Nootropic profile
NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
NADH is the reduced, active form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and a critical coenzyme in cellular energy production. It is essential for ATP synthesis in mitochondria and supports dopamine production, making it valuable for combating mental fatigue, enhancing alertness, and supporting motivation.
Best for
Educational only: this is not medical advice. Always check with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
What is NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)?
NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide + Hydrogen) is the biologically active, reduced form of NAD+, one of the most important coenzymes in human metabolism.
What it does for you
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How to take it
- Typical dose: 5-10 mg per day for general cognitive support and energy
- For mental fatigue: 10-20 mg per day
- Chronic fatigue research: Studies have used 5-20 mg daily with positive results
- Timing: Best taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food
- Sublingual forms: May offer better absorption by bypassing stomach acid degradation
Watch out for
- Side effects: Generally well tolerated. Occasional reports of mild nausea, headache, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Overstimulation: Some individuals may experience jitteriness, anxiety, or insomnia if taken later in the day. Morning dosing is recommended.
- Drug interactions: No major drug interactions reported, but those on medications for Parkinson's disease (which affect dopamine) should consult a doctor.
- Pregnancy: Insufficient research on supplemental NADH during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare provider.
- Storage: NADH degrades rapidly when exposed to heat, light, or moisture. Quality and bioavailability vary significantly between products.
The science, if you're curious.
- NADH is the primary electron donor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, directly driving oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis - the...
- NADH stimulates tyrosine hydroxylase activity, increasing the conversion of tyrosine to L-DOPA, the immediate precursor to dopamine. This supports...
- NADH acts as a potent intracellular antioxidant, directly scavenging free radicals and regenerating other antioxidants such as glutathione and coenzyme Q10.
- NAD+ (the oxidised form, in equilibrium with NADH) activates sirtuins and PARP enzymes involved in DNA repair, supporting genomic integrity in neurons.
Where to find it
- Red meat: One of the richest dietary sources of NADH precursors
- Poultry: Chicken and turkey contain moderate amounts
- Fish: Particularly tuna and salmon
- Mushrooms: Contain small amounts of NADH
- Yeast: Brewer's yeast and nutritional yeast are notable sources
- Supplements: Available as enteric-coated tablets, sublingual lozenges, and capsules. Stabilised forms (such as PANMOL NADH) are preferred for shelf stability and bioavailability.
Frequently asked
NADH is the reduced, active form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and a critical coenzyme in cellular energy production. It is essential for ATP synthesis in mitochondria and supports dopamine production, making it valuable for combating mental fatigue, enhancing alertness, and supporting motivation.
The main benefits people report from NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) are: Cognitive Enhancement, Energy, Focus, Longevity, Mood, Motivation.
Typical dose: 5-10 mg per day for general cognitive support and energyFor mental fatigue: 10-20 mg per dayChronic fatigue research: Studies have used 5-20 mg daily with positive resultsTiming: Best taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before foodSublingual forms:...
Side effects: Generally well tolerated. Occasional reports of mild nausea, headache, or gastrointestinal discomfort.Overstimulation: Some individuals may experience jitteriness, anxiety, or insomnia if taken later in the day. Morning dosing is recommended.Drug interactions: No major drug interaction...
NADH is the primary electron donor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, directly driving oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis - the...NADH stimulates tyrosine hydroxylase activity, increasing the conversion of tyrosine to L-DOPA, the immediate precursor to dopamine. This supports......
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