NAD and the Anti-Aging Hype

 NAD and the Anti-Aging Hype: Can a Molecule Really Turn Back the Clock?

In the 10/05/25 issue of the San Francisco Chronicle, a fascinating article dives into one of the hottest wellness trends of 2025 — NAD, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It’s being promoted as an “anti-aging miracle” molecule — but what’s real, what’s hopeful, and what’s hype?

Here’s the break down.

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🔹 What Exactly Is NAD?

NAD is a coenzyme found in every cell of your body. It helps turn food into energy and supports DNA repair, immune function, and cellular communication. In short — NAD keeps your cells running smoothly.

But here’s the catch: as we age, our natural NAD levels decline sharply. That drop has been linked to fatigue, slower metabolism, and even the development of age-related diseases.

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🔹 Why Everyone’s Talking About Boosting NAD

The wellness industry now markets NAD supplements and IV infusions as a way to “recharge” your body. These treatments claim to:

• Revive mitochondria (your cells’ powerhouses)

• Enhance DNA repair

• Boost metabolism and energy

• Reduce inflammation

• Potentially slow aging

It sounds amazing — and some early animal studies support the theory. When researchers boosted NAD levels in mice, their metabolism, endurance, and cell repair improved.

However… what works in mice doesn’t always work in people.

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🔹 What the Science Says — and Doesn’t Say

Human studies are still in early stages. Some small trials found that NAD precursors — such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) — can raise NAD levels in the blood.

But there’s no solid proof yet that this translates to slower aging or longer life.

The Chronicle article also warns that NAD infusions, sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, lack strong scientific backing. Doctors say the claims often outpace the evidence.

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🔹 Proceed With Caution

Experts urge balance. Here’s what we know so far:

• NAD supplements are not FDA-approved for anti-aging.

• Long-term effects are still unknown.

• People with cancer, kidney, or metabolic conditions should consult a doctor before trying them.

• IV NAD treatments, while popular in wellness clinics, carry potential risks without proven benefits.

In short: NAD may hold promise, but it’s not a guaranteed path to eternal youth.

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🔹 The Smarter Way to Protect Your NAD

The best-proven ways to keep NAD levels healthy are surprisingly simple:

• Regular exercise

• Good sleep

• Healthy diet (especially one rich in antioxidants)

• Managing stress and inflammation

These natural habits support your NAD cycle far more safely — and cheaply — than any infusion.

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🔹 Final Thoughts

The San Francisco Chronicle article reminds us that NAD research is exciting but still unfolding. Scientists agree it’s a key player in aging biology — yet translating that into practical anti-aging treatments will take time and rigorous studies.

So for now, be curious, not credulous. NAD might one day help extend our “healthspan,” but for today, the real secret to longevity still looks a lot like common sense.

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Further Reading:
🔗 This “anti-aging” supplement is the hot new wellness craze — but should you take it? (San Francisco Chronicle)

Meanwhile, here are some photos of my bougainvillea blooms both from the Philippines ( CDM beach house) and my THD patio here in the US.

Orchids and Bougainvilleas in the Front Yard of Chateau Du Mer, Marinduque, Philippines  

Do you see one of my Pet Cats- That is Batman enjoying the nice autumn weather this week

My Bougainvillea at My Back Patio has been blooming for the last 4 months in my Patio/Catio here at THD, Walnut Creek, CA, USA 

Finally, A Personal Experience on Aging:

A week ago, I attended a party celebrating the 88th Birthday of a Friend- A Filipino American. There were several Filipino-American guests in their late 70's and late 80's. I was the only one over 90 years old. One of the guests told me, I look like I am 10 years younger than my biological age and asked me my secrets. I told her, I have regular whole body weekly massage,  play bridge and mahjong 5 days a week, watch out my diet and just have a positive attitude in general. In December, I will be 91 and hopefully still standing here on Planet Earth.     

And Last night's Supermoon rising over Yosemite National Park

While it looks otherworldly, this effect was achieved through a long-exposure composite and careful alignment of natural light. A breathtaking example of creative astrophotography meeting perfect timing.