What Is NAD+ and Why Does It Matter for Aging and Wellness?
NAD+, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It’s essential for a wide range of biological processes, including energy metabolism, DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and cell signaling. In short, NAD+ helps your body convert food into energy and keep cells functioning optimally.
But here's the challenge: NAD+ levels naturally decline with age. This decrease has been linked to fatigue, memory loss, inflammation, metabolic disorders, and a reduced ability to repair cellular damage. Replenishing NAD+ is emerging as a key strategy in functional and anti-aging medicine.
Research has shown that increasing NAD+ levels may:
- Support cellular energy production and metabolic efficiency
- Improve cognitive function and memory
- Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
- Enhance detoxification and immune response
- Potentially extend healthspan (the healthy years of life)
At Valley Health & Wellness, we offer both oral NAD+ supplements and IV NAD+ infusions to support these goals.
How to Replenish NAD+: Oral Supplements vs. IV Therapy
There are two primary ways to increase NAD+ in the body: through oral supplements and through intravenous (IV) therapy. Each method has its own strengths depending on your health goals, lifestyle, and how quickly you want to see results.
1. Oral NAD+ Supplements
Oral supplements typically use NAD+ precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). These compounds are metabolized by the body and converted into NAD+ over time.
Pros:
- Convenient and easy to take daily
- Safe and well-tolerated
- Ideal for long-term support of cellular health and brain function
Cons:
- Lower bioavailability (only a portion is absorbed into the bloodstream)
- Slower onset of results—benefits accumulate over weeks or months
Oral supplementation is best suited for those seeking to support longevity, improve energy levels, and maintain metabolic health on an ongoing basis.
2. NAD+ IV Infusions
IV NAD+ therapy involves administering NAD+ directly into the bloodstream. This bypasses the digestive system and results in significantly higher absorption and faster effects.
Pros:
- Immediate and noticeable results in many patients
- Increased mental clarity, focus, and physical energy
- Used in therapeutic settings for addiction recovery, chronic fatigue, and burnout
- Supports rapid detoxification and cellular repair
Cons:
- Requires a medical setting and supervision
- Less convenient than oral supplements
- Higher cost
For individuals seeking fast results—whether for cognitive performance, stress recovery, or therapeutic intervention—NAD+ IV therapy offers a powerful option.
Quick Comparison: Oral NAD+ vs. IV NAD+
Absorption
- Oral Supplements: Moderate (via digestion)
- IV Infusions: High (direct to bloodstream)
Onset of Benefits
- Oral Supplements: Gradual, cumulative
- IV Infusions: Immediate to short-term
Convenience
- Oral Supplements: Easy daily routine
- IV Infusions: Requires clinic visit
Cost
- Oral Supplements: More affordable
- IV Infusions: Higher investment
Best For
- Oral Supplements: Long-term health and aging support
- IV Infusions: Fast energy, recovery, and mental clarity
Which Option Is Right for You?
The decision to use oral NAD+ supplements or IV infusions comes down to your personal goals and lifestyle:
- If you're looking for daily, low-maintenance support for long-term health, energy, and prevention, oral supplements are a smart, affordable solution.
- If you're recovering from burnout, prepping for a mentally demanding season, or want quick results, IV NAD+ therapy may offer a more immediate impact.
Many of our patients at Valley Health & Wellness use both options—starting with an intensive round of IV infusions, then transitioning to oral supplements for ongoing maintenance.
The Valley Health & Wellness Approach
At Valley Health & Wellness, we believe in treating the root cause—not just the symptoms. Our personalized approach to metabolic and anti-aging health includes physician-guided support, high-quality NAD+ protocols, and a full suite of functional therapies to help you feel energized, sharp, and in control of your health.
If you're interested in exploring how NAD+ can support your wellness journey, contact our team to schedule a consultation. We'll help you determine which method—and what dosage—is right for your body and goals.
