Last Updated on September 27, 2025

NAD+ BOOSTERS – CELLULAR ENERGY & REPAIR

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that plays a critical role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and overall metabolic health. Think of NAD+ as a molecular spark plug that keeps your cells running smoothly. But as we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which is why boosting it has become a hot topic in longevity and biohacking circles.

WHAT NAD+ DOES IN THE BODY?

Energy metabolism: Helps convert nutrients into ATP, your cell’s energy currency.

DNA repair: Supports enzymes like PARPs that fix damaged DNA.

Sirtuin activation: Fuels sirtuins, proteins linked to aging, inflammation, and stress resistance.

Cell signaling: Facilitates communication between cells and within mitochondria.

Immune function: Plays a role in modulating immune responses and inflammation.

NAD+ BOOSTERS

NAD boosters are supplements or compounds designed to increase levels of NAD+ in the body. Common NAD+ Boosters are:

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide): Converts directly into NAD+. Popular for anti-aging.
NR (Nicotinamide Riboside): A form of Vitamin B3 that converts into NMN, then NAD+.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Also known as Nicotinic acid. Converts into NAD+ through a longer pathway.
NAM (Nicotinamide): Another Vitamin B3 form, also know as Niacinamide, but high doses can inhibit sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent enzymes linked to longevity and DNA repair.

BENEFITS PEOPLE SEEK FROM NAD+ BOOSTERS

• Increased energy and stamina
• Improved cognitive function and focus
• Enhanced skin health and cellular repair
• Potential longevity and anti-aging effects
• Better sleep and recovery

TOP FOODS THAT SUPPORT NAD+ PRODUCTION: VITAMIN B3-RICH FOODS (NIACIN, NICOTINAMIDE)

Animal-Based Sources (richest and most bioavailable):

• Beef, pork, chicken, turkey
• Tuna, salmon, sardines
• Milk, yogurt, cheese
• Eggs

Plant-Based Sources:

• Brown rice, whole grains
• Peanuts, legumes
• Mushrooms
• Avocados
• Fortified cereals and grains

THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR

A recent study found that excess Vitamin B3—especially from fortified foods and supplements—can lead to elevated 4PY (N-methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide), a metabolite linked to vascular inflammation and heart disease. People with high 4PY levels had ~60% higher risk of heart attack and stroke. Better to opt-in for NMN or low-dose NR if targeting NAD+.

Note: Vitamin B3 from food is less likely to trigger 4PY buildup compared to high-dose supplements.

RECOMMENDED NAD+ BOOSTERS

Reference
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/9/4463
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/endocrj/67/2/67_EJ19-0313/_html/-char/en