You’ve probably heard celebrities like Joe Rogan and David Sinclair raving about NAD+ boosters – the “fountain of youth” supplements that claim to slow aging. But between the
hype and the hope, what’s the real science?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a critical molecule your cells need for energy, DNA repair, and survival. The problem? Its levels drop by 50% by age 50, leaving you more tired, frail, and prone to disease.
So, can boosting NAD+ actually extend your lifespan? Let’s cut through the marketing and look at the evidence.
Why NAD+ Matters for Longevity
NAD+ is like your cells’ battery life. It fuels:
✔ Sirtuins – “Longevity genes” that repair DNA.
✔ Mitochondria – Your cellular power plants.
✔ PARP enzymes – Critical for fixing damaged cells.
When NAD+ declines, your body ages faster. Studies show:
– Mice given NAD+ boosters lived 10-20% longer (Cell Metabolism).
– Low NAD+ is linked to Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and muscle loss (Nature Reviews).
How to Boost NAD+ Naturally (Before Supplements)
1. Fasting – Triggers sirtuins (try 16:8 intermittent fasting).
2. Exercise – HIIT workouts increase NAD+ by up to 30%.
3. Sunlight – Moderate UV exposure raises NAD+ in skin cells.
But for most people, supplements are the easiest way to see real changes.
Top 3 NAD+ Boosters (Backed by Science)
1. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) – The Safe Choice
– How it works: Converts directly into NAD+.
– Best for: Beginners (gentler on digestion than NMN).
– Brands: Tru Niagen (most researched), Mitolyn (includes extra antioxidants).
2. NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) – The Fast-Acting Option
– Pros: Absorbs quickly, popularized by David Sinclair.
– Cons: More expensive, FDA recently blocked NMN supplements (still available overseas).
– Brands: Liposomol NMN, GenuinePurity.
3. NAD+ Injections (For the Hardcore Biohackers)
– Used in clinics for rapid anti-aging effects.
– Downside: Expensive ($200+ per session), short-lived benefits.
Does Mitolyn Stand Out?
Mitolyn combines NR with PQQ and shilajit—a smart stack because:
– NR boosts NAD+ (studies show ~60% increase in 8 weeks).
– PQQ protects mitochondria from further damage.
– Shilajit enhances absorption (used in Ayurveda for centuries).
Compared to standalone NR brands, it’s a more comprehensive longevity formula.
The Catch (What Nobody Tells You)
NAD+ boosters aren’t a magic bullet. To see real anti-aging effects:
– Take consistently (3+ months minimum).
– Combine with lifestyle (fasting, exercise, sleep).
– Manage expectations – they slow aging, not reverse it.
Final Verdict: Should You Try Them?
If you’re over 35 and notice:
– Declining energy
– Slower recovery from workouts
– Worsening brain fog
…then NAD+ boosters like Mitolyn are worth a shot. Just don’t expect “Benjamin Button” results overnight.
Pro tip: Track biomarkers (like VO2 max, skin elasticity) to measure progress.