What is NAD+ vs. NAD?: The Meaning and Difference and Why It Matters for Your Health
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You'll often encounter the terms NAD and NAD+. While they refer to the same fundamental molecule, understanding their distinct roles is key to grasping why supporting your body's NAD+ levels is so crucial.
This guide will clarify the difference between NAD and its active form, NAD+, and explain why precursors like NR are important for maintaining these vital coenzymes.
NAD vs. NAD+: The Active Form is Key
At its core, Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It's a vital player in hundreds of biological processes, most notably energy metabolism and DNA repair.[1]
However, NAD exists in two primary forms, and it's the balance between them that matters:
- NAD+ is the oxidized form. This is the "active" or "ready-to-work" state of the molecule. Think of it as the battery ready to accept a charge. NAD+ is essential for powering cellular processes, acting as a substrate for enzymes like Sirtuins and PARPs that are critical for DNA repair and longevity.[2]
- NADH is the reduced form. This is the "charged" state of the molecule. After NAD+ accepts electrons, it becomes NADH. NADH then travels to other parts of the cell to donate these electrons, fueling energy production (ATP) and other vital functions.
The critical point is that as we age, the pool of NAD+, the active form, tends to decline. This decline impacts cellular energy, repair mechanisms, and overall healthspan.[3]
Why Precursors Like NR Are Important
While NAD+ is the active form, it's challenging for the body to absorb NAD+ directly. Instead, our cells synthesize NAD+ from smaller molecules called precursors. These precursors are essentially the raw materials for NAD+ production.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is one such precursor. It's a form of Vitamin B3 that has been extensively researched for its ability to efficiently convert into NAD+ within the body. By providing NR, supplements aim to bypass natural metabolic limitations and boost cellular NAD+ levels.
The Next Generation: Liposomal Delivery with NAD+7
Understanding the science of precursors and the challenge of absorption is what led to the development of advanced delivery systems like liposomes.
Our NAD+7 formulas leverage cutting-edge CELLg8® Liposomal Delivery Technology. This system encapsulates NAD+ precursors (like NR) within protective lipid spheres. This shield protects the delicate molecules from degradation in the digestive system, allowing for significantly higher absorption and delivery to your cells.[4]
The result? A more efficient way to support your body's NAD+ production, helping you to:
- Boost Cellular Energy
- Support DNA Integrity
- Activate Longevity Pathways (Sirtuins)
- Promote a Resilient Immune System
- Aid Neuroprotection and Cognitive Health
By ensuring better absorption, NAD+7 helps you get the most out of these vital benefits.
Experience the Difference of Superior Absorption
Ready to support your cellular health with a scientifically advanced approach? Discover the power of liposomal delivery with our targeted NAD+7 formulas.
References
- Covarrubias, A. J., Perrone, R., Grozio, A., & Verdin, E. (2021). NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 22(2), 119–141.
- Imai, S. I., & Guarente, L. (2014). NAD+ and sirtuins in aging and disease. Trends in Cell Biology, 24(8), 464–471.
- Camacho-Pereira, J., Tarragó, M. G., Chini, C. C. S., et al. (2016). CD38 dictates age-related NAD decline and mitochondrial dysfunction through a SIRT3-dependent mechanism. Cell Metabolism, 23(6), 1127–1139.
- Akbarzadeh, A., Rezaei-Sadabady, R., Davaran, S., et al. (2013). Liposome: classification, preparation, and applications. Nanoscale Research Letters, 8(1), 102.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
