In the wellness world, NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) injections are gaining fame – touted by health experts, biohackers, and yes, celebrities – as one of the more promising therapies for boosting energy, slowing aging, and improving overall vitality. Below, we dig into:

• What NAD+ is
• What science says about it
• Potential benefits of NAD injections
• Which high‐profile people are using it

What is Aging?

Before we start, we need to identify what aging is (or may be), so we can see how NAD works in the anti-aging realm. According to the NIH, “In general terms, aging is considered the organism-wide loss of homeostasis, innate repair, and regenerative capacity, resulting in an accumulation of damage and the development of multiple copathologies.” Essentially, aging is not a linear function, it’s a complex interconnection of molecules, and when some of them start losing their energy, others connected to them may either have to provide some of that energy, thereby losing their effectiveness in bearing the load – like children playing a game of tug-of-war. If one falls down, they may be able to be helped up. But if one falls into another child and knocks them down, the whole side may potentially come tumbling down – but think of that at the cellular level.

What Is NAD+?

NAD+ is a coenzyme present in every cell, one in which your body already makes naturally. It plays a central role in many vital biochemical processes, including:

• Energy production (helping convert food into ATP)
• DNA repair and integrity
• Supporting mitochondrial function
• Cellular signaling, including facilitating the activity of enzymes involved in aging, like sirtuins. (PMC)

A wealth of evidence now demonstrates that a decline in cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a feature of aging and may play a role in the process. In other words, as we age, levels of NAD+ naturally decline – which is believed to contribute to aging, decreased energy, slower recovery, cognitive fog, and more.

What is a coenzyme? A coenzyme is a “helper” molecule that binds to an enzymes to help carry out a chemical reaction. In this case, NAD helps the mitochondria.

What Science Says about NAD

According to an article on PubMed Central titled The Role of NAD+ in Regenerative Medicine, restoration of NAD+ in vivo has been investigated extensively and has demonstrated whole-body benefits. This has been reviewed in detail recently. In mice, NAD+ levels have been found to decrease twofold by mid-age, correlating with the onset of multiple age-related issues.  Successful restoration of NAD+ to youthful levels resulted in cardiovascular improvements and the reversal of multiple metabolic conditions, including: improved mitochondrial function, improved markers of cardiovascular health, better muscle stem cell function, and possible retina & vision improvements.

While many promising preclinical (animal / cell) studies show benefits for NAD+ supplementation or restoration, human clinical trials are fewer, with mixed results and smaller sample sizes so far. More robust, long-term data is needed.

Potential Benefits of NAD+ Injections

Injecting NAD+ (rather than taking it orally) can allow for much more of the molecule to be bioavailable, enabling faster effects, while lasting longer in the body. Regardless of how it’s taken, here are some of the benefits people report and that early research supports:

Celebrity Use of NAD

In addition to making rounds on social media platforms about the benefits of NAD+ usage, part of the buzz around it recently comes from celebrities who openly use or talk about it. Here are a few names and quotes about NAD+:

• Hailey Bieber: Perhaps one of the most often referenced, she said in an episode of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians in 2022”: “I’m going to NAD for the rest of my life, and I’m never going to age.” (Forbes)
• Jennifer Aniston: In a feature in the Wall Street Journal, the former “Friends” and current Apple TV show “The Morning Show” star has described her NAD+ IV therapy as “the future.”
• Joe Rogan: Frequently mentioned as using NAD+ infusions or drips for energy and overall wellness. In a recent interview with Dr. David Sinclair, this was mentioned on the show: “It’s a really important molecule. But, as we get older, we lose NAD. So, by the time you’re fifty… you have about half the levels you did when you were twenty.”

Although these high-profile, testimonial-style endorsements tend to emphasize increased energy, sharper mind, more youthful feeling, etc., you should still do your own research before jumping on board. Our providers at Lowcountry Male can help explain more on how NAD can be utilized, and what the proper dosage should be, according to your own individual plan of care. Knowing your scores & needs is vital for each person considering it.

Final Thoughts

NAD+ may not be a fountain of youth, but it is a natural molecule made in your body that can help keep certain enzymatic functions working the way they should. Supplementing with it – in the form of injections, IV or even orally – offer a compelling blend of science and hype. The science around it supports many of the potential benefits, particularly around energy, aging, and cellular function. Stories and endorsements from public figures and celebrities only amplify interest. If you’re considering using it, it helps to consult with a provider, review what your goals are, and monitor results (energy levels, cognitive clarity, etc.).

Our concierge teams at our clinics would be happy to assist you in learning more about this anti-aging therapy, as well as others (including rapamycin, BPC-157 and other peptide treatments.) We look forward to helping assist in your health journey.