Anti-ageing biohacking is the latest health trend that’s fast gaining popularity among America’s wellness fraternity. The promise to reverse age and defy related conditions indeed looks magical and pathbreaking. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) supplements, a coenzyme form of niacin (Vitamin B3) have shown promise with its wonderful properties in DNA repair, and slowing down the ageing process.
No wonder, Hollywood’s elite fraternity is embracing this trend to look younger, vivacious, and fitter and also enhance their overall well-being.
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a compound that is found naturally in the body. It regulates body’s metabolic and inflammatory responses. As we age, the body’s concentration of this important compound in skin, blood, liver, muscle, and brain is believed to decrease, as per studies. Restoring its level, can have a remarkable effect in reversing ageing process. There are also options to externally take this compound via NAD boosters, drips, powders, and supplements.
Potential health benefits of NAD supplements
While early research has demonstrated the many health benefits of NAD supplementation, these are still being tested clinically. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has technically banned many of these supplements from being sold.
Prevents premature ageing
According to Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, animal studies have found that NAD can help extend a number of years subjects were in good health and reduce signs of premature aging. In the ongoing human clinical trials, researchers have noted that supplementation of NAD precursors like NMN and NR may improve signs of aging.
Improves heart health
NAD supplementation also holds the secret to a healthy heart as per research studies. According to Nature Medicine, the supplements can aid in improving cardiovascular health and other signs of ageing. A study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, the supplements also boost Mitochondrial function in people with heart failure.
Reduces the risk of cognitive conditions
With age, risks of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s increase. A high dose of NAD precursor (1500 milligrams of NR twice a day) can effectively help cut the chances by reducing nerve cell inflammation which can contribute to age-related cognitive issues such as Parkinson’s disease, as per journal Nutrients.
Are there any side effects of NAD supplements?
While there aren’t enough clinical trial on humans, no serious side effects of NAD supplementation have been found so far and it is assumed that like many forms of vitamin B3 (NAD precursors), they will be well-tolerated too.
However, some mild short-term side effects of NAD supplements that is usually seen with the consumption of high doses of niacin may include skin flushing, headache, dizziness, and liver toxicity.
“NAD boosters can have side effects, including nausea, fatigue, headache, digestive issues, insomnia, anxiety and allergic reactions. In animal studies it was found that NAD+ may also increase cancer cell growth. Many NAD+ boosters have not been approved by the FDA for therapeutic use and are still undergoing clinical trials. As a result, the FDA has restricted the sale of some of these supplements due to concerns about their safety and efficacy,” says Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.
“Patients interested in NAD+ boosters should also understand the uncertain risks associated with them. Ongoing research and regulatory oversight will be crucial in determining the appropriate clinical use of NAD+ boosters,” says Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
