11 Jun Can NAD Therapy Support Diabetes Management? A Look at the Science

Interest is growing in whether NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) therapy could support blood sugar regulation and reduce the risks associated with type 2 diabetes. In this article, we’ll explore what NAD is, how it relates to diabetes, and what current research says about its potential as a therapeutic tool.

What Is NAD and Why Does It Matter for Metabolic Health?

NAD is an important molecule for the health of your body’s cells. Natural NAD levels decline with age (or with chronic stress and obesity) so maintaining healthy levels of NAD can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellness. NAD plays several key roles: 

• It is a crucial coenzyme in energy production and cellular repair pathways that directly influence how the body processes glucose and responds to insulin
• Supports mitochondrial function[1]
• Repairs DNA damage
• Regulates cell aging via sirtuins, a protein involved in regulating cellular processes including the aging and death of cells, and their resistance to stress

How NAD May Help People with Diabetes

NAD can aid in people with diabetes in several ways:

• Improves insulin sensitivity: NAD+ is involved in energy metabolism and mitochondrial function, both of which are important for maintaining insulin sensitivity.
• Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation: An NAD+ deficiency can lead to a buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids. Low NAD+ levels can impair DNA repair, making cells more susceptible to stress and damage.[2]
• Supports pancreatic beta-cell function: Studies have shown that NAD+ levels decline in pancreatic beta cells during aging and in conditions like type 2 diabetes. This decline can impair beta cell function and contribute to the development of diabetes.
• May enhance mitochondrial health and glucose uptake: NAD+ is vital for mitochondrial function, acting as a coenzyme in numerous metabolic reactions. It helps maintain mitochondrial fitness through mechanisms like the mitochondrial unfolded protein response. While not directly increasing glucose uptake, NAD+ can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which can indirectly affect glucose uptake. 

NAD Precursors and Therapies Being Studied

NAD precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are being studied for their potential therapeutic effects in age-related diseases and conditions like metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. 

• NMN and NR supplements: NMN is an NAD+ precursor with potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in age-related diseases NR is a well-tolerated NAD+ precursor that can effectively increase NAD+ levels in various tissues. Studies suggest it may improve learning and memory in animal models, and it’s been investigated in human trials for metabolic disorders and aging. [3]
  

NAD+ IV therapy: Provides an immediate and high-bioavailability boost for those with advanced needs delivering NAD+ supplementation directly into the blood stream.

Can NAD Replace Diabetes Medications?

No, NAD therapy cannot replace diabetes medication. While NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) plays a vital role in metabolic health and insulin sensitivity, it is not a medically approved substitute for clinically validated diabetes treatments. Importantly, NAD supports, but does not directly control, blood sugar. NAD should be considered as a supporting supplement.

NAD Injections with Concierge MD

Concierge MD offers convenient NAD injections that are delivered directly to your home and self-administered. After consultation with a Concierge MD doctor, a recommended dose and regimen can be determined to meet your health goals. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can NAD Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?

No, NAD cannot reverse type 2 diabetes. However, it may support metabolic improvements that help manage the condition more effectively when combined with lifestyle changes and medical treatment.

Can NAD+ Help Diabetes?

Yes, NAD may help support metabolic health in people with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, but it is not a treatment or cure. NAD and its precursors (such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) may improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and mitochondrial function—all of which are impaired in diabetes.

Does NAD Help with Insulin Resistance?

Yes, NAD appears to help with insulin resistance, a condition where cells in the body become less responsive to insulin, a key feature of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. NAD plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and energy balance, both of which are closely tied to insulin sensitivity.

Are NAD Supplements Safe for Diabetics?

NAD supplements are generally considered safe for most people, including diabetics, when taken at standard dosages. However, people with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before starting NAD to ensure safety and avoid interactions with medications or existing health conditions.

Is NAD Therapy Approved for Diabetes Treatment?

NAD therapy is not a treatment for diabetes. It holds potential as a complementary tool in metabolic health, but should never replace diabetes medication and care..

How Quickly Does NAD Therapy Show Results for Metabolic Health?

The effects of NAD therapy on metabolic health can vary widely depending on the individual, delivery method (oral supplements vs. injections or IV), dosage, and baseline health. Early, short-term effects (enhanced energy, mental clarity, less fatigue) can be noticed within a few days or weeks. Medium-term effects such as improved insulin sensitivity can be within 4-12 weeks and longer potential effects such as mitochondrial health can be within 3 months or longer.