NAD+ The hype, the truth, and the natural way

NAD+  Hypen, sanningen och den naturliga vägen

What is NAD⁺?

NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all cells of the body. It plays a central role in energy metabolism by helping mitochondria convert nutrients into energy. NAD⁺ is also needed for DNA repair and to keep inflammation under control.

So, we need NAD⁺ to live – but the body produces it itself, every day.

Why is everyone talking about NAD⁺?

NAD⁺ levels naturally decline with age. This has been linked to fatigue, poorer metabolism, and accelerated aging. Therefore, NAD⁺ supplements are often promoted as the solution to everything from lack of energy to longevity.

But that doesn't mean we need to take synthetic supplements. The body can increase its own NAD⁺ production naturally – if it gets the right support.

How to increase NAD⁺ naturally

1. Eat nutrients that build NAD⁺

The body makes NAD⁺ from vitamin B3 (niacin) and the amino acid tryptophan. You can find these in:

  • Walnuts
  • Green vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, and broccoli
  • Fish, eggs, and whole grains
  • Fermented foods such as sauerkraut and yogurt, which support gut flora

2. Exercise regularly

Exercise, especially endurance training such as walking, cycling, and swimming, stimulates mitochondria and increases NAD⁺ production.
You don't have to train hard – half an hour of movement a day goes a long way.

3. Sleep well and reduce stress

Lack of sleep and stress deplete NAD⁺ levels. Regular sleep and recovery are crucial for the cells' ability to repair themselves.

Here, Pharmacy Garden's Sleep Tea can be a natural support.
It contains herbs such as lemon balm, lavender, and passionflower – known for helping the body unwind, improving sleep quality, and thereby giving cells time to rebuild energy reserves.

4. Give your body rest with fasting

Intermittent fasting, or allowing 12–14 hours between dinner and breakfast, can increase NAD⁺ levels by activating the body's natural repair processes.
It's not about starving, but about giving the body time to recover.

Are NAD⁺ supplements necessary?

Supplements such as NMN and NR have received much attention, but research on humans is still limited.
Furthermore, NAD⁺ is poorly absorbed through the gut, which means the effect is often less than expected.

This means you often pay dearly for something the body can create itself – as long as you give it the right conditions.

Conclusion

NAD⁺ is crucial for energy, cell health, and slow aging, but synthetic supplements are rarely necessary.
You can increase NAD⁺ levels naturally by:

  • eating nutritious food (such as walnuts, fish, and green vegetables)
  • exercising regularly
  • sleeping well and reducing stress
  • letting your body rest through fasting

At Pharmacy Garden, we believe in supporting the body's natural balance, not replacing it.
Our Sleep Tea is an example of how nature can help the body recover – so your cells get the energy and vitality they already know how to create.

Questions and answers about NAD⁺

What does NAD⁺ do in the body?

NAD⁺ acts as an energy carrier that allows cells to convert nutrients into energy. It also plays a central role in DNA repair, cell renewal, and inflammation.

Are NAD⁺ supplements necessary?

For most people, they are not necessary. The body produces NAD⁺ itself if you eat nutritious food, sleep properly, exercise, and keep stress levels low.

What happens when NAD⁺ levels drop?

Low NAD⁺ levels can lead to fatigue, poorer metabolism, and accelerated cellular aging. It is a natural part of aging but can be slowed down with lifestyle and diet.

How can I increase NAD⁺ without supplements?

Eat foods rich in B3 and tryptophan, such as walnuts, fish, and green vegetables. Exercise regularly, sleep well, and try short periods of fasting to activate the body's own repair processes.

Are there natural products that support NAD⁺?

Yes. For example, walnuts and Pharmacy Garden's Sleep Tea. Sleep supports the body's recovery through better sleep and reduced stress – two of the most important factors for natural NAD⁺ production.