In this episode, Dr. Michael Greger examines the growing hype around NAD+ supplements and whether claims about age-related declines in NAD+ levels stand up to scientific scrutiny. He explores the historical and biological importance of NAD+, reviews the data on its relationship with aging, and highlights potential misinformation promoted by commercial interests.

Key Points:

While NAD+ plays a vital role in cellular health and energy metabolism, current scientific evidence does not consistently support the claim that its levels significantly decline with age. Dr. Greger emphasizes the need for more rigorous, unbiased research before embracing NAD+-boosting supplements as a proven anti-aging strategy.

• What is NAD+ and Why It Matters: NAD+ is a vital molecule required by over 500 enzymes, including those involved in energy production and the activity of sirtuins—proteins linked to longevity.
• Historical Significance: Discovered in yeast over a century ago, NAD+ research has earned four Nobel Prizes and continues to be central to understanding metabolism and aging.
• Food & Deficiency: NAD+ precursors are found in all foods, but some (like niacin in corn) require specific processing to be bioavailable. Pellagra, a deadly deficiency disease, was once widespread in the U.S.
• Does NAD+ Decline with Age?: The evidence is mixed. Some tissues show modest drops with age, but others don’t. Claims of dramatic NAD+ declines in middle age are exaggerated or inconsistent.
• Supplement Industry Hype: Prominent researchers promoting NAD+ boosters often have financial stakes in supplement companies, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and biased messaging.
• Scientific Uncertainty: The largest human studies show little or no consistent drop in NAD+ with age, especially in women—challenging the universal premise behind the anti-aging supplement trend.