NAD+ boosters are supplements designed to increase nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels, a vital coenzyme involved in key cellular processes such as DNA repair, energy metabolism, and stress responses. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, supplements containing precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) aim to restore these levels, with proponents suggesting benefits like improved energy, cognitive function, and longevity. In this episode, Matt and Nick review a 2022 study examining NMN’s impact on VO2 max in amateur runners. They discuss the study’s findings, limitations, and whether NMN enhances endurance, questioning the claims made by supplement sellers.

Key Points:

A 2022 study on NMN supplementation found no significant improvement in VO2 max, though ventilatory threshold (VT1) showed some improvement. During the discussion, Matt and Nick raise doubts about NMN’s effectiveness in improving exercise performance.

• NMN Supplement and VO2 Max: The podcast explores a 2022 study on the effects of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) supplementation on VO2 max, a measure of aerobic capacity, in amateur runners.
• NMN and NAD+ Boosters: NMN is a precursor to NAD+, a vital coenzyme that supports cellular energy and DNA repair. Supplement sellers, including Greg Doucette, claim NMN can enhance endurance and exercise performance.
• Study Design: The study involved 48 participants split into groups receiving various NMN doses or a placebo over six weeks, with a focus on VO2 max improvements.
• Results: The study found no statistically significant effect of NMN on VO2 max. However, there were improvements in ventilatory threshold (VT1), which could benefit endurance in longer activities.
• Study Limitations: Small sample size, lack of proper lactate measurement, and incomplete performance data limited the study's conclusions, making it difficult to validate supplement claims.
• Skepticism: Despite some positive results, the podcast hosts express doubt over the effectiveness of NMN in enhancing exercise performance, noting the high cost of supplements relative to their potential benefits.