7 Best NAD+ Supplements In 2024: Ranked & Reviewed By Experts

WHAT IS NAD+?

NAD+ stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a coenzyme crucial for cellular energy and metabolism. It plays a key role in maintaining mitochondrial function, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell. 

The more efficiently your mitochondria function, the better your body can perform essential tasks like energy production and waste removal. Simply put, NAD+ helps keep your cells running smoothly, and this efficiency affects nearly every system in your body.

While NAD+ is important, supplementing with it directly isn’t very effective. Studies suggest that NAD+ itself has low bioavailability, meaning your body struggles to absorb it (1). That’s why NAD+ precursors, like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside), are more effective. 

When you take NMN or NR, your body can convert them into NAD+, providing the cellular boost you’re looking for. As nutritionist Routhenstein explains, "This molecule is believed to aid in cellular rejuvenation and may have potential anti-aging effects."

Research shows that declining levels of NAD+ are linked to aging and diseases like cancer, cognitive decline, and metabolic disorders (2). 

By supplementing NAD+, you may slow some effects of aging and improve metabolic health. However, it’s essential to choose a product based on your body’s needs and how well you tolerate the supplement.

HOW DO NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS WORK?

NAD+ supplements provide the building blocks to increase NAD+ levels, which the body makes from tryptophan and vitamin B3. While forms like niacin and nicotinamide are common, nicotinamide riboside (NR) is converted into NAD+ more efficiently. However, it’s not a one-step process.

NMN VS. NR: WHICH IS BETTER?

NR converts to nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) before becoming NAD+. New research shows that NMN can enter cells directly, without needing to become NR first (3). 

This suggests that NMN may be a more efficient precursor, especially as we age, when our bodies seem to demand more NMN to maintain NAD+ levels.

HOW YOUR BODY ABSORBS NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS

Absorption methods vary. While capsules are common, liposomal technology or sublingual powders may offer faster absorption. 

For instance, a small dose of sublingual NMN may be absorbed more effectively than larger capsules. However, this can vary by individual, and you may need to try different forms.

SUPPORTING INGREDIENTS IN NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS

Many supplements include ingredients that enhance NAD+ production or offer complementary benefits:

• Trimethylglycine (TMG): Supports NAD+ metabolism.
  
  
• Trans-Resveratrol: Antioxidant that activates the Sirtuin system, aiding cellular health.
  
  
• Pterostilbene: A powerful antioxidant with anti-aging benefits.
  
  
• Apigenin: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
  
  

These ingredients can boost the overall effects of NAD+ supplements, offering more than just NAD+ production support.

THE 7 BEST NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS: OUR TOP PICKS

• Best Overall: NMN + Resveratrol
  
  

• Best for Aging: Tru Niagen NAD+ Supplement
  
  

• Best Multivitamin with NAD+: Thorne Advanced Nutrients
  
  

• Best for Variety: Renue By Science PURE NMN Powder
  
  

• Best With Antioxidants: Elysium Basis
  
  

• Best for Athletes: Thorne NiaCel 400
  
  

• Best High Dose: Tru Niagen Pro 1,000mg

1. Best Overall: NMN + RESVERATROL

NMN + Resveratrol offers a potent combination of ingredients that work together to support cellular energy and combat age-related declines in NAD+ levels. 

NMN, as a direct precursor to NAD+, plays a crucial role in energy production, while Resveratrol enhances sirtuin activity, promoting longevity and better overall cellular health. 

This supplement goes a step further by including BioPerine®, which improves the bioavailability of Resveratrol, making it more effective.

What sets this product apart is the high purity of its ingredients. Both NMN and Resveratrol are 98% pure, ensuring you receive the most benefit without any unnecessary fillers or additives. 

Each two-capsule serving contains 500mg of NMN and 500mg of Resveratrol, offering a powerful, cost-effective solution compared to other lower-quality options. It's a fantastic pick for those looking to support healthy aging, increase energy, and protect cellular health.

Key Ingredients:

• NMN (500mg)
  
  

• Resveratrol (500mg)
  
  

• BioPerine® (5mg)
  
  

Pros:

• High purity (98% NMN and Resveratrol)
  
  

• Includes BioPerine® for enhanced absorption
  
  

• Great for healthy aging and energy support
  
  

Cons:

• Premium price point

2. Best for Aging: Tru Niagen NAD+ Supplement

Tru Niagen is a simple and effective NAD+ supplement, known for its high-quality formulation using nicotinamide riboside chloride (NR) as the sole active ingredient. 

Crafted by Nobel Prize-winning scientists, Tru Niagen is backed by over 300 studies, ensuring both safety and efficacy. The supplement is also third-party tested, offering an extra layer of trustworthiness for consumers looking for a proven product.

With 300mg of NR per capsule, this supplement is an excellent starting point for those looking to raise their NAD+ levels. 

The flexibility in dosing makes it easy to adjust based on personal tolerance, and for those needing a higher dose, Tru Niagen Pro is a cost-effective option.

Key Ingredients:

• Nicotinamide Riboside (300mg)
  
  

Pros:

• Simple, high-quality formulation
  
  

• Third-party tested for purity
  
  

• Flexible dosing
  
  

Cons:

• More expensive compared to other brands

3. Best Multivitamin with NAD+: Thorne Advanced Nutrients

Thorne’s Advanced Nutrients supplement is a great choice for those wanting a comprehensive multivitamin that also includes a modest amount of nicotinamide riboside (NR). 

Along with 45mg of NR, it’s packed with essential nutrients for older adults, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium. This supplement also includes antioxidant ingredients like resveratrol and quercetin, which help protect cells from oxidative damage and support better aging.

One of the standout features is the eight-capsule serving size, which may seem like a lot, but it allows you to fine-tune your dosage based on individual needs. 

It's ideal for anyone looking for a multivitamin that supports overall health with a little added NAD+ boost.

Key Ingredients:

• Nicotinamide Riboside (45mg)
  
  

• Resveratrol
  
  

• Quercetin
  
  

• Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Calcium
  
  
  

Pros:

• Comprehensive multivitamin with NR
  
  

• Includes antioxidants and essential nutrients
  
  

• Trusted manufacturer
  
  

Cons:

• Large serving size (8 capsules)

4. Best for Variety: Renue By Science PURE NMN Powder

Renue By Science’s PURE NMN Powder is an excellent choice for those who want a highly customizable NAD+ supplement. This sublingual powder bypasses the digestive system, allowing for faster absorption, which is ideal for people looking for quicker results. 

The product comes in a 100g tub, providing long-lasting supply and flexibility for those who prefer to take higher doses.

Beyond just NMN, Renue By Science offers a wide variety of NAD+ optimizers, including ingredients like CoQ10, trans-resveratrol, and glutathione, allowing you to personalize your supplement regimen based on your needs. 

With third-party testing and a range of innovative delivery methods, Renue By Science is a top pick for anyone seeking variety and customization in their NAD+ supplements.

Key Ingredients:

• Pure NMN (100g)
  
  

• Additional NAD+ optimizers available (CoQ10, Resveratrol, Glutathione)
  
  

Pros:

• Quick absorption sublingual powder
  
  

• Wide variety of supplement options
  
  

• Third-party tested for purity
  
  

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

5. Best With Antioxidants: Elysium Basis

Elysium Basis is a unique NAD+ supplement that combines nicotinamide riboside (NR) with pterostilbene, a powerful antioxidant derived from blueberries. This blend is particularly effective for those looking to reduce oxidative stress while supporting NAD+ production.

 A clinical trial with 120 participants showed a 40% increase in NAD+ levels when taking the recommended dose of Basis.

One of the standout features of Elysium is its transparency in third-party testing. Every production batch is thoroughly tested, and you can view the specific results for the lot you purchase. 

While the subscription plans help lower the cost, it's essential to note that canceling can be a bit tricky, as the company’s policies are strict.

Key Ingredients:

• Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
  
  

• Pterostilbene
  
  

Pros:

• Includes potent antioxidant pterostilbene
  
  

• Clinical trials showed increased NAD+ levels
  
  

• Transparent third-party testing
  
  

Cons:

• Expensive cancellation policy

6. Best for Athletes: Thorne NiaCel 400

Thorne NiaCel 400 is a great NAD+ supplement for athletes, primarily because it’s NSF Certified for Sport, ensuring it’s been tested for contaminants and banned substances.

This certification makes it a trusted choice among professional athletes and sports organizations. Each serving contains 415mg of nicotinamide riboside (NR) along with betaine anhydrous, an amino acid known for enhancing exercise performance and endurance.

The high dose of NR in one capsule makes it an easy and efficient option for those looking to raise their NAD+ levels quickly. 

Additionally, the inclusion of betaine helps support muscle strength and reduces fatigue, making this supplement a perfect companion for active lifestyles.

Key Ingredients:

• Nicotinamide Riboside (415mg)
  
  

• Betaine Anhydrous
  
  

Pros:

• NSF Certified for Sport
  
  

• High NR dose in one capsule
  
  

• Supports exercise performance
  
  

Cons:

• Large capsule may be difficult to swallow

7. Best High Dose: Tru Niagen Pro 1,000mg

For those seeking a higher dosage of NAD+ support, Tru Niagen Pro delivers with its 1,000mg of nicotinamide riboside (NR) in a two-capsule serving. 

Like the regular Tru Niagen supplement, this version is also NSF Certified for Sport, making it a trusted choice for athletes and individuals who need significant NAD+ level boosts.

This higher dose has been shown to raise NAD+ levels by up to 142% within just two weeks, according to clinical studies. 

It also has the added benefit of reducing inflammation markers in the body, making it a top choice for those needing both a performance boost and anti-inflammatory support.

Key Ingredients:

• Nicotinamide Riboside (1,000mg)
  
  

Pros:

• High NR dosage (1,000mg)
  
  

• NSF Certified for Sport
  
  

• Clinically effective for raising NAD+ levels
  
  

Cons:

• May need to gradually increase dosage

HOW WE REVIEWED THE BEST NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS

To determine our top NAD+ supplement picks, we consulted two registered dietitians and carefully researched various products based on their recommendations. 

We focused on important factors like dosage, third-party testing, and ingredient quality to ensure that each supplement met the highest standards of safety and effectiveness. 

Here's what we took into consideration:

• Third-party testing: We included supplements that are third-party tested or made by reputable manufacturers to ensure the label’s accuracy.
  
  

• Dosage: We selected products with moderate or flexible dosages, allowing them to meet different health needs and tolerances.
  
  

• Other ingredients: Additional ingredients, like antioxidants or multivitamin components, were considered for their overall health benefits.
  
  

• Form: Various NAD+ precursors, like NMN and NR, were evaluated for their ability to support cellular health effectively.
  
  

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS?

NAD+ supplements have shown promising potential, although many studies focus on short-term effects, and further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits. Here are some key advantages that NAD+ supplements may offer:

PROMOTES OPTIMAL AGING

Aging occurs as a result of cellular and molecular damage over time. NAD+ is crucial for cellular repair and energy metabolism, and increasing NAD+ levels may help counteract the decline caused by factors like poor diet, sun exposure, and alcohol consumption (4). 

Registered dietitian Amidor explains, "Optimizing NAD+ production through supplementation can promote healthy aging."

SUPPORTS COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING

NAD+ plays an essential role in maintaining brain health. Early studies suggest that supplementing with NAD+ precursors could help slow down age-related cognitive decline (5). While more research is needed, the potential benefits for brain function are promising.

HELPS WITH ENERGY LEVELS

NAD+ is vital for turning food into energy at the cellular level. As Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, notes, "Increasing NAD+ levels can help combat fatigue and improve overall energy." NAD+ supplements may be particularly helpful for those experiencing low energy or chronic fatigue.

MAY IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Preliminary studies have shown that NAD+ supplements could have cardiovascular benefits by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. (6) 

Animal research has suggested that NAD+ can lower the risk of heart failure and improve blood vessel flexibility, but more human trials are necessary to validate these findings.

Here are some key insights from registered dietitians about NAD+ supplements:

• Types of NAD+ Supplements: NAD+ precursors like NMN and NR are effective and widely available options to increase NAD+ levels. Both are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
  
  
• Dosage Recommendations: Experts recommend starting with a moderate dose (around 300mg) and adjusting based on individual tolerance.
  
  
• Expected Results: In most cases, NAD+ levels can increase within two weeks of supplementation, but noticeable improvements in energy may take longer.
  
  
• Potential Side Effects: Mild digestive discomfort is possible with NAD+ supplements. If side effects occur, consult a healthcare professional.
  
  
• Consult a Professional: Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking NAD+ supplements, especially if you have a personal or family history of cancer.

ARE NAD+ SUPPLEMENTS SAFE?

NAD+ supplements appear to be safe and well-tolerated for short-term use, with minimal side effects such as mild flushing or digestive upset in rare cases. 

However, because there are no long-term studies on NAD+ supplements, it's important to approach them with care, particularly if you have specific health concerns.

Given the limited long-term research, it's best to consult a doctor before starting NAD+ supplements, particularly if you have underlying health conditions. Until more comprehensive studies are conducted, it's wise to use these supplements with caution.

CAN YOU GET NAD+ FROM FOOD?

While NAD+ itself isn’t found in large quantities in food, you can help your body produce it by consuming foods rich in niacin (vitamin B3). As Routhenstein explains, "Niacin serves as a precursor to NAD+ synthesis, meaning it’s necessary for the body to produce NAD+." Foods such as chicken, turkey, beef, tuna, and salmon are excellent sources of niacin.

CONCLUSION

NAD+ supplements can play a significant role in supporting healthy aging, improving energy, and promoting cognitive function. However, it's important to choose a high-quality supplement and consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new regimen. 

Explore NMN and NAD+ supplements to find the best fit for your health goals.

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FAQs

What is the best source of NAD?

Foods rich in nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) can help support NAD+ production. These include meat (especially liver), poultry, fish like tuna and salmon, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and fortified cereals.

Does NAD boost testosterone?

Yes, NAD+ plays a key role in the production of testosterone and also helps in the metabolism of alcohol.

Is NMN better than NAD?

NMN is absorbed more easily into the bloodstream, while NAD+ may be more effective for brain and mental health. NMN tends to have a stronger impact on physical health.