NAD+

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a molecule that exists in every cell in the body. This coenzyme is needed for cell viability and function as well as helping cells manage energy. NAD+ can assist with brain function, DNA repair, and repairing signals between molecules for cellular communication.

While NAD+ is naturally occurring in the body, we also obtain it by the foods we eat, specifically those rich in Vitamin B3 and tryptophan. NAD+ deficiency was discovered in the early 1900’s by a surgeon studying a condition known as Pellagra. He determined that it was only present in population groups that did not have access to foods rich in vitamin B3 and tryptophan.

NAD+ levels in the body naturally start to decline as we age. At around 50, NAD+ levels are around half that in young adults and children. While a decline in NAD+ levels with age is a natural occurrence, certain factors can cause an NAD+ deficiency.