#109 How To Boost NAD Levels To Fight Inflammation, Improve Recovery, and Slow Aging | Dr. Charles Brenner - FoundMyFitness Recap
Podcast: FoundMyFitness
Published: 2026-02-09
Duration: 1 hr 59 min
Summary
This episode features Dr. Charles Brenner discussing nicotinamide riboside, a precursor to NAD, which is essential for cellular energy, DNA repair, and immunity. The conversation delves into the implications of NAD on inflammation, exercise recovery, and overall health as we age.
What Happened
In this episode, Dr. Charles Brenner, a biochemist renowned for his discovery of nicotinamide riboside, joins the host to explore the vital role of NAD in health and aging. Dr. Brenner emphasizes that nicotinamide riboside is uniquely effective at boosting NAD levels, supported by clinical evidence that shows anti-inflammatory benefits at doses between 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day. The discussion highlights NAD's importance in combating chronic inflammation, which is linked to various conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, and age-related diseases.
The conversation also touches on the effects of inflammation on the NAD system across multiple tissues, stressing the need to address underlying lifestyle factors that contribute to inflammation. Dr. Brenner reveals emerging research indicating potential benefits of nicotinamide riboside for fertility and cognitive function in offspring, as well as critical insights into intravenous NAD therapies, debunking myths while focusing on evidence-based data regarding bioavailability and clinical efficacy. The episode provides practical guidance on how to effectively boost NAD levels while considering the influence of the gut microbiome on NAD metabolism.
Key Insights
- Nicotinamide riboside effectively boosts NAD levels with substantial clinical backing.
- NAD plays a significant role in managing chronic inflammation related to aging.
- Inflammation can disrupt NAD systems across various tissues, necessitating a holistic approach to health.
- Emerging research suggests nicotinamide riboside may enhance fertility and cognitive outcomes in offspring.
Key Questions Answered
What is nicotinamide riboside and its role in boosting NAD levels?
Nicotinamide riboside is a vitamin precursor to NAD, a crucial molecule for cellular energy and DNA repair. Dr. Brenner discusses how this compound is uniquely positioned among NAD precursors due to its robust clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness in boosting NAD levels, particularly at doses between 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day.
How does NAD relate to chronic inflammation and aging?
Dr. Brenner explains that NAD plays a significant role in conditions driven by chronic inflammation, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. He highlights that while NAD levels in blood may not significantly decline with age, tissue levels can be affected by inflammatory processes, especially in the context of chronic diseases.
What are the implications of NAD on exercise recovery?
The episode discusses how inflammation can heavily tax the NAD system across various tissues, which can affect recovery post-exercise. Dr. Brenner underscores the importance of addressing lifestyle factors that contribute to inflammation to support optimal NAD function and enhance recovery.
What emerging benefits are associated with nicotinamide riboside?
Dr. Brenner shares emerging data suggesting that nicotinamide riboside may offer benefits for fertility, improved maternal lactation, and enhanced developmental outcomes in offspring, such as cognitive function and lean muscle mass. This indicates a broader potential for NAD precursors beyond just aging.
How does the gut microbiome influence NAD metabolism?
The podcast delves into the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and NAD metabolism, with Dr. Brenner noting that the gut microbiome can significantly affect how effectively individuals can benefit from NAD supplementation. This interplay highlights the need for a holistic understanding of health and nutrition.