What is an NAD+ Shot?

What Does NAD+ Do?

NAD+ is a conenzyme, which means it helps enzymes complete reactions.

Enzymes are proteins that trigger chemical processes in the body. These reactions range from turning food into energy to building and converting hormones.

When a coenzyme binds to an enzyme, it helps facilitate these reactions.

NAD+ and the Metabolism

A chief function of NAD+ is to support the metabolism. It helps the mitochondria in the cells turn nutrients into energy.

The metabolic processes that NAD+ helps with include:

• Glycolysis – This is the process of breaking glucose, or sugar, down into energy.
• Beta-oxidation – This metabolic process breaks fatty acids down into energy. This type of energy is crucial when blood sugar is low, or when you exercise or fast.
• Oxidative phosphorylation – This process oxidizes (adds oxygen to) nutrients to turn them into ATP, which is another crucial energy source.

As we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decrease. This can lead to mitochondria dysfunction, which in turn can lead to fatigue, lowered fitness endurance, low blood sugar, weight gain, and conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Supplementing NAD+ may ease these symptoms and help cells utilize energy.

NAD+ and DNA Repair

Scientific studies have found evidence that NAD+ plays a part in cell repair, gene expression, and more.

NAD+ does this by acting upon sirtuins, which are proteins responsible for many biological processes. Sirtuins support DNA repair, shield DNA from damage, support DNA growth, and more.

The breakdown of DNA is considered a chief cause of aging. It can lead to:

• DNA damage buildup because the body can no longer repair DNA properly. This can cause genetic mutations that may lead to conditions like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, IBS, and others. These DNA changes are called somatic mutations.
• Halting of cell repair and production while repairing DNA. This can lead to cellular senescence, or a biological decrease in function as humans age. Senescent cells can accumulate and cause worsening tissue damage and other issues.
• Inflammation caused by DNA damage. This inflammation can lead to body pain, changes in mood, digestive issues, weight fluctuations, insulin resistance, joint pain, and more.
• Decreased stem cell function. Stem cells have the ability to develop into other types of cells. This is helpful in healing, maintenance, and repair. If stem cells become depleted, the body cannot maintain or repair itself as effectively.

While more studies are required to understand the effectiveness of NAD+ supplementation for anti-aging, there have been promising results in its ability to positively impact DNA repair.

NAD+ and Mental Acuity

Energy metabolism also affects the brain. When NAD+ levels decrease and interrupt the metabolic process, it can lead to symptoms of aging including:

• Cognitive decline
• Memory issues
• Loss of mental acuity

A body of research generally supports the idea of utilizing NAD+ supplements and its precursors to address cognitive decline, especially for disease like Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries.

Animal trials and a small number of human trials have shown potential benefit in supplementing  NAD+ and its precursors. However, more research is needed to fully understand the connection between NAD+ supplementation and mental acuity.

According to the National Library of Medicine’s clinical trials database, there are several studies planned or in process to explore the efficacy of NAD+ supplementation.

What are NAD+ Shots?

NAD+ shots are just that: injections that provide your body with more NAD+.

Injectable supplementation is very effective, because you don’t lose any of the nutrient to the digestive process. All of the medication goes into the bloodstream for the body to use.

Defy Medical offers access to self-administered NAD+ injections, along with the materials and instructions needed to administer them.

NAD+ Cream

NAD+ is also available as a topical cream. The supplement is absorbed over time by the skin and delivered to the bloodstream.

While injections are considered a more effective delivery system, NAD+ cream is an option for patients who prefer to avoid injections.

Qualifying patients can access NAD+ cream and application instructions through Defy Medical.

NAD+ Nasal Spray

NAD+ is also available as a nasal spray.

With this application method, the supplement is sprayed into the nasal cavity. From there, it’s absorbed by the nasal mucosa (the inner layer of the nose).

With nasal absorption, the medication reaches the bloodstream without having to go through the digestive tract. Nasal application also allows for quicker absorption of the supplement.

Defy Medical offers access to NAD+ nasal spray for qualifying patients.