NAD+: The Hidden Anti-Aging Hero in Downtown Chicago IL
NAD+: The Hidden Anti-Aging Hero in Downtown Chicago IL
Are you eating a breakfast right now, or maybe drinking coffee?
With each bite or sip, your body goes through an incredible process to turn this food into usable energy. We break down carbohydrates into a single monosaccharide – glucose.
Once it is absorbed through the small intestine and into our cells, we begin the processes of glycolysis and the Krebs cycle (don’t panic – this is not your college BioChem test!).
As we breakdown glucose, there’s a small, hidden hero waiting on the sideline.
Our hero is none other than NAD+, a coenzyme that collects some of the energy from these reactions so we can finally convert it to ATP – the high-energy molecule our cells use to fuel our actions.
Our delicious breakfast or coffee wouldn’t be able to fuel our bodies and kickstart our day without NAD+.
All this talk about food is making me hungry! After I grab an apple, we can dive a little more in-depth into why you should care about NAD+.
CONCEPT: NAD+
NAD+ is the active coenzyme form of Vitamin B3 and is a molecule that is vital for various physiological functions within our bodies. It acts as a coenzyme in numerous metabolic reactions, playing a central role in extracting energy from the food we consume.
Beyond its energy-producing role, NAD+ is closely linked to the process of aging. Research has shown that as we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decline, contributing to age-related health issues such as decreased metabolism, reduced cellular repair, and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases.
Maintaining healthy NAD+ levels is essential for:
- Enhancing the body's natural repair mechanisms
- Mitigating chemical stress and inflammation
- Boosting cognitive function
- Promoting a healthier metabolism
This fascinating coenzyme can actually help to support our longevity and overall well-being. Let’s take a look at a few ways we can optimize on NAD+!
ACTION 1: REGULAR EXERCISE
Physical activity is another powerful tool in the quest to boost NAD+. Exercise has been shown to stimulate the production of NAD+ in the body, contributing to its numerous health benefits.
Try to aim for regular workouts, which could include:
- Cardiovascular activity such as running or cycling
- Resistance Training, including weightlifting and bodyweight exercises
- Yoga, which is a combination of bodyweight resistance training and stretching
Exercise not only supports energy production but also enhances cellular repair processes, further promoting healthy aging.
Incorporate exercise into your daily routine to experience the dual benefits of increased NAD+ levels and improved overall health.
ACTION 2: ADD NAD+ TO YOUR DIET
One effective way to boost your NAD+ levels is through dietary choices. Certain foods are rich in NAD+ precursors, which your body can use to synthesize NAD+. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help support your NAD+ levels naturally. Some NAD+-boosting foods include:
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): Found in foods like poultry, fish, and nuts, niacin is a direct precursor to NAD+.
- Tryptophan: This amino acid, found in turkey, chicken, and tofu, can also be converted into NAD+.
- NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide): While not readily available in food, NMN supplements have gained popularity for their ability to directly increase NAD+ levels.
If you are interested in supplementation, we have several products in the office that are guaranteed to raise your intracellular levels of NAD+, including IV therapy. Here’s the process:
- Step 1: Test to see if you have low NAD+.
- Step 2: If needed, offer IV therapy or supplements suitable for you (Supplements are most effective).
- Step 3: Re-test and ensure your NAD+ levels have increased to recommended levels!
By making conscious choices in your diet and incorporating these NAD+-supporting nutrients, you can contribute to maintaining healthy NAD+ levels throughout your life.
Fun Fact In Downtown Chicago IL
Incorporating these two actions into your lifestyle—adopting a NAD+-rich diet and engaging in regular exercise—can help you maintain higher NAD+ levels for your cells to use every day while promoting healthy aging.
This week I’m focusing on getting back into my cardiovascular routine – running and biking. Wish me luck – I'll need it!
Gotta run!
- Dr. Peter Schulz
OFFICE HOURS
Monday
8:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
8:00am - 6:00pm
Wednesday
9:00am - 4:30pm
Thursday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday & Sunday
Closed
Biolyfe
powered by Legacy Lyfe Labs
333 N Michigan Ave #901
Chicago, IL 60601