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Ageing is an inevitable process that affects every living organism on this planet. With advances in science and medicine, we now have a better understanding of the biological mechanisms that contribute to ageing.

One such mechanism is the decline of NAD levels in the body, which is known to accelerate the ageing process. Fortunately, recent studies have shown that NAD supplements may hold the key to slowing down the ageing process and improving overall health. In this article, we'll explore the science behind NAD supplements and their role in anti-ageing.

We'll take a closer look at what NAD is, how it works, and the potential benefits of supplementing with NAD. So, whether you're interested in maintaining your youthful vigour or just curious about the latest developments in anti-ageing research, this article is for you.

 

What is NAD and how does it work in the body?

NAD stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which is a coenzyme found in all living cells. NAD plays a crucial role in many cellular processes, including energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cell signalling. NAD is also involved in regulating the activity of certain enzymes, including sirtuins, which are known to play a role in ageing.

NAD is produced in the body from the amino acid tryptophan, as well as from the vitamin niacin. NAD can also be synthesized from other precursors, including nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which are both available as supplements.

NAD is involved in many physiological processes, including the conversion of food into energy, the maintenance of healthy DNA, and the regulation of circadian rhythm. As we age, however, our bodies produce less NAD, which can contribute to the ageing process.

 

The Role of NAD in Ageing

There is growing evidence to suggest that the decline of NAD levels in the body is a major contributor to the ageing process. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at producing NAD, which can lead to a range of age-related health issues, including cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders.

One of the key mechanisms by which NAD may contribute to ageing is through the regulation of sirtuins. Sirtuins are a class of enzymes that play a crucial role in regulating cellular metabolism and DNA repair. Studies have shown that sirtuins are activated by NAD and that by increasing NAD levels, we may be able to enhance the activity of sirtuins and slow down the ageing process.

 

NAD supplements and their benefits for anti-ageing

NAD supplements have gained popularity in recent years as a potential way to slow down the ageing process and improve overall health. There are several different types of NAD supplements available, including NR, NMN, and NAD+. These supplements are believed to work by increasing NAD levels in the body, which can help to activate sirtuins and other enzymes that are involved in the ageing process.

One of the most promising benefits of NAD supplements is their ability to improve mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells, responsible for producing energy that our bodies need to function. As we age, however, our mitochondria become less efficient, which can contribute to a range of age-related health issues. Studies have shown that NAD supplements may be able to improve mitochondrial function and help to slow down the ageing process.

In addition to improving mitochondrial function, NAD supplements may also have other anti-ageing benefits, including improving cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and enhancing DNA repair.

 

Scientific studies on NAD supplements and anti-ageing

The huge promise and potential of NAD supplementation is brought about by the extensive research done on it.

One study published in the journal Cell Metabolism found that NMN supplementation improved insulin sensitivity, reduced weight gain, and increased energy metabolism in mice.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications found that NAD+ supplementation improved muscle function in mice. The study also found that NAD+ supplementation improved the function of stem cells in the body, which play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration.

 

Types of NAD supplements and their differences

There are several different types of NAD supplements available, each with its unique properties. The most common types of NAD supplements include NR, NMN, and NAD+. NR and NMN are precursors to NAD, which means that they are converted into NAD in the body. NAD+, on the other hand, is a more direct form of NAD that is readily available for use by the body.

NMN is believed to be the most effective at increasing NAD levels in the body as it’s been recently discovered by scientists to have a direct transporter and a direct precursor, whereas NR has to first be converted to NMN before conversion to NAD+, which means it is less efficient. NAD+ may be the most direct form in and of itself, but it has a notorious poor oral availability and stability, plus the IV infusions give its fair share of undesirable reactions and has to be done very slowly – of which not many have the luxury of time, even if they could afford such treatments.

 

Dosage and safety considerations for NAD supplements

While NAD supplements are generally considered safe, it's important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines and to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. The recommended dosage of NAD supplements can vary depending on the type of supplement, as well as your age and overall health.

It's also important to note that NAD supplements may interact with certain medications, including diabetes medications and blood thinners. If you're taking any medications, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

 

Combining NAD supplements with other anti-ageing strategies

While NAD supplements may hold promise as a way to slow down the ageing process, they are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to anti-ageing. To maximize the benefits of NAD supplements, it's important to combine them with other anti-ageing strategies, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction.

Other anti-ageing supplements, including resveratrol, quercetin and curcumin, may also work synergistically with NAD supplements to enhance their anti-ageing benefits.

 

NAD supplements and their potential for longevity

While NAD supplements are still a relatively new area of research, there is growing evidence to suggest that they may hold promise for extending lifespan. In animal studies, NAD+ supplementation has been shown to extend lifespan and improve healthspan, which refers to the length of time that an individual can live in good health.

 

Conclusion and Future of NAD Research

NAD supplements hold promise as a way to slow down the ageing process and improve overall health. While much of the research in this area is still in the early stages, the early results are promising. By increasing NAD levels in the body, we may be able to activate sirtuins and other enzymes that play a crucial role in the ageing process.

As more research is conducted in this area, we may learn more about the potential benefits of NAD supplements for anti-ageing and longevity. Visit our Root of Life store to view our comprehensive range of supplements and how they may boost your overall health.