The Science of Healthy Aging
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) is a vital coenzyme found in every living cell. It’s essential for energy production, metabolic regulation and cellular repair. However, its role extends far beyond basic energy metabolism. DNA repair, oxidative stress reduction and mitochondrial function all rely on NAD+, but your levels of NAD+ decline with age.
This natural decline is likely why there's a growing interest in the scientific community to investigate how NAD⁺ levels and other cellular processes, such as autophagy, can positively influence healthy aging. Autophagy, AKA the body’s process of clearing out damaged cellular components, is deeply dependent on metabolic balance and intracellular signaling, both of which are influenced by NAD⁺ availability. Together, these mechanisms help sustain cognitive clarity, physical resilience and overall physiological function over time.
If you want to age well with energy, cognitive clarity and optimal cellular health, NAD+ needs to be on your radar. In this article, our experts examine the current scientific evidence available for NAD⁺ to support cellular repair as you age.
NAD+: The Energy Currency of the Cell
NAD+ acts as a key electron transporter in mitochondrial respiration, facilitating the conversion of nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy molecule.1 However, since NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, the body struggles to repair cells, decrease oxidative stress and fight the onset of age-related diseases.1,2
Consequences of NAD+ Decline
- Impaired DNA repair and genomic stability
- Reduced metabolic efficiency and mitochondrial function
- Increased inflammation and cellular senescence
- Higher risk of neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders. 1,2
Autophagy: The Body’s Cellular Renewal System
Autophagy is a tightly regulated process by which cells degrade and recycle damaged organelles, misfolded proteins and other cellular debris. This self-eating mechanism is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, especially under stress or during aging. Autophagy supports mitochondrial quality control, reduces inflammation and prevents the accumulation of toxic proteins that can drive neurodegeneration and metabolic dysfunction.3
NAD+ & Autophagy: A Synergistic Relationship
Research has demonstrated that NAD+ is a potent activator of autophagy. NAD+ stimulates sirtuin enzymes, particularly SIRT1, which promotes the autophagic process.3 In pre-clinical models, boosting NAD+ levels has been shown to restore autophagy, enhance mitochondrial health and improve outcomes in models of metabolic and cardiac disease.3
Now that we’ve determined the importance of NAD+ Therapy as you age and how it can support autophagy, what are your options as a consumer?
The Best Ways to Boost NAD+ Levels
IV Drip Delivery
Traditional oral supplementation of NAD+ and its precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR), can be limited by absorption and bioavailability. Intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM) Shot administration bypasses the digestive system, delivering NAD+ directly into the bloodstream for rapid and efficient cellular uptake.4 This approach is particularly valuable for individuals seeking faster and more pronounced increases in NAD+ levels.
The New Kid on the Block: Niagen (NR)
Niagen (NR), a clinically studied form of nicotinamide riboside, is a direct precursor to NAD+. When administered through an IV Drip or IM Shot, NR is rapidly converted into NAD+ within cells, resulting in significant and sustained elevations in NAD+ levels.4
Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that NR IV Drips can raise blood NAD+ concentrations more effectively and with fewer side effects than direct NAD+ IV infusions or oral NR supplementation 4
Niagen (NR) has been shown to provide 20% higher levels of NAD+ at the 3-hour mark compared to baseline with fewer adverse experiences.4
Want even more ways to boost NAD+ naturally? Get our good, better and best list, curated by Registered Nurses.
Additional NAD+ Benefits
Energy & Metabolism
Restoring NAD+ levels enhances mitochondrial function, which can lead to improved energy production, metabolic efficiency and reduced fatigue.1,2,4
Anti-Aging & Cellular Repair
NAD+ supports DNA repair, genomic stability and cellular renewal, all of which are essential for slowing the aging process and preventing age-related decline.1,2,3
Brain Health
Elevated NAD+ has been linked to improved neuronal function, reduced neuroinflammation and a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases.1,2
Muscle Health
By supporting mitochondrial health and autophagy, NAD+ interventions can help improve muscle function, recovery and resistance to age-related muscle loss.3
Urolithin A: An Emerging Complement
Urolithin A, a metabolite derived from dietary polyphenols, has shown promise in stimulating mitophagy (the selective autophagy of mitochondria). While it may complement NAD+-boosting strategies, current evidence suggests that NAD+ and NR IV Drips and IM Shots provide more direct and robust increases in cellular NAD+ and autophagic activity.1,3,4 Urolithin A remains an intriguing adjunct but does not match the efficacy of advanced NAD+ delivery methods for cellular renewal.
Start Your Cellular Restoration & Renewal
NAD⁺ plays a foundational role in maintaining cellular vitality, regulating metabolism and supporting the body’s intrinsic repair systems. Its age-related decline has been closely associated with diminished energy production, impaired cognitive function and increased vulnerability to chronic disease. However, advancements in science now offer targeted solutions to restore NAD⁺ levels and enhance biological resilience with IV Drips and IM Shots.
NAD⁺ Therapy and Niagen (NR) provide efficient, bioavailable options for replenishing this essential molecule and stimulating autophagy to help support metabolic balance, mitochondrial function and protection against the cellular stressors that drive aging.
Ready to try NAD⁺ or Niagen (NR) and experience the benefits for yourself? Book your appointment today!
Medical services are provided by an independently-owned physician practice. Some services may require medical clearance and a prescription. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone. Services, prices and nutrients may vary per location. NAD+ is not available in California. The content on our site, blog posts, educational materials, app, promotional newsletters, and any other written content are not intended to replace an evaluation with a qualified healthcare professional and are not intended as medical advice.
