Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide – also known as NAD – may not be the most well-known part of our biology, but it’s certainly one of the most important parts of our metabolic process. NAD is a coenzyme that is vital in helping our body to generate energy, repair our DNA, and keep our cells healthy. The reason it’s not widely known is because research into NAD is still ongoing.
Energy and longevity
In the metabolic process, our body turns the food we eat into usable energy. This is achieved through countless processes – ones you’ve probably had to study to death at school – but NAD is an essential part.
During metabolic reactions, NAD is used to help produce ATP – the energy currency of our cells.
Because NAD declines with age, researchers are investigating its connections to aging and chronic diseases.
By supporting healthy NAD production for longer, our cellular repair functions may be enhanced into old age, keeping our brains and muscles working to higher capacities.
For children, NAD is equally important, as establishing a strong intake of NAD early – such as through kids multivitamins, like the ones at https://www.vitortho.co.uk/supplements/categories/multivitamins/kids-all-in-1/ – can help maintain processes and support growth from the outset.
Immune system
NAD isn’t just for repairing DNA and helping provide energy to our bodies – as if those two functions weren’t enough! It’s also essential for activating the enzymes that manage inflammation.
When our body responds to stress, illness, or damage, NAD plays a role in the response. With a diet that supports NAD production, scientists have found that our immune systems can be strengthened even further.
Although it’s naturally produced by our bodies, it’s important to ensure you get the right nutrients and vitamins. This can be achieved through supplements, or by incorporating specific foods into your diet.
Regardless of age – young or old – anyone can benefit from increased NAD production, which is why it’s important to establish habits early, and maintain them into old age. Even if the kids are super energetic, at least you’ll know they’re healthy!