NAD+ Oral versus IV Injection
Boosting your NAD levels is rapidly gaining attention as a revolutionary preventive health strategy. From celebrities to wellness and anti-aging enthusiasts, people are touting NAD’s potential to slow and even reverse aspects of aging and improve energy, mental clarity, and overall vitality.
With studies and anecdotal evidence touting benefits ranging from boosting energy and cognitive function, combating aging, enhancing healing and recovery, improving sleep, supporting weight loss, and improving athletic performance [1], it’s no surprise this molecule has become a trending topic.
The buzz surrounding NAD supplementation often centers on two key methods: oral supplements and intramuscular injections. Both promise to restore declining NAD levels, but how do you know which one is right for you? Understanding the differences between these two delivery pathways is crucial for optimizing your health and getting the most out of your investment in NAD therapy.
Understanding NAD+ and its Importance
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a critical coenzyme, found in all living cells, that is involved in fundamental biological processes, namely metabolism, cell signaling, gene expression, DNA Repair, among others. It is essential to the creation of energy in the body, as well as the regulation of pivotal cellular processes. It is particularly crucial for the functioning of the mitochondria, the power plants in our cells that convert our food and oxygen into energy.
NAD+ has two general sets of reactions in the human body: helping turn nutrients into energy as a key player in metabolism and working as a helper molecule for proteins that regulate other cellular functions. These processes are incredibly important.
The problem is NAD+ levels decline significantly as we age leading to mitochondrial deterioration and impaired functioning. On average, NAD+ levels drop by 50% between the ages of 40 and 60 contributing to not only the physical signs of aging but also various age-related diseases. Underperforming or damaged mitochondria contribute to a number of age-related health conditions and thus it is these declining levels of NAD+ that drive the aging process.
One way NAD+ seems to exert its health-promoting properties is by helping sirtuins do their job. Sirtuins are a class of proteins that regulate cellular biological pathways, turn certain genes on and off, and help protect cells from age-related decline. For example, NAD+ increases the activity of one type of sirtuins, SIRT1, which has been found to induce the formation of new mitochondria and extend life span, as well as SIRT6, which helps maintain the length of telomeres (the end caps on DNA)—longer telomeres are associated with longevity. Sirtuins can only function in the presence of NAD+
What does Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) Do?
NAD acts as a key player in various cellular processes:
• Energy Production: NAD is essential for the production of cellular energy (ATP) through cellular respiration[2].
• DNA Repair: NAD plays a crucial role in DNA repair mechanisms, helping to protect cells from damage and prevent the accumulation of mutations[3].
• Gene Expression: NAD influences gene expression, which controls how genes are turned on and off within cells[4].
• Cellular Signaling: NAD acts as a signaling molecule, helping to regulate various cellular processes[4].
• Antioxidant Defense: NAD contributes to the body’s antioxidant defenses, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress[5].
How is NAD+ Therapy Administered?
To combat this decline, two primary methods of NAD+ supplementation have gained popularity: NAD+ Intravenous (IV) Therapy and Oral NAD+ Supplements. Both methods promise to restore declining NAD levels, but how do you know which one is right for you? Understanding the differences between these two delivery pathways is crucial for optimizing your health and getting the most out of your investment in NAD therapy.
Let’s take a deep dive into the differences between NAD+ oral vs. IV, so you can make an informed decision about the right NAD+ delivery method for your needs.
NAD+ Oral Supplementation
Oral NAD+ supplements are in fact combinations of precursors, that is the building blocks of NAD+. These supplements typically contain forms of vitamin B3 niacin, Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), and niacinamide, alongside tryptophan and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). These precursors are then converted into NAD+ within the body.
In particular, look for a liposomal NAD+ supplement, which is a liquid, and has higher absorption rates that may work better than standard capsules.
Pros of NAD+ Oral
A few of the benefits of NAD+ oral supplementation include:
• Convenience: Oral supplements are easy to take and can be integrated into daily routines.
• Non-Invasive: Oral supplements are a non-invasive and generally painless method.
• Options: Option of a liquid form or a capsule, so people can choose what they prefer.
• Affordability: It’s more affordable, so it can work on almost every budget.
• Oral supplements often contain additional compounds and nutrients that support the mitochondria and provide antioxidant support. They can be used in conjunction with intravenous injections as well as continued support after IV therapy has allowed you to restore your depleted levels.
Cons of NAD+ Oral
However, oral NAD+ delivery might not work for everyone, so consider these potential issues.
• Lower Bioavailability: Oral supplements may have lower bioavailability compared to injections, meaning less NAD+ may reach the bloodstream. (poor absorption from the gut into the bloodstream)
• Slower Onset of Action: Oral supplements may take longer to produce effects compared to injections. (it can take a month or more to start to see the benefits of oral supplements)
• Potential for Variability: The effectiveness of oral supplements can vary depending on individual factors such as gut health and metabolism.
Overall, when considering NAD+ oral vs IV therapy, the NAD+ oral route is best if you’re on a budget and the injection or IV route isn’t available.
NAD+ IV Therapy
NAD+ IV therapy means that the NAD+ is delivered intravenously to the bloodstream through an IV drip, or an injection. This method allows for sustained and high levels of NAD in the body. An IV requires a registered medical professional to administer the supplement, so you’ll need to go into a clinic or IV injection therapy center to receive it.
The main benefit of an NAD+ IV vs. oral is that you’ll feel the effects almost immediately. When you take a supplement, it has to be digested through the stomach, which takes longer for the body to be able to use those nutrients. With an IV, the nutrients go straight into your bloodstream, so the body can use them instantly.
The other major benefit is that a medical professional is present during the IV process. If any common side effects arise – including increased heart rate, stomach discomfort, or nausea – the administrator can slow down the drip so you remain comfortable for the duration of the IV.
Pros of NAD+ Intravenous Delivery
A few of the benefits of NAD+ IV supplementation include:
• Higher and Faster Absorption: Injections deliver higher and more immediate NAD levels in the bloodstream compared to oral supplements.
• Potentially More Effective: Some studies suggest that injections may be more effective than oral supplements for certain conditions[6].
• Targeted Delivery: Injections can be administered directly to specific areas of the body.
Cons of NAD+Intravenous Delivery
IV NAD+ delivery might not work for everyone, so consider these potential issues.
• Invasive Procedure: Injections require a needle stick, which may cause discomfort or pain.
• Risk of Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site.
• Requires Medical Supervision: Injections should be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
Consideration for Potential Risks and Side Effects
Injections:
Side effects: Minor side effects may include pain, redness, or bruising at the injection site. More serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions.
Oral Supplements:
Side effects: Generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects such as upset stomach, headache, or dizziness.
Important Note: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any NAD+ therapy, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Talk to our Nurse Practitioner at PLEIJ Salon + Spa
If you’re still unsure about which method of NAD+ supplementation is best for you, oral vs. IV injection, we invite you to schedule a consultation and chat with our Columbus, Ohio IV Therapy specialists at PLEIJ Salon + Salon. We offer multiple NAD+ treatments including IVs, and injections, and a number of oral supplements and can assist you in determining the best solution to meet your needs and budget.
Who Shouldn’t Take NAD?
Individuals with certain health conditions or those taking specific medications should consult with a healthcare provider before starting NAD therapy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with allergies to components in NAD formulations, may need to avoid it.
References
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