LOS ANGELES (KABC) — There’s a relatively new dietary supplement making waves – it’s called NAD.
Many influencers and podcasters are promoting this supplement, claiming that NAD (short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) can turn back the aging clock and boost energy, acuity, and strength. Masu. Preliminary research shows promise, but will it really work?
At the Vitamin Shoppe in Pasadena, the top shelves are lined with popular supplements. Store manager Gabriel Carranza says he can’t keep it stocked.
“They sell out quite often, so we probably get three or four bottles in every week. They’re probably gone within two weeks of coming in,” Carranza said.
So what’s all the buzz around NAD? Early science shows it may help promote longevity. An enthusiastic customer convinced Freddie Barroso, 37, of North Hollywood, to try it for himself.
“We’re getting older like everyone else. I’ve heard good things about that,” Barroso said.
Dr. Sara Espinoza, Director Translational Geroscience Cedars-Sinai’s colleagues have been studying NAD, a coenzyme that is key to metabolism and cellular function.
“We know that levels decline with age and that there is a link to age-related diseases,” she says.
Age-related diseases include dementia, diabetes, and vascular disease. Side effects may include headache, fatigue, nausea, and indigestion. Early human studies focused on safety.
“There are no significant adverse effects when taken for a relatively short period of time, like a few weeks, and it does increase cellular NAD levels in the blood,” Espinoza said.
This was a small study, and although NAD levels increased, the researchers found no significant benefit in terms of improved cognition.
Some animal studies suggest that increasing NAD may improve mitochondrial function, insulin regulation, and cognition, but these benefits have not yet been proven in human studies.
“Future larger trials may show benefit, but at this point we can say that it is not recommended based on current evidence,” she said.
Until now, most of the research has been done on oral supplements, but expensive intravenous and injectable NAD drugs are becoming increasingly popular. Espinoza said that, like the pill, there is no evidence that it works.
Bottles of NAD cost between $20 and $150 per month, depending on the brand and dosage. For Barroso, it’s a small price to pay for what he hopes will be a big payoff.
“You’re trying to keep yourself young. You’re trying to keep yourself healthy,” he said.
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