Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBenefits of NADHHow NADH WorksNADH vs. NAD+ vs. NRNADH SupplementsSafety Considerations
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Benefits of NADH
How NADH Works
NADH vs. NAD+ vs. NR
NADH Supplements
Safety Considerations
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotideplus hydrogen (NADH) is the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). Cells throughout your body useNADHto make energy.
NADH is a coenzyme, which is a compound that helps other compounds calledenzymesperform chemical reactions. While NADH is the reduced form of NAD, NAD+ (NAD plus) is the oxidized form. NADH and NAD+ are not the same but work together to carry out various reactions.
NADH has many important roles and functions. However, the most notable function of NADH is in cellularmetabolism.
This article covers NADH, its health benefits, how it works in your body, supplements, and safety considerations.
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Some research suggests that NADH supplements may provide various health benefits and even improve the quality of life for some people.
NADH supplements are often used to increase energy, support athletic performance, and treat conditions like chronic fatigue, heart disease, and some neurodegenerative diseases.
According to scientific evidence, NADH supplements may benefit the following:
Additional studies are needed to determine the potential role of NADH for any condition.
How NADH Works in Your Body
All the cells in your body need energy to work properly. They get this energy through a process involving molecules like NADH.
Your cells get the molecules they need to make energy from the food you eat. These molecules can either be stored in cells or come from your blood.
Foods that may increase NADH production include meat, fish, and dairy. Food sources oftryptophan(an amino acid) andniacin(vitamin B3) may also increase NADH levels. Plant-based foods, likecucumber,cabbage, andsoy, contain other forms of NAD that may also increase levels of NADH.
Inside cells, chemical reactions turn food into energy. These reactions often involve moving charged molecules called electrons from one molecule to another, changing the energy inside cells.
Cells can store energy and the molecules needed to make energy, like NADH, for later use.Adenosine triphosphate(ATP)is the primary energy molecule stored and used in cells. ATP is crucial for cell activities and movement.
Your body constantly needs to make ATP. NADH helps with this process.
During cellular metabolism, NADH molecules are made. NADH then carries electrons (two electrons per NADH molecule) to the electron transport chain in themitochondriaof the cells. This is where large numbers of ATP are created.
Finally, NADH transfers its electrons to oxygen molecules in the mitochondria, making water. This process generates energy in the form of three ATP molecules for each electron.
In the end, NADH is essential for making ATP and for cell metabolism, which, in turn, affects energy levels.
NADH, NAD+, andNR (nicotinamide riboside)are three similar but different forms of NAD.
As previously stated, NADH is the reduced form of NAD, while NAD+ is the oxidized form. Whether a molecule is oxidized or reduced depends on its number of electrons, oxygen atoms, and hydrogen atoms.
In your body, NAD+ is mostly used as a molecule that can accept and transfer electrons, while NADH is used to carry electrons to the electron transport chain to make ATP.
NR is a precursor to NAD+, meaning it can be used to make NAD+. NR supplementation is believed to increase NAD+ synthesis in the body, which may also indirectly increase NADH synthesis.
NADH supplements are widely available these days due to an increased interest in their potential uses and benefits.
You can find NADH supplements online or in certain stores, like grocery and retail stores. NADH supplements are also often sold in specialty supplement and nutrition shops.
NADH supplements come in many forms, including capsules, chewable tablets, lozenges, and soft gels. In some cases, NADH may also be given via intravenous (IV) therapy.
Typically, NADH supplements are made from synthetic sources and may include additional ingredients, such as other nutrients, flavorings, and fillers. Be sure to check the list of ingredients for any potential allergens.
You should be aware of potential side effects, precautions, and possible interactions before starting an NADH supplement.
Importantly, avoid NADH supplements if you are allergic to any of their ingredients. Seek immediate medical attention if you have asevere allergic reaction(itching, hives, shortness of breath).
Potential Side Effects
In general, NADH supplements are thought to be safe and well-tolerated. However, side effects may be possible when using NADH.
Reported side effects of NADH from various studies include:
Other types of NAD supplements have been associated with additional side effects, includingdiarrhea,nausea, rash,hot flashes, andleg cramps. However, side effects are generally mild and short-lived.
The best way to reduce your risk of side effects when taking NADH is to use the supplement only as directed.
You may be more likely to experience side effects if you take too much NADH if you use it in place of prescribed medications, or if you take multiple supplements.
Precautions
NADH supplements are thought to be safe for most people to use. However, some people may need to limit or avoid NADH supplements.
There is not enough data to confirm whether NADH is safe to use duringpregnancyorlactation. Therefore, NADH may need to be avoided during these periods until more research is available.
If you have any health conditions or use any prescription medications, talk with a healthcare provider before using NADH supplements.
Interactions
Some supplements negatively interact with medications, other supplements, and/or herbs.
Interactions may change how a medication, supplement, or herb works in your body or increase the risk of side effects.
However, NADH is not known to interact with any medications or supplements, including herbs.
Still, it’s recommended that you play it safe and check with a healthcare provider about using NADH if you take any prescription medications or use other supplements or herbs.
Summary
NADH is a chemical and coenzyme that occurs naturally in your body. You need NADH to make energy. NADH works closely with other molecules to carry out cellular metabolism and create ATP.
Some research shows that NADH supplements may provide benefits for low energy, athletic performance, and certain conditions, including chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, and cognitive decline.
There are many types of NADH supplements on the market. NADH should not be confused with NAD+, NR, or other forms of NAD.
NADH supplements are generally considered safe to use, but some people may need to take extra precautions. Speak with a healthcare provider to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of NADH.
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