NADH: benefits, dosage, contraindications

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NADH, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrate, is a coenzyme present in all living cells. It plays a crucial role in energy production, functioning as an electron carrier in the respiratory chain. NADH is involved in more than a thousand metabolic reactions, making it an essential pivot for proper cellular function. Discovered in the early decades of the 20th century, NADH has since been recognized for its potential therapeutic applications, notably in the treatment of chronic and degenerative diseases. Its ability to increase cellular energy levels makes it a promising candidate for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. In the clinic, NADH has shown beneficial results in improving cardiovascular health by increasing the energy of heart cells, reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, essential for mental well-being. Clinical studies have also explored its effectiveness as a powerful antioxidant, capable of repairing damaged DNA and revitalizing cells, thus offering prospects in cancer prevention and management.

Other name(s) 

Coenzyme 1

Scientific name(s)

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Hydrate

Family or group: 

Pseudo-vitamins


Indications

Rating methodology

EFSA approval.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, including a significant number of patients (>100) with consistently positive outcomes for the indication.
Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, and including a significant number of patients (>100) with positive outcomes for the indication.
One or more randomized studies or multiple cohorts or epidemiological studies with positive outcomes for the indication.
Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or contradictory.
Lack of clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.


Fatigue
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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition characterized by intense and persistent fatigue, affecting various body systems. Research suggests that NADH may be beneficial in treating chronic fatigue syndrome due to its role in cellular energy production. A study showed that NADH supplementation at 10 mg per day for 4 weeks improved symptoms in 31% of participants, with continued beneficial effects after 6 months of treatment. Other studies indicate that NADH, often combined with coenzyme Q10, can significantly reduce fatigue and improve quality of life and sleep in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Posologie

posologieOral

posologie10 mg

duration6 - months


Synergies


Parkinson's disease
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Parkinson's disease, marked by tremors, stiffness, and immobility, has seen promising NADH applications. Clinical studies on NADH show varied results: a small double-blind study showed no significant improvement with NADH administered intravenously and intramuscularly. However, open-label studies report symptom improvements in some patients, with a reduction in disability and better response to the drug levodopa. These results, while encouraging, require further research to confirm NADH's effectiveness in treating Parkinson's.

Posologie

posologieIntravenous, oral

posologie5 - 10 mg


Sports performance
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NADH could be beneficial for sports performance in several studies. For example, observational studies of high-level cyclists who consumed 10 mg of NADH daily for a month showed a notable improvement in oxygen consumption and a reduction in blood lactate levels, leading to a decrease in reaction time. In another independent study conducted in Germany, athletes who took 30 mg of NADH per day for four weeks experienced better oxygen use and a significant reduction in blood lactate after aerobic exercise. These effects are attributed to the improved bioavailability of ATP and nitric oxide in cells, thus facilitating greater endurance and better overall performance.

Posologie

posologieOral

posologie10 - 20 mg

duration1 - month


Properties


Bioenergetic

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NADH is an essential intermediate in cellular processes that generate energy from glucose in the form of ATP. Higher NADH intake in cells leads to more ATP. This means the cell has more energy at its disposal, functions better, and lives longer.

Usages associés

Fatigue, Sports performance

Neurological

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NADH stimulates dopamine production in nerve cells, significantly increasing its levels in the brain and blood, which positively impacts libido, appetite, and cell regeneration. Studies confirm a dopamine increase of up to 50% in athletes after supplementation with 5 mg per day..

Usages associés

Parkinson's disease

Antioxidant

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NADH is both the primary coenzyme that triggers redox reactions during cellular metabolism. It's a powerful antioxidant.

Usages associés

Sports performance

Cardiovascular

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NADH significantly reduces total cholesterol and LDL levels by up to 30% in rats and lowers blood pressure by 10% on average in humans after 12 weeks of daily 5 mg supplementation. This molecule also promotes cardiovascular health by strengthening heart muscles and dilating blood vessels, thanks to the increased production of nitric oxide (NO). This mechanism improves blood circulation and could benefit conditions like angina, asthma, and migraines.


Safety dosage

Adult from 18 years: 5 mg - 20 mg

NADH is most often used at doses of 5 to 10 mg per day for a period of up to 24 months. Doses up to 20 mg per day for eight weeks have also been used.