NAD+ decline and what you can do about it

As we age, the amount of energy we have starts to drop. This is in part due to declining NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) levels. NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body that plays a central role in energy production, DNA repair, and cellular metabolism. So when NAD+ levels decline—something that happens naturally as we get older—we start to feel more tired and less alert, our metabolism isn’t as efficient, and signs of aging become more visible.

While the natural effects of aging happen to everyone, there are steps we can take to slow down the decline of NAD+.

When does NAD+ decline begin?

Research shows that NAD+ levels start to decline as early as your late 20s to early 30s. The older you get, the more NAD+ levels decline; by middle age (40s–50s), NAD+ can drop by 50% or more compared to youth. This decline makes it harder to stay energized and recover, and contributes to inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction as well.

What causes the drop in NAD+?

Natural aging is the primary driver, due to increased activity of NAD+-consuming enzymes like CD38 and PARPs. But lifestyle factors can accelerate NAD+ depletion as well, including:

• Poor sleep
• High alcohol intake
• Diets high in ultra-processed foods and sugar
• Chronic stress
• Exposure to toxins
• Sedentary lifestyle

While aging can’t be avoided, lifestyle can play a big role in how we age, and how quickly. 

Lifestyle changes that can delay or slow down NAD+ depletion

Some lifestyle factors speed up NAD+ depletion, but others slow it down. If you want to support your body’s NAD+ production, these lifestyle changes can help: 

• Exercise: Increases NAD+ production and recycling, as well as slows down NAD+ depletion
• Intermittent fasting or caloric restriction: Puts the body in a temporary energy deficit, which promotes NAD+ production
• Better sleep: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, protecting the body’s store of NAD+
• Low alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol burns through NAD+; reducing alcohol intake reduces NAD+ depletion 
• Cold/heat exposure (i.e., saunas/cold plunges): Mild hormetic stress—aka, a small amount of stress that’s actually good for you—can help make your body more resilient, stimulating NAD+ production 

While everyone will experience a decline in NAD+ levels, how quickly that decline happens is highly influenced by how we live. In short, we have more control over how we age than we might think.

Supporting NAD+ through supplementation or therapy

While lifestyle makes a difference, it’s often not enough to fully restore NAD+ levels, especially once you hit middle age. That’s where NAD+ therapies and supplementations come in. These can help replenish NAD+ pools more directly and consistently, especially for those over 30 or with high-stress lifestyles. 

Shed’s NAD+ offerings 

When combined with a healthy lifestyle, Shed’s NAD+ medications and supplements may help support healthy aging, boost energy levels, and support cognitive function. 

NAD+ Injections

NAD+ Injections are the fastest and most efficient way to get NAD+ into your bloodstream. These injections should be taken three times a week. 

NAD+ Nasal Spray

NAD+ Nasal Spray isn’t absorbed quite as quickly as injections, but is still an effective way to increase your NAD+ levels, and is especially appealing to those who want to avoid needles. Shed’s NAD+ nasal spray should be used daily.

Which option is right for you?

If you aren’t sure which option is best for you, Shed offers a provider network to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and needs, whether it’s injections, nasal spray, or a supplement like NAD+ Vitality Complex. Visit tryshed.com today to learn more and to sign up for a free consultation.

Conclusion: Aging is inevitable—NAD+ decline doesn’t have to be

Aging can’t be avoided, but our daily habits can significantly affect how our bodies respond to it—and how you feel as you get older. For those who want to maintain energy, clarity, and cellular health as they age, combining healthy lifestyle habits with targeted NAD+ support can make a powerful difference, helping you get back to living the life you deserve.

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