Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a critical coenzyme that supports energy production, cellular repair, and overall metabolic function. NAD plays a key role in converting the food you eat into energy and supports important functions like DNA repair and gene expression. However, as you age, NAD levels in your body naturally decline, which can impact energy levels, cognitive function, and overall health.
So, how do you boost NAD levels naturally? One way is through diet. Some foods can help support your body's production of NAD. In this blog, we’ll break down the foods that contain nutrients involved in NAD production and other natural ways to increase NAD levels.
What is NAD?
NAD is essential for many processes in the body, especially for energy metabolism. NAD exists in two forms: NAD+ and NADH. NAD+ is the oxidized form that accepts electrons, while NADH is the reduced form that donates electrons during energy production. Together, these forms of NAD support the production of ATP, the primary energy source for cells.
Declining NAD levels can lead to reduced energy, slower metabolism, and diminished cellular repair. The good news is that NAD levels can be supported through diet, lifestyle changes, and therapies like NAD IV infusions.
What Foods Contain NAD Precursors?
There are no foods that directly contain NAD, but several foods contain compounds that your body uses to produce NAD. These compounds are known as NAD precursors, and the primary ones are niacin (vitamin B3), tryptophan, and nicotinamide riboside. Let’s look at some of the best food sources for these NAD-boosting compounds.
1. Niacin-Rich Foods
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a key precursor in the production of NAD. Your body uses niacin to create NAD through a biochemical pathway. Including niacin-rich foods in your diet can help support NAD levels.
Sources of Niacin:
Chicken breast
Turkey
Tuna
Salmon
Beef liver
Mushrooms
Peanuts
Whole grains like brown rice and oats
2. Tryptophan-Rich Foods
Tryptophan is an amino acid that your body can convert into NAD through a multi-step process. This pathway is not as efficient as the niacin pathway, but tryptophan-rich foods can still contribute to overall NAD production.
Sources of Tryptophan:
Turkey
Chicken
Eggs
Cheese
Tofu
Soy products
Nuts and seeds
Fish like salmon and tuna
3. Foods Containing Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Nicotinamide riboside is a more recently discovered NAD precursor. It is naturally found in trace amounts in certain foods and can be supplemented to boost NAD levels more directly. While food sources of NR are limited, incorporating these foods can still help:
Sources of Nicotinamide Riboside:
Milk and dairy products
Fish like salmon
Chicken
Yeast-containing products like bread and beer
Other Ways to Boost NAD Naturally
While diet plays a big role in supporting NAD production, there are other natural methods to increase your NAD levels.
1. Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating has been shown to increase NAD levels by activating a protein called SIRT1, which relies on NAD for its activity. Fasting creates a mild stress response that stimulates NAD production, which in turn can help improve energy metabolism and support cellular repair.
2. Exercise
Regular physical activity is another way to naturally increase NAD levels. Exercise stimulates the production of NAD+ by boosting energy demands on the cells. Activities like cardio and strength training can trigger the body to produce more NAD to meet the increased need for ATP during workouts.
3. Sunlight and Circadian Rhythm
Your body's circadian rhythm, or internal clock, is tied to NAD production. Exposing yourself to natural sunlight in the morning can help regulate your circadian rhythm and promote NAD synthesis. Maintaining a consistent sleep-wake cycle can also help boost NAD levels by optimizing metabolic processes.
4. Supplementation
In addition to diet, NAD precursors like niacin and nicotinamide riboside are available in supplement form. These supplements can directly boost NAD levels, providing support for those looking to optimize their energy levels and cellular health. However, supplementation should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe and effective for your needs.
Consult Your Doctor Before Starting NAD Therapy
Before trying any new NAD-boosting methods, including dietary changes or supplements, it’s important to consult your doctor. A healthcare professional can assess your current NAD levels, review your health conditions, and recommend the best ways to increase NAD safely. If you’re considering NAD IV therapy or oral supplementation, a doctor’s input will help you get the most out of your treatment.
NAD Therapy at Revived IV Therapy in Houston
At Revived IV Therapy, we offer NAD IV infusions that deliver NAD directly into your bloodstream for fast, effective results. Our NAD treatments are designed to support energy production, cellular repair, and cognitive function. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific health goals. Whether you're looking to support NAD levels naturally or explore NAD IV therapy, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Located in Houston, we provide a comfortable and professional environment for all of your wellness needs.
Eating the right foods and making lifestyle changes can support your body’s natural production of NAD. At Revived IV Therapy in Houston, we offer NAD IV infusions to help you optimize your health and energy. Always consult your doctor before starting new therapies or dietary changes to ensure they’re safe and effective for your needs.