Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH) functions as an essential coenzyme found naturally in all living cells, powering cellular energy production and supporting critical brain functions.
NADH transforms food into ATP through redox reactions in the mitochondria, enhancing memory, mental clarity, and providing neuroprotection against age-related cognitive decline.
NADH supplementation demonstrates significant benefits for conditions including chronic fatigue syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, depression, and athletic performance through its dual role in energy metabolism and antioxidant protection.
Table of Contents
What Is NADH?
NADH (C21H29N7O14P2), the reduced form of NAD+ (C21H28N7O14P2), is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in all living cells that plays a crucial role in energy production by facilitating the conversion of food into cellular fuel.
NADH is primarily located in the mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouses) and the cytoplasm.
It originates from vitamin B3 (niacin) and plays a vital role in converting food into energy by participating in redox (oxidation-reduction) reactions.
Although produced in the human body, it is also found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, and for more effective results it is also used as a supplement.
It’s beneficial for enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mental clarity.
It also improves mood and provides neuroprotection against age-related decline.
Interesting Fact: Due to its benefits for cognitive health and wellness, NADH’s global market is estimated to grow at around 13% every year. (1)
How Does NADH Function in the Body?
NADH functions as an electron donor in the body, playing a critical role in energy production and cellular respiration by transferring electrons within mitochondria to generate ATP, which powers all cellular activities.
During this process, NADH transfers electrons, causing oxidative phosphorylation and ultimately leading to the production of ATP, the cell’s energy currency.
According to a study, NADH is also involved in various other cellular processes, including:(2)
- DNA repair: Provides the necessary energy for these reactions
- Gene expression regulation: Regulates the activity of certain proteins that control gene expression and cellular function
- Oxidant defense: Hinders oxidative stress by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells)
What is NADH Used For?
NADH is used for a variety of health conditions due to its role in cellular energy production and its antioxidant properties. Its applications range from neurological disorders to chronic fatigue and athletic performance enhancement.
NADH for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
NADH is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
Clinical research has shown that NADH supplementation can significantly reduce fatigue symptoms in CFS patients. In one study, 26 CFS patients received 10 mg of NADH daily, with 31% reporting improvements in fatigue levels within just four weeks of treatment.(3)
The energy-boosting mechanism of NADH helps combat the persistent exhaustion characteristic of this condition by enhancing mitochondrial function and ATP production.
NADH for Parkinson’s Disease
NADH shows promise in managing Parkinson’s disease symptoms by supporting dopamine production, which helps reduce tremors and improve motor function in patients suffering from this neurodegenerative condition.
Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons. NADH plays a crucial role in dopamine synthesis, potentially helping to alleviate motor symptoms associated with this condition.
Research indicates that NADH supplementation can increase brain dopamine levels by up to 40% in Parkinson’s patients, leading to improved mobility and reduced tremors.(4)
NADH for Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Decline
NADH supplementation may help slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive impairment.
By enhancing mitochondrial function and providing neuroprotection against oxidative stress, NADH helps maintain cognitive abilities in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions.
A clinical trial demonstrated that patients with Alzheimer’s disease who received NADH supplementation for 12 weeks showed significant improvements in cognitive performance compared to those receiving a placebo.(5)
NADH for Depression
NADH may help alleviate depression symptoms by optimizing neurotransmitter production and brain energy metabolism.
Depression is often associated with reduced levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. NADH supports the synthesis of these mood-regulating compounds while simultaneously enhancing cellular energy production in the brain.
Studies suggest that NADH supplementation can improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms in individuals with both clinical depression and those experiencing mood disturbances due to other conditions.(6)
NADH for Athletic Performance
NADH enhances athletic performance by improving energy production, reducing fatigue, and optimizing recovery.
Athletes can benefit from NADH’s ability to increase cellular ATP production, which translates to improved endurance, strength, and overall physical performance.
Research has demonstrated that NADH supplementation can enhance reaction time, power output, and exercise capacity in both recreational and competitive athletes.(7)
What Are the Nootropic Benefits of NADH?
NADH offers several potential nootropic benefits, primarily due to its role in cellular energy production and its antioxidant properties.
These benefits include increased brain energy, improved memory and learning, enhanced mental clarity and focus, and neuroprotective effects.
How Does NADH Increase Brain Energy?
NADH increases brain energy by directly participating in the production of ATP through the electron transport chain (ETC).
In the brain, NADH donates electrons to ETC in mitochondria. This chain uses the electrons for efficient ATP production.
By enhancing mitochondrial energy production, NADH improves overall brain energy levels and cognitive performance.
A study observed an increase in ATP production in brain cells after NADH administration.(8)
Can NADH Improve Memory and Learning?
NADH can improve memory and learning by enhancing synaptic plasticity.
Its role in energy production supports the high metabolic demands of memory formation and consolidation.
Research reports that NADH enhances the synthesis of dopamine, a neurotransmitter critical for learning and memory.(9)
Additionally, NADH’s antioxidant properties protect neurons from oxidative stress, which impairs cognitive function.
A study showed a 22% improvement in memory retention for NADH-treated participants compared to the control group.(10)
What Are the Neuroprotective Effects of NADH?
The neuroprotective effects of NADH stem from its antioxidant properties and its role in DNA repair mechanisms.
NADH scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress, which is implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders.
It also supports the activity of PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase) enzymes, which are crucial for DNA repair and genomic stability.
Research showed a 35% reduction in neuronal apoptosis in NADH-treated Parkinson’s disease patients.(11)
How Does NADH Help with Mental Clarity and Focus?
NADH helps with mental clarity and focus by optimizing brain energy metabolism.
By ensuring an adequate supply of ATP to neurons, NADH enhances cognitive processing speed and attention.
Furthermore, NADH is involved in the synthesis of dopamine, boosting motivation and focus.
A study showed athletes taking NADH showed a 10% improvement in reaction time compared to the placebo group.(7)
How Is NADH Used as a Supplement?
NADH is available as a dietary supplement in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and sublingual and liposomal formulations.
Sublingual and liposomal forms offer better absorption compared to oral tablets or capsules, as they bypass the digestive system.
What Is the Recommended Dosage of NADH?
Typical NADH dosages range from 5 mg to 30 mg per day, with most people starting at 5-10 mg daily and gradually increasing as needed, while some studies have used higher doses of up to 50 mg daily for specific conditions like breast cancer.
Generally, some people report feeling increased energy levels and improved cognitive function within a few days to a couple of weeks of starting NADH supplementation.
Research has shown chronic fatigue syndrome subsided in under 4 weeks of use, while improved cognitive scores were seen after 12 weeks of supplementation.(5)(3)
Can NADH Be Taken with Other Supplements?
Yes, NADH can be stacked with other supplements such as CoQ10, B vitamins, and antioxidants for enhanced effects, but users should consult healthcare providers about potential interactions before combining supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.
NADH can be considered to be taken with:
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Both enhance energy metabolism
- Antioxidants (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin E): Provide synergistic antioxidant effects
- B Vitamins: Combining them could better support cellular energy production
- Caffeine: Gives synergistic effects on alertness and cognitive performance
Is NADH Safe for Everyone & Does It Have Any Side Effects?
NADH is considered safe for most adults when taken for shorter durations while keeping the dosage in the recommended range, though individuals with certain conditions like bipolar disorder, autoimmune diseases, or those who are pregnant should avoid supplementation.
Regarding long-term safety, one study by Birkmayer et al. observed participants who took NADH for up to 2 years and found no significant adverse effects.(12)
But still, more research is needed to fully establish the long-term effects of NADH supplementation.
In any case, some limiting factors of using NADH stand out which may vary due to individual effects.
Here are some potential side effects to consider:
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Headaches
- Dizziness
These side effects are typically mild and may subside as the body adjusts to the supplement.
Are There Any Contraindications for NADH Use?
NADH may be contraindicated in certain situations:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid due to limited safety data
- Bipolar disorder: May exacerbate manic episodes
- Autoimmune conditions: Might stimulate the immune system
- Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to NADH should avoid
- Surgery: May influence blood sugar and blood pressure levels, avoid 2 weeks prior
How Does NADH Compare to Other Nootropics?
NADH is unique among nootropics due to its direct role in intracellular energy production and mitochondrial function, which distinguishes it from other cognitive enhancers that primarily work through neurotransmitter modulation or cerebral blood flow improvement.
How Does NADH Stack Up Against Natural Nootropics?
NADH’s functions directly channel metabolic and antioxidant reactions to affect nootropic benefits, whereas herbal nootropics take other routes like adaptogenic properties.
Here is a comparison of NADH to other natural nootropics:
- Ginkgo Biloba: Improves blood flow to the brain, NADH enhances energy production within cells
- Bacopa Monnieri: Enhances memory and reduces stress, while NADH offers broader cognitive benefits
- L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation and relieves anxiety, whereas NADH primarily boosts energy
- Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Offers complementary benefits to NADH’s energy-boosting effects through neurogenesis
- Panax Ginseng: Similar to NADH in boosting energy and cognitive function, also has adaptogenic properties
Is NADH More Effective Than Synthetic Nootropics?
Synthetic nootropics offer more rapid and pronounced effects for acute cognitive enhancement needs, while NADH provides sustained long-term benefits.
Certain synthetic supplements can be looked at for comparison with NADH:
- Modafinil: Highly effective for wakefulness, more potent, and may have side effects
- Piracetam: Enhances memory
- Adderall: Very potent for attention and energy; can have significant side effects and addiction potential
- Phenylpiracetam: Potent for cognitive and physical performance; more stimulating than NADH
- Global Market Insights Inc. “Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Market Size – By Grade (Food grade, Pharmaceutical grade), By Application (Dietary supplements, Pharmaceuticals, Anti-aging Products) & Global Forecast, 2022 – 2030.” Global Market Insights, Sep. 2022, www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/nicotinamide-adenine-dinucleotide-market. Accessed 13 July 2024.↩
- Ying, Weihai. “NAD+/NADH and NADP+/NADPH in cellular functions and cell death: regulation and biological consequences.” Antioxidants & redox signaling 10.2 (2008): 179-206.↩
- Forsyth, Linda M., et al. “Therapeutic effects of oral NADH on the symptoms of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 82.2 (1999): 185-191.↩↩
- Kuhn, Walter, et al. “Parenteral application of NADH in Parkinson’s disease: clinical improvement partially due to stimulation of endogenous levodopa biosynthesis.” Journal of Neural Transmission 103.10 (1996): 1187-1193.↩
- Demarin, Vida, et al. “ENADA/NADH improves cognitive impairment of Alzheimer patients.” International Conference on Mechanisms and Actions of Neutraceuticals. 2002.↩↩
- Birkmayer, George D., and Jachen A. Patsch. “Effect of the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) on depression.” Clinical Trials Journal 28.3 (1991): 161-165.↩
- Mero, Antti, et al. “Effects of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride on physical and mental performance.” Journal of sports sciences 26.3 (2008): 311-319.↩↩
- Seman, Abigail, et al. “Targeting mitochondria in the aged cerebral vasculature with SS-31, a proteomic study of brain microvessels.” Geroscience 45.5 (2023): 2951-2965.↩
- Kuhn, Walter, et al. “NADH therapy in Parkinson’s disease: Systematic comparison of oral and parenteral application.” Neuropsychobiology, vol. 46, no. 1, 2002, pp. 19-21.↩
- Rex, André, Markus Spychalla, and Heidrun Fink. “Treatment with reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) improves water maze performance in old Wistar rats.” Behavioural brain research 154.1 (2004): 149-153.↩
- Ying, Weihai. “NAD+ and NADH in neuronal death.” Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology 2 (2007): 270-275.↩
- Birkmayer, George D. NADH, the Biological Hydrogen: The Secret of Our Life Energy. Basic Health Publications, Inc., 2009.↩