When trying to conceive, the abundance of advice can feel overwhelming. But among the lesser-known options gaining attention is the use of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) boosters. Touted in Hollywood circles for their anti-aging effects, these supplements may also offer surprising benefits for fertility by supporting egg and sperm quality.
NAD+ is a vital molecule found in every living cell, crucial for energy production, cellular repair, and defense. According to Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, a fertility specialist often referred to as The Egg Whisperer, “NAD+ sustains life by powering cellular processes and maintaining mitochondrial health, which is essential for overall vitality.”
Unfortunately, NAD+ levels decline naturally with age—dropping by as much as 65% between ages 30 and 70—and are further depleted by stressors like poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, and environmental toxins.
Dr. Nirali Shah Jain, a reproductive endocrinologist, explains that maintaining NAD+ levels is particularly important for combating oxidative stress and slowing down age-related conditions, including those affecting reproductive health.
Recent research underscores the connection between NAD+ and reproductive health. NAD+ plays a critical role in mitochondrial function, the cellular powerhouses responsible for energy production. “Egg cell health depends heavily on mitochondrial health, making NAD+ a key factor in fertility,” says Dr. Eyvazzadeh.
Research from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute highlights the risks of NAD+ deficiency during pregnancy, linking it to birth defects and miscarriages. Additionally, studies from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging found that an enzyme called CD38 degrades NAD+ in the ovaries, contributing to the decline in egg quality and quantity.
To counteract declining NAD+ levels, supplements such as nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3, can help the body produce NAD+ naturally. Dr. Eyvazzadeh notes that NR offers a practical and safe way to elevate NAD+ levels without the side effects associated with intravenous (IV) treatments.
“NAD+ boosters optimize the oxidative reactions in cells, especially those under stress or aging,” explains Dr. Jain. However, experts caution that supplements should complement healthy habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and proper sleep, rather than replace them.
While certain foods like milk, meat, and brewer’s yeast contain precursors of NAD+, the amounts are insufficient to meet the body’s needs. For instance, Dr. Eyvazzadeh points out that you’d need to consume 87 gallons of milk to match the NR in a single supplement capsule, making targeted supplementation a more feasible solution.
Supporting NAD+ levels is especially important for women over 35, often categorized as having “advanced maternal age.” Dr. Eyvazzadeh reframes this term as “advanced mitochondrial age,” highlighting the importance of mitochondrial health for both egg and uterine function.
Anecdotal evidence, such as stories shared in online fertility forums, supports the potential benefits of NAD+ supplementation. One user on Reddit’s IVF community credited NAD+ supplements for her improved IVF outcomes, resulting in a long-awaited pregnancy after years of infertility.
Although most discussions around NAD+ and fertility focus on women, the molecule may also benefit men by supporting sperm health. Healthy mitochondrial function is essential for sperm motility, DNA integrity, and overall quality. “I recommend NAD+ supplements for both my female and male patients,” says Dr. Eyvazzadeh.
While promising, the connection between NAD+ and fertility is still an emerging field. Researchers emphasize the need for more clinical studies to solidify the evidence. As with any supplement, individuals should consult their doctor before incorporating NAD+ boosters into their routine to ensure safety and suitability.
By improving mitochondrial health and cellular energy, NAD+ supplements may offer a new avenue for couples facing fertility challenges, potentially enhancing their chances of growing their families.
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