NADH and NAD+ are two forms of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), but they aren’t exactly the same. Still, one thing is for sure: these molecules are crucial in various biological processes.
In this post, we will discuss their differences, benefits, and functions in maintaining cellular health. Read on to learn more about these coenzymes we can’t live without.
Are NAD+ and NADH the same?
Imagine NAD+ and NADH as two sides of the same coin. One can’t exist without the other.
For starters, NAD+ (the plus sign is important) and NADH are both forms of NAD. They are both necessary as part of cellular respiration. But for NAD to work properly, these two molecules must achieve a certain balance.
But how do they differ? Let us explain.
NAD+ and NADH are dubbed as the ‘redox couple‘. Redox is the portmanteau of the words ‘reduced’ and ‘oxidized’. When a molecule is reduced, it gains electrons; if it’s oxidized, it loses electrons.
So how do these redox reactions apply to NAD? NAD+ is reduced to NADH, and in the process, it gains a charged hydrogen atom and two electrons.
When NAD+ combines with H+ and two negatively charged electrons, they cancel each other, making the NADH molecule natural. This is why NADH doesn’t have the “+” sign.
A molecule’s charge (with or without the plus sign) is crucial because it indicates how they interact with other molecules. This means that NAD+ can’t do what NADH does and vice versa.
Take note that oxidation and reduction can also happen the other way around. NADH can be oxidized to NAD+ as part of keeping the two molecules’ ratio.
NAD reverts back and forth in these two forms, making this molecule both an electron acceptor and a donor. This happens throughout the three phases of cellular respiration: glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain.
However, experts are still baffled about NAD+ and NADH ratios. It tends to vary, depending on the location inside the cell.
How NADH and NAD+ work in the body
NAD is involved in hundreds of various metabolic processes. But its primary and most popular role is in energy production.
This function starts with NAD+. This molecule allows the body to produce ATP from scratch using a combination of macromolecules like carbs, fats, proteins, and more.
As our body creates energy or ATP (adenosine triphosphate), NAD+ will be reduced into NADH. At the end of energy production, NADH will be oxidized back to NAD+, completing the process. This re-oxidation occurs since NADH can’t enter the mitochondrial membrane.
All these processes are necessary to convert our food into energy. It starts when we swallow food, and our digestive system breaks it down into smaller sugar molecules.
Imagine NAD+ as trains. The more train coaches there are, the more electrons will be transported to create more energy. But if there are fewer trains, only a few electrons will make it, disrupting energy production. This will lead to aging and eventual death of the cells.
Again, both NAD+ and NADH are indispensable. If one isn’t produced correctly, it will throw off the balance and trigger deficiency symptoms like weakness, premature aging, and impaired immune function.
Aside from energy production, NAD also plays a role in breaking alcohol into acetate, repairing DNA, proper functioning of sirtuins enzymes, and so on. NAD is present in every living cell, so imagine its crucial role.
Are there any side effects to NAD+/NADH?
As long as you don’t go overboard, supplementing your NAD levels is entirely safe. We recommend getting your NAD treatments from a reputable and licensed provider to avoid risks.
Nevertheless, the side effects of NAD are pretty mild. Most people experience nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, headaches, and discomfort. All of which clear up on their own within a few hours.
However, if you’re experiencing something serious like breathing difficulties or increased heart rate, you must contact your provider immediately.
Adverse effects are rare but could happen to those with underlying health problems or taking certain medications.
Benefits of increasing NAD levels
While NAD naturally occurs in our bodies, its level decreases as we grow older. It’s essential to boost its supply to enjoy the following benefits as we age:
1. Improved mental performance
Increased NAD levels are linked to improved brain functions and better mood. An ample supply of NAD ensures that the brain receives enough energy to perform complex cognitive processes.
This benefit is specifically crucial for older adults. It’s a promising solution to delay mental decline even at an advanced age.
2. Stronger immunity
NAD also aids in boosting a person’s immunity by reducing inflammation and increasing the body’s ability to fight immune stress.
Aside from that, NAD helps stimulate the CD38 glycoprotein found in T-cells. This molecule plays a vital role in an effective immune response.
3. Aids in addiction recovery
In a 2020 review published by the National Library of Medicine, it’s concluded that NAD+ IV therapy aids in various neuropsychiatric conditions, including addiction.
The review also concluded that NAD IV helps reduce withdrawal symptoms among patients, making it easier to treat addiction. While NAD IV therapy isn’t the sole solution to this problem, it provides many benefits without any side effects.
4. Slowing signs of aging
A sufficient supply of NAD ensures that each body cell has enough energy to function. This prevents damage and cell death, directly slowing down the signs of aging.
While NAD is far from a fountain of youth, it still helps fight stress and damage in your body. It’s a promising solution that many medical professionals are currently studying.
5. Better athletic performance
Increased NAD levels in the body support cardiovascular health, metabolism, and energy levels. All of these are necessary to endure rigorous physical exertion.
NAD also supports the recovery process by reducing muscle soreness faster than usual. It allows you to regain your stamina quickly after an exhausting workout.
How to increase your NAD levels
If you want to increase your NAD levels, the most effective way is NAD IV Therapy. This intravenous treatment delivers the much-needed NAD right into your bloodstream.
This way, NAD takes effect instantly, allowing you to feel relief faster than any oral supplement.
NAD IV drips can also be infused with other vitamins and minerals to enhance its benefits.
On the other hand, you can try oral NAD supplements. This also offers benefits but is not as effective as IV drips.
Also, oral solutions increase your risk of stomach upset. It could cause diarrhea and vomiting, which ultimately defeats its purpose.
Boost your health; try NAD IV Therapy today!
Here at IV Concierge, we personalize your NAD drip based on your needs. We also offer lab testing to determine your deficiencies and target them with the correct dosage.
We deliver our NAD IV anywhere in Miami – your house, office, hotel room, party venue, and so on. Our licensed nurse will go the distance to power up your body with our NAD IV therapy.
We aim to make wellness easy, convenient, and accessible for everyone. We are the go-to mobile IV therapy company in North Miami Beach and Delray Beach areas.
Rest assured that you’ll feel refreshed and energized after each session. Call us, and we will make you feel your best.
