Natural Uses of NADH

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrate, or NADH, is the active form of vitamin B-3 in the body. It is a type of enzyme that plays an important role in numerous cellular functions, such as helping your body turn glucose into energy. As a dietary supplement, NADH is sold for a variety of health-promoting purposes; however, you should consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking NADH.

Antioxidant Benefits

Free radical-induced damage to your cells and DNA are prevented by the antioxidant properties in NADH. In addition to preventing DNA damage, NADH is also purported to improve DNA repair and to have anti-aging properties. The antioxidants found in NADH also help protect against liver damage caused by toxins such as alcohol.

Uses

According to "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database," oral NADH supplements are used to improve mental clarity, alertness and concentration. They are also used to enhance physical energy, improve athletic performance, reduce jet lag and treat chronic fatigue syndrome. Supplements of NADH are also purported to enhance the immune system and to treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, more research needs to be done to confirm the efficacy of NADH supplements for these purposes.

Cardiovascular Health

Preliminary research suggests that NADH may help to prevent cardiovascular-related disorders. One placebo-controlled study done on rats, which was cited in the January 1998 edition of "Geriatric Nephrology and Urology," found that the rats that were supplemented with NADH for 10 weeks experienced a marked decrease in blood pressure. The rats taking the NADH also experienced a decrease in total cholesterol levels and low density lipoprotein, or LDL cholesterol levels. High blood pressure as well as high total and LDL cholesterol levels can cause or contribute to numerous cardiovascular maladies, and the study concluded that NADH supplements may help prevent such maladies.

Considerations

The recommended dose of NADH ranges from 2.5 to 5 mg daily for increased energy and general health enhancement, and from 10 to 15 mg daily for the therapeutic support of Alzheimer's disease, according to "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database." Taking NADH supplements for up to 12 weeks is generally considered safe, and no side effects from oral supplementation have been reported. However, the long-term safety of this supplement has yet to be fully evaluated in humans. Finally, NADH is contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women due to a lack of research done on its safety for this population.