What is NAD+?
by Mila McManus MD
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is the active form of a coenzyme that is an essential component of chemical reactions that occur in all of our cells. These reactions regulate nearly every bodily process.
Be careful of other products marketing themselves as NAD. NAD+, NADH and NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) are not the same. Although NAD+ plays a role in the same pathway as NADH and NR, there are certain NAD+ consuming reactions where only NAD+ can be utilized. In these reactions, NADH and NR are not effective. While NADH and NR are less expensive than NAD+, the positive effects are not nearly as potent as NAD+.
NAD+ is Involved in Two Major Functions:
FIRST: Energy Production. NAD+ helps to turn carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body into useable energy via the Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle). This important chemical reaction results in the production of ATP. ATP is the energy currency of life, powering nearly every biological activity such as muscle contraction, protein manufacturing, and cellular communication.
SECOND: Regulating the Body’s “Stress Response”. NAD+ partners with proteins involved in regulating and preserving health. This includes synthesis and repair of DNA, regulation of circadian rhythms (sleep-wake cycle), and stem cell production.
As we age, levels of NAD+ decrease in our bodies. Scientists believe that by the time we reach our 40’s, the supply of NAD+ is no longer able to meet the demand for important biological processes. Additionally, sickness and disease, as well as environmental and self-induced stressors can rapidly deplete our body of this vital nutrient.
Additionally, low levels of NAD+ may contribute to fatigue, depression, and anxiety. It hinders our body’s ability to overcome the grip of drug and alcohol addiction. Additionally, low levels of NAD+ may contribute to worsening disease states in vital organs such as the heart, liver, and brain. NAD+ depletion weakens our immune system, which affects our ability to fight infection or slow the progression of cancer.
Reasons to consider incorporating NAD+ into your regimen:
- The aging process
- Athletic performance
- Anxiety, depression and PTSD
- Drug and alcohol addiction
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Other forms of Dementia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Other neurodegenerative disorders
- “Chemo Brain”
- Low energy levels
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Sleep disturbances
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Migraine headaches
- Autoimmune diseases
- Autoinflammatory diseases
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
What is the Course of Treatment for NAD+?
Treatment strategies at TWIHW are tailored to your specific needs.
We currently offer treatments consisting of IV infusions of NAD+. The treatment durations vary based on treatment protocol and allow for a larger amount of NAD+ to be delivered directly to the body’s tissues, allowing depleted stores to be replenished. We also offer NAD+ injections (using small insulin syringes) which can be administered at our office, or done yourself at home.
For those just looking for a quick “boost”, we also offer reduced dose IV infusions.
What Can I Expect During the NAD+ Treatment?
A brief assessment will be conducted on the day of treatment. For intravenous NAD+, a small IV will be inserted. The infusion will run for approximately 2 hours. Patients are able to pass the time in our relaxing environment by watching TV, reading, and listening to music. You will also have access to high-speed internet and can bring your laptop for personal use. Water, tea, and coffee are available upon request. Please plan accordingly for meals as needed if doing a longer infusion. Delivery can be made to the facility but we ask that you refrain from any fast food or pizza.
Call our office at 281-298-6742, or visit www.twihw.com
When NAD+ IV isn’t possible we also offer NAD+ injections that can be administered in office or taken home. Alternatively you can consider Tru Niagen as an oral supplement alternative.
