Thanks to a combination of scientific advancements, the field of aging research has uncovered key biological pathways involved in aging, including the role of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) in cellular metabolism [1].
NAD+ is a coenzyme found in all cells and needed for virtually all biological processes. As we age, our NAD+ levels decline, and finding effective ways to maintain these levels is associated with cellular repair and overall health.
This article will explore some of the best NAD+ supplements available. Rather than taking NAD+ itself, some precursors like NMN and NR might be more efficient for increasing NAD+ levels, and we'll explain why in detail.
How Do You Boost NAD Plus Levels?
NAD+ can be boosted through various methods, but the most effective approach is often through supplementing your diet with its precursors.
The coenzyme NAD+ can make it difficult for the body to break down and absorb directly. When this pure compound is taken orally, it has a low bioavailability. Most of it is broken down by the digestive system before it reaches the bloodstream, making direct supplementation of NAD+ not very effective.
NAD+ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) have smaller molecules and are much more easily absorbed by the body, where they are then converted into NAD+ [1].
The Best NAD Boosters
So, if taking pure NAD+ supplements isn't the answer to effectively increasing NAD+, what else can you take?
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Nicotinamide riboside is a form of vitamin B3 that's readily absorbed and converted into NAD+ through a series of biochemical reactions.
Compared to NMN, NR might be more widely available on the market.
Nicotimainde Mononucleotide (NMN)
Another direct precursor to NAD+ is nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN).
NMN is much more easily absorbed into the body and directly converted to NAD+ within the cells. In fact, it works so well in increasing NAD+ levels that a company is investing in FDA approval and research for NMN as a medication for metabolic disease and anti-aging. Because of this many NMN products are being temporarily taken off the shelves for further research. However, if you know where to look, you can still find many high-quality NMN products online.
Nicotinamide/Niacinamide (NAM)
Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is another form of vitamin B3 that can be converted into NAD+.
There's research to show that NAM is effective in increasing NAD+ levels in the body. However, high doses have also been associated with inhibiting certain enzymes, called sirtuins, that are beneficial for maintaining cellular energy and function, making it a less preferred form of NAD+ supplementation [2].
Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)
We're not done with vitamin B3 yet.
Niacin is another variation of B3 that the body can convert into NAD+ [2]. This common form is found in many multivitamin supplements and is readily derived from foods such as meats, fish, whole grains, legumes, and veggies. However, the issue with niacin is that at high doses, it's more likely to produce irritation called flushing — a warm, tingling sensation and redness of the skin.
Liposomal NAD+ Supplements
We've already explained that pure NAD+ supplements aren't always the most effective way to increase NAD+ levels in the body because of their poor absorption rate.
However, with new advancements in supplement production, liposomal technology may help improve this absorption rate.
Liposomal technology involves encasing the NAD+ molecule in a vegetable-based fat (lipid layer) — this helps protect the compound from being broken down by the digestive system and facilitates its absorption into the bloodstream.
Top NAD + Boosters in 2024
- Best Liposomal NAD: Neurogan Health NAD+ Capsules
- Best Powder NMN Supplement: ProHealth NMN Powder
- Best NAD+ Resveratrol: Neurogan Health NAD+ Resveratrol Capsules
- Best Seller NAD+ Supplement: Elysium Basis NR Capsules
- Best NR Supplement for NAD+ Budget-Friendly: Neurogan Health NR Capsules
- Best NMN Droppers: Neurogan Health NMN Droppers
- Best NR Capsules Formula: TruNiagen NR Capsules
- Best Liposomal NMN Capsules: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN Capsules
Neurogan Health NAD+ Capsules
This is one of the newest products in our NAD support supplements because it took longer to research and understand this option's effectiveness.
As we mentioned, pure NAD oral supplements aren't as bioavailable as NR or NMN supplements. Still, by encasing NAD+ in a lipid layer through liposomal technology, you get a better delivery system for this compound. It's also offered in a higher dosage of 900 mg per serving to accommodate its lower absorption rate.
Specs:
- Price: $59
- Dosage: 900 mg
- Capsule Count: 90
ProHealth Longevity NMN Powder
ProHealth Longevity is a brand known for its high-quality dietary supplements, which promote healthy aging and overall wellness.
Its catalog stocks NMN oral supplements in different formats, such as capsules, tablets, loose powder, and lozenges, to cater to various preferences.
Its NMN powder stands out for quality, price point, and versatility. Each container holds 15 grams of pure NMN, giving users options for flexible dosing.
Specs:
- Price: $44.25
- Dosage: NA
- Quantity: 15 grams
Neurogan Health Liposomal NAD+ Resveratrol Capsules
NAD+ and resveratrol are healthy aging compounds that, when combined, have a synergistic effect for supporting cellular health and, by extension, cellular longevity.
Like NAD+, resveratrol also activates sirtuins, a protein family that regulates cellular function, including DNA repair, inflammation control, and metabolic regulation [3]. Both NAD+ and resveratrol independently activate sirtuins, but their combined effect is believed to be more potent.
This is one of our newest formulations, developed in collaboration with researchers at Aalborg University. We're constantly working to bring you the best healthy aging supplements with the current research available to us.
Specs:
- Price: $49
- Dosage: 1200 mg
- Capsule Count: 90
Elysium Basis NR Capsules
Elysium is a big name in the anti-aging supplement space, known for its scientifically backed formulations and quality production process.
Each capsule contains a serving of patent-pending crystalline nicotinamide riboside and pterostilbene, two compounds that work synergistically to support cell health and NAD+ levels. This crystalline form of NR is designed to improve its bioavailability.
Pterostilbene is a natural polyphenol similar to resveratrol found in blueberries and grapes. It has potent antioxidant properties, activates sirtuins, and may help support healthy brain function [4].
The only downside to Elysium is its pricier products, making it less accessible to many people looking to make the most of their NAD supplements for long-term use.
Specs:
- Price: $60
- Dosage: 250 mg NR, 50 mg psterostilbene
- Capsule Count: 60
Neurogan Health NR Capsules
For those looking for pure, high-quality NR Capsules at a wallet-friendly price point, we've got you covered with our NR Capsules.
We've opted for a high-potency of 900 mg of pure nicotinamide riboside per serving, understanding that higher dosages are often required to bypass the potential breakdown of the compound by the digestive system.
Our no-fuss NR supplement delivers an unmatched high dose at a value, with servings that last over a month for each bottle.
Specs:
- Price: $51
- Dosage: 900 mg
- Capsule Count: 90
Neurogan Health NMN Drops
Our NMN drops are great for people who don't enjoy taking capsule or pill dietary supplements. These liquid droppers allow you to dial in your doses drop-by-drop and can be taken directly under the tongue for increased absorption or added to your food and drinks.
With every full dropper, you can get 250 mg of NMN, a supply that can last you for at least two months with daily use.
Specs:
- Price: $49
- Dosage: 250 mg
- Size: 2 oz (60 mL)
TruNiagen NR Capsules
TruNiagen has long stood out as a premium option for nicotinamide riboside supplements. Its patented formula is said to boost NAD+ levels effectively.
As one of the first NR products to hit the market, TruNiagen has maintained its reputation for quality through scientific research and consistent product integrity.
While the pricepoint of $119.95 for a 3-month supply may be a little steep compared to the other alternatives on this list, many support that this brand is well worth the investment for those committed to caring for their cellular health.
Specs:
- Price: $119.95
- Dosage: 300 mg
- Capsule Count: 90
Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN Capsules
Genuine Purity is a brand recognized for its commitment to quality and transparency.
With 250 mg of NMN per capsule and a liposomal delivery system that ensures superior absorption, this supplement significantly benefits energy metabolism, DNA repair, and overall vitality.
Genuine Purity NMN Capsules, priced at $94.00 for a 60-capsule bottle, are a premium option that delivers on its promise of quality and efficacy.
Specs:
- Price: $94.00
- Dosage: 250 mg
- Capsule Count: 60
Public Reviews on NAD+ Boosters
- “Has helped me maintain youthful energy and vitality. The nicotinamide riboside in the product is crucial for NAD+ production. I've noticed a reduction in early aging signs and feel more energetic despite a stressful lifestyle.”
- “NAD+ has increased my energy levels and improved my overall body function. It's non-GMO and made in a certified facility, which gives me confidence in its quality. Although I experienced mild headaches initially, these subsided after a few days.”
- “NMN is fantastic. The 900 mg dose has significantly boosted my energy and improved my skin elasticity. I've also noticed better sleep and a sharper mind. It's a great value for those looking to enhance their overall health.”
- “NAD has been a game-changer for me. It includes NAD3, which addresses the root causes of low NAD. I've experienced better energy and cognition, and it's great to have a product that combines multiple longevity supplements like resveratrol and spermidine.”
The Takeaway: The Best NAD Supplement On The Market
There's a growing interest in extending life and improving the quality of life, which is often called the healthspan. As we enter the golden years, people are looking for ways to maintain their physical and cognitive functions, leading to a demand for products and practices supporting long-term health and wellness.
From my research and experience, I believe that using NAD+ precursors or choosing a liposomal encapsulated NAD+ is generally the most effective way to enhance NAD+ levels.
These formats are more readily absorbed and converted into NAD+ within the body, bypassing the absorption issues associated with direct, pure NAD+ supplements.
That being said, it's important to remember that NAD+ supplements and their precursors aren't FDA-approved to treat conditions like muscle loss and insulin sensitivity or stop turning back the time of the aging process.
Yes, NAD+ is involved in these processes, but it's not a drug that will cure or mitigate any diseases. It supports an already healthy lifestyle with a nutrient-rich diet and exercise.
If you have any safety concerns, please speak with your healthcare provider, who can provide you with personalized health advice based on your condition and wellness goals.
Resources:
- Ren, Z., Xu, Y., Li, T., Sun, W., Tang, Z., Wang, Y., ... & Sun, Z. (2022). NAD+ and its possible role in gut microbiota: Insights on the mechanisms by which gut microbes influence host metabolism. Animal Nutrition, 10, 360-371.
- Blanco-Vaca, F., Rotllan, N., Canyelles, M., Mauricio, D., Escolà-Gil, J. C., & Julve, J. (2022). NAD+-increasing strategies to improve cardiometabolic health?. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 12, 815565.
- Gertz, M., Nguyen, G. T. T., Fischer, F., Suenkel, B., Schlicker, C., Fränzel, B., ... & Steegborn, C. (2012). A molecular mechanism for direct sirtuin activation by resveratrol. PloS one, 7(11), e49761.
- Chang, J., Rimando, A., Pallas, M., Camins, A., Porquet, D., Reeves, J., ... & Casadesus, G. (2012). Low-dose pterostilbene, but not resveratrol, is a potent neuromodulator in aging and Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiology of aging, 33(9), 2062-2071.
