NADH is a vital coenzyme component that plays a decisive role both physically and mentally. In this blog post, we take a detailed look at the way NADH works on the body and the mind and how this molecule can contribute to more zest for life, energy and mental clarity.
NADH (H for hydrogen) is often also called coenzyme 1 and stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride. The coenzyme is present in all living cells. It is the biologically active form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and plays a central role in energy metabolism. NADH is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions necessary to convert nutrients into energy. It acts as an important electron donor that supports energy production in the mitochondria.
NADH is found in small quantities in foods such as meat, fish and yeast. Vegetables, fruits and dairy products also contain this coenzyme in low concentrations. However, the NADH content in food is so low that food intake alone is not usually sufficient to meet an increased need. In such cases, supplements may be a useful addition.
NADH is a key player in cellular energy production and also has a positive impact on mental health. Its importance ranges from energy production in cells to improvement in cognitive function and nervous system support.
NADH is directly involved in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy source in our cells. Through its involvement in the citrate cycle and respiratory chain in the mitochondria, NADH ensures that our cells are sufficiently energised. Both cognitive functions and the need for sleep benefit from this.
NADH helps to slow the aging process by acting as a strong antioxidant and by protecting the cells from damaging free radicals. An adequate supply of NADH can help slow cell ageing and improve the quality of life as we age.
Because foods often do not contain enough NADH, supplements can be a useful addition. NADH products are available in various pharmaceutical forms, with capsules being the most common form. These preparations usually contain a stabilised form of NADH, which can be easily absorbed by the body. This is because, in its original form, NADH is very unstable to light, oxygen and gastric acid exposure. The NADH preparation from BIOGENA is excellently protected against external influences by its protected microencapsulation.
The correct dosage and intake of NADH is crucial for its effect. It is recommended to take NADH on an empty stomach as it can be better absorbed by the body. The dosage varies depending on individual needs and health status, but is usually between 5 and 20 mg per day. A higher dose may be necessary for special health concerns, such as chronic fatigue or to support mental health.
NADH is a versatile molecule of great importance for both physical and mental health. Whether it’s for increasing energy, supporting mental performance or healthy ageing, NADH can make a valuable contribution to improving quality of life and well-being.
People suffering from certain health conditions should not take NADH without first consulting a doctor. This includes people with serious cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases or those who are taking medicines for blood thinning. Pregnant and breastfeeding women cannot be recommended to take NADH either, as the effects on the unborn child have not been sufficiently researched.
No, NADH is not vitamin B3 directly, but the biologically active form of it. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is converted in the body to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is then reduced to NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride). NADH is thus a coenzyme derived from vitamin B3 and plays a central role in the energy metabolism of the cells. While vitamin B3 is the precursor, NADH performs the function of energy production in the mitochondria.
Further reading:
Alegre, J. et al. 2010. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Rev Clin Esp. 210(6):284–288.
Birkmayer, G. D. et al. 2002. Stabilisiertes NADH (ENADAR) verbessert die durch Jetlag reduzierte Hirnleistung. Wien Med Wochenschr. 152(17–18):450–454.
Castro-Marrero, J. et al. 2015. Does Oral Coenzyme Q10 Plus NADH Supplementation Improve Fatigue and Biochemical Parameters in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Antioxid Redox Signal. 22(8):679–685.
Castro-Marrero, J. et al. 2021. Effect of Dietary Coenzyme Q10 Plus NADH Supplementation on Fatigue Perception and Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Nutrients. 13(8):2658.
Chini, C. C. S. et al. 2017. NAD and the aging process: Role in life, death and everything in between. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 455:62–74.
Christ, A. et al. 2019. Western Diet and the Immune System: An Inflammatory Connection. Immunity. 51(5):794–811.
Demarin, V. et al. 2004. Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease with stabilized oral nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide: a randomized, double-blind study. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 30(1):27–33.
Deutsche Gesellschaft für ME/CFS e.v. https://www.mecfs.de/was-ist-me-cfs/. Aufgerufen am 14.03.2022.
Gröber, U. Orthomolekulare Medizin. Ein Leitfaden für Apotheker und Ärzte. 2002.
Pearl, S. M. et al. 2000. Effects of NADH on dopamine release in rat striatum. Synapse. 36(2):95-101.
Ying, W. 2007. NAD+ and NADH in brain functions, brain diseases and brain aging. Front Biosci. 12:1863-88.
Ying, W. 2008. NAD+/NADH and NADP+/NADPH in cellular functions and cell death: regulation and biological consequences. Antioxid Redox Signal. 10(2):179-206.
