What is NAD+?

cellular health and DNA REPAIR

NAD+ helps with cellular health by activating PARPs for DNA Repair. PARPs (Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases) are enzymes that detect and repair DNA damage. When cells experience DNA breaks (from aging, radiation, or toxins), PARPs use NAD+ to signal repair mechanisms. Low NAD+ levels can lead to inefficient DNA repair, increasing mutation risks and accelerating aging.

NAD+ also maintains Stem Cell functions for regeneration. Stem cells rely on NAD+ for self-renewal and tissue repair, which means declining NAD+ levels impair stem cell function, leading to slower healing and aging-related degeneration.

improves insulin sensitivity

Boosting Mitochondrial Efficiency: NAD+ plays a central role in mitochondrial energy production. More efficient mitochondria mean better fatty acid oxidation and less lipid accumulation in tissues like the liver and muscle, which otherwise contribute to insulin resistance.

AMPK Activation: NAD+ helps activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an energy-sensing enzyme that promotes glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation while reducing fat storage—key mechanisms for maintaining insulin sensitivity.

improves metabolism

NAD+ is essential for ATP synthesis, the body’s main energy source. It facilitates key metabolic reactions:

• Glycolysis (breaking down glucose for energy)
• Krebs Cycle (TCA Cycle) (extracting energy from nutrients)
• xidative Phosphorylation (producing ATP in mitochondria)
• Higher NAD+ levels ensure efficient energy production, reducing metabolic sluggishness and fatigue.

NAD+ helps regulate the circadian clock, which controls metabolism and energy balance. Proper circadian function ensures:

• Efficient digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Optimal fat and sugar metabolism.
• Better sleep, which directly impacts metabolic health.

improves cognitive function

Neurons experience DNA damage over time, contributing to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. NAD+ activates PARPs(Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases) and SIRT6, which are crucial for DNA repair, ensuring brain cells stay functional and resilient.

NAD+ helps activate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), promoting better blood flow to the brain. Improved circulation ensures neurons receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, which enhances cognitive function and protects against stroke-related damage.

stress resistance

Regulating the HPA Axis (Stress Response System): The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis controls the body’s response to stress. High stress can cause dysregulation, leading to chronic cortisol elevation, fatigue, and burnout. NAD+ helps restore balance by reducing excessive HPA axis activation, keeping stress hormone levels in check.

Reducing Oxidative Stress & Inflammation: Chronic stress increases oxidative stress and inflammation, damaging cells and contributing to fatigue, anxiety, and brain fog. NAD+ supports SIRT2 and SIRT3, which neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce neuroinflammation, promoting a calmer nervous system.

activating Sirtuins

NAD+ activates sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate cellular health, by serving as a necessary cofactor for their enzymatic activity. Sirtuins, particularly SIRT1–SIRT7, function as NAD+-dependent deacetylases, meaning they remove acetyl groups from target proteins, which influences gene expression, DNA repair, metabolism, and stress resistance. Since sirtuins rely on NAD+, their activity is directly linked to cellular energy status—when NAD+ levels are high (such as during fasting or exercise), sirtuins are more active, promoting beneficial processes like mitochondrial function, reduced inflammation, and longevity-associated pathways.