Our rechargeable batteries at the cellular level could get an assist for those who are over 40.

Nowadays I doubt even scientists and after I read some recent findings about the role of NAD as a supplement that works, I had to check with ChatGPT to validate it.

Copy paste of response from ChatGPT

NAD and Aging

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme found in all living cells that plays a vital role in energy production and cellular function. NAD exists in two forms: NAD⁺ (oxidized) and NADH (reduced). It is essential for several key processes, including:

1. Energy Metabolism: NAD⁺ is a key player in cellular respiration, facilitating the conversion of nutrients into ATP (energy).
2. DNA Repair: NAD⁺ is used by enzymes such as PARPs (poly-ADP-ribose polymerases) to repair DNA damage, a critical function in preventing aging-related cellular decline.
3. Sirtuin Activation: Sirtuins are a family of proteins involved in regulating metabolic and stress responses. They rely on NAD⁺ to function and have been implicated in extending lifespan and improving healthspan in model organisms.

NAD⁺ levels naturally decline with age. This decline is associated with reduced cellular energy production, impaired DNA repair, and decreased sirtuin activity, all of which contribute to the aging process and age-related diseases.

Can NAD Supplements Work?

The efficacy of NAD⁺ supplements is a topic of ongoing research. NAD⁺ itself cannot easily cross cell membranes and is not directly bioavailable when ingested. Instead, precursors of NAD⁺ are used as supplements. These include:

1. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR): A precursor shown to increase NAD⁺ levels in humans and improve mitochondrial function.
2. Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN): Another precursor that has demonstrated the ability to raise NAD⁺ levels and improve markers of aging in animal models.

How NAD Precursors Work

When ingested, NR and NMN are absorbed and converted into NAD⁺ within cells through established metabolic pathways. Studies in both animals and humans have shown:
• Increased NAD⁺ levels in various tissues.
• Improved energy metabolism and mitochondrial function.
• Potential protection against age-related diseases like neurodegeneration and cardiovascular decline.

Limitations and Considerations

1. Evidence in Humans: While animal studies show promise, human studies are still limited. Early trials indicate NAD⁺ precursors may improve biomarkers of aging, but long-term benefits on lifespan or disease prevention remain unproven.
2. Bioavailability: While NR and NMN appear to be well-absorbed, their effectiveness may vary between individuals due to differences in metabolism and health status.
3. Cost and Quality: Supplements can be expensive, and not all products are rigorously tested for purity and efficacy.

Conclusion

NAD⁺ decline appears to play a significant role in aging, and restoring NAD⁺ levels through supplementation with precursors like NR or NMN holds potential. However, while early evidence is promising, more research is needed to confirm the long-term benefits and effectiveness in humans. If considering NAD⁺ precursors, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended.

Prompt / Q – is the supplement safe for youth?

Answer:

NAD⁺ precursors like Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) are generally considered safe for adults, including young people, based on current research. However, there are important factors to consider:

Safety and Risks

1. Limited Research in Youth:
   • Most studies on NAD⁺ precursors have focused on middle-aged or older adults or animal models. There is limited data on their effects in younger individuals who typically have naturally high NAD⁺ levels.
   • Supplementing NAD⁺ in youth may disrupt natural cellular processes, particularly in those who don’t have deficiencies or specific health conditions.
2. Potential Overactivation of Pathways:
   • NAD⁺ is involved in processes like energy metabolism and stress response. Excessive NAD⁺ levels could, theoretically, overstimulate pathways like sirtuins or PARPs, potentially leading to unintended consequences (e.g., imbalances in cellular signaling or metabolic function).
3. Unknown Long-Term Effects:
   • Long-term supplementation of NAD⁺ precursors in healthy individuals, particularly youth, has not been well-studied. While side effects reported in clinical trials have been mild (e.g., nausea, fatigue), the implications of sustained high NAD⁺ levels in younger individuals are unclear.

When Might It Be Justifiable for Youth?

1. Specific Conditions:
   • NAD⁺ precursors may benefit young individuals with conditions like mitochondrial disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, or other metabolic dysfunctions where NAD⁺ depletion plays a role.
2. Athletic Performance:
   • Some athletes consider these supplements to enhance energy metabolism and recovery, though the risks versus benefits in healthy youth remain uncertain.

General Recommendation

For healthy youth with naturally adequate NAD⁺ levels:
• Supplementation is likely unnecessary and may pose unknown risks.
• Maintaining high NAD⁺ levels through a healthy lifestyle (e.g., regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep) is preferable and safer.

If a young person is considering NAD⁺ supplements for specific reasons, consultation with a healthcare provider is strongly recommended to assess risks, benefits, and necessity.

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-12-newly-mechanism-reveals-nad-role.html