How Quercetin May Affect NAD+

In SanMagnesium mineral powder, we have added the potent antioxidant quercetin. It gives a nice color, but has much more to offer when it comes to health benefits! 

In the quest to slow the aging process and promote health, NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) has become a popular target. Many people take supplements to increase NAD+ levels, but recent research suggests that supporting the body’s own processes with adjuvants like quercetin may be an even more effective approach. Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, shows promise in maintaining NAD+ levels and improving cellular health.

Quercetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in many fruits, vegetables, teas, and wines. It has long been known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but recent research has begun to explore its potential to influence biochemical processes such as NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), an essential cofactor in cellular energy metabolism and aging-related processes.

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What is NAD+ and why is it important?

NAD+ is a molecule that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by acting as a cofactor in redox reactions. In addition, NAD+ activates sirtuins, a group of proteins associated with DNA repair, inflammation control, and metabolic regulation. Aging and stress reduce NAD+ levels in cells, which is linked to reduced cellular function and an increased risk of age-related diseases.

How Quercetin Affects NAD+ Levels

Quercetin's ability to affect NAD+ is indirect, but significant. Here are three mechanisms in which quercetin plays a role:

1. Inhibition of the CD38 enzyme

CD38 is an enzyme that breaks down NAD+ into less active metabolites. Overexpression of CD38 is associated with aging and inflammation. A study published in Nature Metabolism (2019) demonstrated that quercetin effectively inhibits CD38 activity, which reduces NAD+ degradation and helps maintain higher NAD+ levels in cells.

2. Antioxidant properties and reducing oxidative stress

Oxidative stress can reduce NAD+ production by damaging NAD+-synthesizing enzymes. Quercetin acts as a powerful antioxidant and reduces oxidative stress, which indirectly protects NAD+ levels. According to a study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2020), quercetin’s antioxidant properties can improve cell function and extend the lifespan of NAD+-dependent processes.

3. Stimulation of AMPK pathway

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an important enzyme that regulates energy balance in cells. Activation of AMPK stimulates NAD+ synthesis through upregulation of NAMPT (nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), a key enzyme in the NAD+ recovery pathway. Research published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry (2021) showed that quercetin activates AMPK, which increases NAD+ synthesis.

Clinical implications

Quercetin's positive effect on NAD+ levels has several promising health implications:

• Age-related health: By maintaining NAD+ levels, quercetin may help slow aging processes and improve cell function.

• Metabolic health: Higher NAD+ levels are associated with improved insulin sensitivity and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome.

• Neurodegenerative diseases: Quercetin's protective effects on NAD+ could potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

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Conclusion

Quercetin is an exciting natural compound with the potential to influence NAD+ levels through inhibition of CD38, reduction of oxidative stress, and stimulation of AMPK. With its wide availability in the diet and promising health benefits, quercetin may be a valuable supplement to improve cellular health and slow the aging process.