In the intricate world of cellular metabolism and energy production, there are two closely linked molecules that vie for supremacy: NAD+ and NADH. These molecules play pivotal roles in cellular processes and are key players in the fight for a smooth functioning body. They’re also very similar and may not be molecules that you’re familiar with. After all, NAD+ isn’t as widely spoken about as Vitamin C. Still, it’s there, and it’s critical—that’s why you’ll want to follow this article to understand just what NAD+ and its cousin NADH are, and what they do for you.

NAD+ And NADH: An Intricate Dance of Electrons

First things first in the matchup of NAD vs NADH is that it’s more useful to think of them as two sides of the same coin. In fact, they’re both the same base molecule. NAD+, or more scientifically known as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is simply the oxidized version. NADH is the reduced version. What does this mean? It means that NADH has courted over electrons from other molecules, and the NAD+ ones haven’t. When the molecule exchanges electrons, it can then pass that energy on to key functions in the body. In short, NAD+ is both the blueprint and the hype man, working to make sure that many critical processes in the body are working as they should be. 

Why Are NAD+ And NADH So Important?

NAD+ and NADH are so crucial for a few key reasons:

• Energy Production 

NAD+ is gaining infamy for its role in ATP production, which is an energy process in the cell. It works to boost several functions that do things for us like improve brain function or even increase muscle contractions. 

• DNA Repair

NAD+ doesn’t just help with energy, it’s also a guardian for our genetic material. It actively repairs and protects DNA, which in turn helps to maintain genomic integrity.

• Cellular Communication

Our cells need to talk, and both NADH and NAD+ make that happen. Think of these molecules as the masterminds that tell our genes what to do, and which processes to turn on or off as required. 

• Metabolism

NAD+ plays a key role in many metabolic processes, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle), and even fatty acid oxidation. It essentially helps us to extract energy from the food we consume.

The Aging Factor

Like many functions, NAD+ and NADH levels decline as we age. This decrease has significant consequences and is now being linked to many age-related diseases like dementia, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. With less of these molecules available, our cells might not function as efficiently as they used to, leading to various health issues.

How to Boost Levels as We Age 

While the science is still in its early stages, the use of supplements is looking very promising. You don’t even need to take two supplements, either; instead you’d just need to take NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide). This will boost NAD+ levels and, as a result, NADH levels, too, to maintain our store of them as we get older. 

By boosting NAD+ and NADH levels, cells can potentially regain some of their youthful energy, and you can boost your protection against many of the most common age-related diseases.