NAD, NAC, NMN, NR, Glutathione... What are the differences?

Summary

Dr. Payam Hakimi, a functional medicine doctor, discusses the differences and roles of NAD, NAC, NMN, and NR in the body. NAC, a precursor to glutathione, is used for detoxification and lung health, while NAD, crucial for cellular metabolism and energy, decreases with age. NMN and NR are precursors that help increase NAD levels, supporting anti-aging and cellular health. The video also touches on liver detoxification and the importance of a clean digestive system for overall health.

Takeaways

• 🧬 NAC (N-acetylcysteine) and NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) are distinct molecules with different functions in the body.
• 💊 NAC is used in medical settings for various purposes, including treatment for acetaminophen poisoning, lung conditions, and liver detoxification.
• 🌿 NAC serves as a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, and plays a crucial role in liver detoxification processes.
• 🔋 NAD is a cofactor in cellular metabolism, involved in energy production, DNA repair, and immune regulation, and its levels decrease with age.
• 🏋️‍♂️ NAD is also linked to the nervous system and has been studied for its potential benefits in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and addiction recovery.
• 💊 NAD can be increased in the body through supplementation with its precursors like NR (Nicotinamide riboside) and NMN (Nicotinamide mononucleotide), or through IV therapy.
• 🥗 Natural ways to boost NAD include reducing inflammation, maintaining a clean digestive system, regular exercise, and a diet rich in leafy greens and whole foods.
• 💊 Detoxy liver is a supplement mentioned that contains NAC, along with other ingredients beneficial for liver detoxification and hormone balance.
• 🧘‍♂️ The combination of NAC and NAD can enhance detoxification, antioxidant levels, and potentially slow down the aging process in cells.
• 👨‍⚕️ The video emphasizes the importance of medical supervision when using NAD for various health conditions, including detoxification from medications.

Q & A

What is NAC and what are its primary uses?

NAC stands for N-acetylcysteine. It is used for various medical purposes including treating acetaminophen poisoning, helping with lung issues like chronic bronchitis to clear phlegm, and preventing kidney damage during imaging studies with contrast dyes. It is also used in liver detoxification and for cough and lung clearance.

How does NAC work in the body?

NAC functions as a precursor to glutathione, which is a potent antioxidant and plays a crucial role in liver detoxification. By increasing glutathione levels, NAC aids in detoxifying the liver and the body, thereby supporting overall health and potentially slowing down cellular aging and death.

What is the role of glutathione in the body?

Glutathione is one of the body's most powerful antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. It is also essential for liver detoxification processes and plays a role in balancing steroid hormones like testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, and cortisol.

How is NAC used in supplements and treatments?

NAC is available in supplement form, IV form, and inhaled form. It is often included in liver detoxification supplements and can be administered intravenously to support cleansing the body, especially during times of illness such as flu or cold.

What is the difference between NAC and NAD?

NAC and NAD are distinct molecules. NAC is an antioxidant and detoxifying agent, while NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a cofactor in cellular metabolism, involved in energy production, DNA repair, and immune regulation. NAD levels decrease with age, affecting cellular functions.

What are the health benefits associated with NAD?

NAD benefits include increased cellular energy, improved DNA repair, support for the anti-aging pathway, and immune regulation. It has been used to address conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, addiction, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It also aids in metabolism and can positively affect inflammatory conditions.

How can one naturally increase NAD levels in the body?

Natural ways to increase NAD levels include reducing inflammation, ensuring a clean digestive system, performing liver detoxification, exercising properly, getting good sleep, and consuming a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, whole foods, and whole grains. Fasting and a keto diet may also help increase NAD levels.

What are NMN and NR, and how are they related to NAD?

NMN (Nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (Nicotinamide riboside) are precursors to NAD. The biosynthesis pathway of NAD starts with NR, which becomes NMN, and then NMN is converted into NAD. Both NMN and NR can be used to raise NAD levels in the body.

What supplements are recommended to support NAD levels and why?

Supplements like Mitochondria Boost, D-ribose, B complex vitamins, Coenzyme Q10, and Resveratrol are recommended to support NAD levels and mitochondrial function. These supplements help in the production of ATP through the citric acid cycle and support overall cellular energy and health.

How do NAC and NAD work together in the body?

NAC and NAD, when used together, can enhance detoxification and antioxidant processes in the body. NAC helps detoxify the liver and lungs, while NAD supports cellular energy production and waste removal, contributing to anti-oxidation, detoxification, and anti-aging effects.