Cells throughout your body use NADH to make energy.
NADH is a coenzyme, which is a compound that helps other compounds calledenzymesperform chemical reactions.
While NADH is the reduced form of NAD, NAD+ (NAD plus) is the oxidized form.
Prostock-Studio / Getty Images
NADH and NAD+ are not the same but work together to carry out various reactions.
NADH has many important roles and functions.
However, the most notable function of NADH is in cellularmetabolism.
This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
How NADH Works in Your Body
All the cells in your body need energy to work properly.
They get this energy through a process involving molecules like NADH.
Your cells get the molecules they need to make energy from the food you eat.
These molecules can either be stored in cells or come from your blood.
Foods that may increase NADH production include meat, fish, and dairy.
Food sources oftryptophan(an amino acid) andniacin(vitamin B3) may also increase NADH levels.
Inside cells, chemical reactions turn food into energy.
ATP is crucial for cell activities and movement.
Your body constantly needs to make ATP.
NADH helps with this process.
During cellular metabolism, NADH molecules are made.
This is where large numbers of ATP are created.
Finally, NADH transfers its electrons to oxygen molecules in the mitochondria, making water.
This process generates energy in the form of three ATP molecules for each electron.
As previously stated, NADH is the reduced form of NAD, while NAD+ is the oxidized form.
NR is a precursor to NAD+, meaning it can be used to make NAD+.
NR supplementation is believed to increase NAD+ synthesis in the body, which may also indirectly increase NADH synthesis.
you might find NADH supplements online or in certain stores, like grocery and retail stores.
NADH supplements are also often sold in specialty supplement and nutrition shops.
NADH supplements come in many forms, including capsules, chewable tablets, lozenges, and soft gels.
In some cases, NADH may also be given via intravenous (IV) therapy.
Be sure to check the list of ingredients for any potential allergens.
Importantly, avoid NADH supplements if you are allergic to any of their ingredients.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have asevere allergic reaction(itching, hives, shortness of breath).
Potential Side Effects
In general, NADH supplements are thought to be safe and well-tolerated.
However, side effects may be possible when using NADH.
However, side effects are generally mild and short-lived.
Precautions
NADH supplements are thought to be safe for most people to use.
However, some people may need to limit or avoid NADH supplements.
There is not enough data to confirm whether NADH is safe to use duringpregnancyorlactation.
Therefore, NADH may need to be avoided during these periods until more research is available.
Interactions
Some supplements negatively interact with medications, other supplements, and/or herbs.
However, NADH is not known to interact with any medications or supplements, including herbs.
Summary
NADH is a chemical and coenzyme that occurs naturally in your body.
You need NADH to make energy.
NADH works closely with other molecules to carry out cellular metabolism and create ATP.
There are many types of NADH supplements on the market.
NADH should not be confused with NAD+, NR, or other forms of NAD.
NADH supplements are generally considered safe to use, but some people may need to take extra precautions.
Speak with a healthcare provider to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of NADH.
Scitable - by Nature Education.Cell energy and cell functions.
2024;326(4):E417-E427.
2023; 7: 165. doi:10.29011/2577-0748.100065.
2020;2020:8819627. doi:10.1155/2020/8819627
Britannica.Adenosine triphosphate.
doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2020.01.058
FDA.Drug interactions: what you should know.