If you follow the science of healthy aging, you’ve probably seen NAD+ supplements everywhere lately. From researchers studying metabolic health to longevity experts focused on cognitive function and DNA repair, NAD+ has become one of the most discussed topics in cellular health.
But with so many dietary supplements claiming to boost energy, improve body composition, or support overall well-being, it can be hard to know which NAD+ supplement is actually worth taking.
This guide breaks down what NAD+ is, why levels decline with age, what the research really says, and how to choose a supplement backed by evidence—not hype.
What Is NAD+ and Why Does It Matter?
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Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme found in every living cell. It fuels cellular energy production, supports mitochondrial function, assists in DNA repair, and helps regulate hundreds of metabolic reactions.
In other words, NAD+ keeps your cells running efficiently—powering everything from muscle function and cardiovascular health to cognitive health, skin health, and long-term resilience.
But there’s a catch: NAD+ levels tend to naturally decline with age, contributing to reduced energy metabolism, impaired insulin sensitivity, changes in body composition, and a higher risk of age-related health conditions.
That’s why many people look to NAD+ supplements as a way to support healthy aging at the cellular level.
What Do NAD+ Supplements Actually Do?
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Most NAD+ supplements aim to increase the body’s NAD+ levels by providing precursor molecules that cells can convert into NAD+. Common forms include:
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)
Nicotinamide riboside (NR)
Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide)
Other emerging precursors being explored in early research and lab studies
A growing body of evidence—including randomized controlled trials, human health studies, correlational studies, and animal model studies—suggests potential health benefits, such as:
1. Improved Cellular Energy & Sustained Energy Levels
Studies in both animals and older adults show increases in cellular energy and mitochondrial efficiency.
2. Better Metabolic Health
Research indicates possible improvements in insulin sensitivity, reductions in arterial stiffness, and support for individuals with health problems like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
3. Cognitive Function & Brain Aging
Some early studies suggest NAD+ pathways may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases and support long-term cognitive function.
4. Muscle Composition & Exercise Capacity
Human and animal studies have observed increases in muscle recovery, endurance, and overall exercise capacity—though results vary and more research is needed before we can draw firm conclusions.
5. Skin Health & DNA Repair
Because NAD+ supports natural DNA repair processes, it plays a key role in protecting skin cells from damage associated with aging and oxidative stress.
While research is promising, scientists—including those at the National Institute on Aging—agree that more research is still needed to understand long-term safety, optimal dosing, and which forms work best for which individuals.
What to Look for in a High-Quality NAD+ Supplement
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Not all NAD+ supplements are created equal. Here’s how to evaluate them:
✔ Evidence-Based Formulation
Look for ingredients and doses supported by clinical trials and lab research—not just marketing claims.
✔ Clear Supplement Facts & Labeling
A high-quality product should clearly list dosage, two forms of active ingredients if included, and avoid unnecessary fillers. It should also be gluten-free, well-tolerated, and suitable for daily use unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.
✔ Independent Testing
Because the FDA does not regulate supplements the same way as drugs, third-party testing helps ensure the product is pure, contains what it claims, and is free from contaminants.
✔ Good Tolerability
Most NAD+ precursors are generally well tolerated, but high doses may cause stomach upset in some people. A well-designed supplement balances potency with comfort.
✔ A Brand That Understands the Aging Process
Longevity-focused companies with scientific advisory teams tend to invest more heavily in safety, efficacy, and quality control.
Where NAD+ by Tally Health Fits In
To help support healthy aging at the cellular level, NAD+ by Tally Health was formulated using cutting-edge research on NAD+, its precursor niacinamide, and its metabolic pathways. It’s designed to support energy production, DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and overall vitality—with a science-first approach and rigorous quality standards.
And because Tally Health is deeply committed to human health and aging research, NAD+ by Tally Health is part of a broader ecosystem of tools—including the TallyAge Test—that help users track, benchmark, and improve their biological aging journey.
How to Know If NAD+ Supplementation Is Right for You
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NAD+ supplements may be a good fit if you’re looking to support:
Natural energy levels
Metabolic and cardiovascular health
Cognitive performance
Mitochondrial and cellular health
Recovery, muscle function, or body composition
Skin vitality and DNA repair
Healthy aging markers
However, individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other supplements should always speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement
The Bottom Line: NAD+ Is Promising—But Quality Matters
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The potential benefits of NAD+ supplementation are exciting, and early studies point toward positive effects on energy metabolism, cardiovascular health, and the aging process. But because the supplement market is crowded, choosing a product backed by research, transparency, safety, and independent testing is essential.
A high-quality NAD+ supplement can be a powerful tool to support healthy aging—when it’s formulated correctly, dosed responsibly, and designed to work with the body’s natural systems.
If you’re exploring NAD+ supplements for the first time or upgrading from another brand, look for science-backed ingredients, clear supplement facts, and a company committed to long-term healthy aging and wellness.
References
López-Otín et al. Hallmarks of aging: An expanding universe. Cell 2023; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2022.11.001
Harrington et al. Mitochondria in health, disease, and aging. Physiol Rev 2023; https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00058.2021
Seo et al. New insights into the role of mitochondria in aging: mitochondrial dynamics and more. J Cell Sci 2010; https://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.070490
Rajman et al. Therapeutic Potential of NAD-Boosting Molecules: The In Vivo Evidence. Cell Metab 2018; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2018.02.011
Lautrup et al. NAD+ in Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cell Metab 2019; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2019.09.001
Sun et al. The Mitochondrial Basis of Aging. Mol Cell 2016; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcel.2016.01.028
What is NAD+ and why does it matter?
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme found in every living cell. It fuels cellular energy production, supports mitochondrial function, assists in DNA repair, and helps regulate hundreds of metabolic reactions. NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, contributing to reduced energy metabolism, impaired insulin sensitivity, changes in body composition, and a higher risk of age-related health conditions.
What do NAD+ supplements actually do?
Most NAD+ supplements aim to increase the body’s NAD+ levels by providing precursor molecules that cells can convert into NAD+. A growing body of evidence suggests potential health benefits, such as improved cellular energy, better metabolic health, cognitive function support, enhanced muscle recovery and exercise capacity, and support for skin health and DNA repair.
What should I look for in a high-quality NAD+ supplement?
You should look for evidence-based formulation, clear supplement facts and labeling, independent third-party testing, good tolerability, and a brand that understands the aging process. A high-quality product should clearly list dosage, include well-studied active ingredients, avoid unnecessary fillers, and demonstrate strong safety and quality control standards.
