and can break down NAD+. This enzyme's role in breaking down NAD+ means that inhibiting CD38 could safeguard NAD+ levels. Let's delve into the nutrients that exhibit CD38 inhibitory properties:

• The first contender is Apigenin, a flavonoid present in vegetables like parsley, celery, and onions, as well as fruits like oranges, and herbs like chamomile, thyme, oregano, and basil. A study uncovered that apigenin effectively inhibits CD38, thus elevating NAD+ levels. Interestingly, the same study noted improved glucose and lipid balance in obese mice. Worth mentioning is the practice of combining apigenin with resveratrol to enhance its bioavailability.

• Our next contender is quercetin, another flavonoid possessing robust antioxidant attributes. Belonging to the polyphenol class of plant compounds, quercetin is naturally found in various foods such as onions, apples, berries, citrus fruits, and leafy vegetables.

While there are other contenders in this category, these two—apigenin and quercetin—stand out prominently. Now, let's transition to strategy number 3.

3. Strategy 3: Next, we have NAD+ IVs and NAD+ transdermal patches. The concept of NAD+ IVs is fairly self-explanatory; however, it's worth noting that these IVs can be quite expensive. NAD+ patches, on the other hand, present a middle ground between oral supplements and IVs, offering a more affordable alternative while still delivering NAD+ benefits.

4. Strategy 4: intermittent fasting. This practice is widely recognized, so we'll swiftly move on to strategy 5.

5. Strategy 5: exercise—a well-known component in maintaining optimal health. You might think some of these strategies are basic habits, and indeed they are. However, scientific studies consistently demonstrate that exercise leads to increased NAD+ levels. Data substantiates these claims, reiterating the importance of evidence in supporting our knowledge. With this in mind, let's proceed to strategy 6.

6. Strategy 6: a range of lifestyle factors beyond intermittent fasting and exercise. These factors may not be as widely acknowledged, yet they contribute significantly to preserving or elevating NAD+ levels within the body. Let's delve into these specific lifestyle adjustments:

- Reducing toxin exposure

- Increasing antioxidant consumption

- Prioritizing sleep

- Monitoring blood glucose levels

- Identifying and eliminating underlying inflammation triggers

- Abstaining from alcohol consumption