Could Boosting This Molecule Be The Key To Slowing Aging?

With more than 30 years of experience in drug discovery, over 170 peer-reviewed papers, and 60 patents, Salzman is a leading voice in the science of cellular health and longevity. He’s also the mind behind Youngr™ NMN, Wonderfeel’s NAD-boosting supplement.

NAD’s central role in cellular repair and energy production means that its loss impacts almost every aspect of health.

As NAD levels fall, we begin to see dysfunction across multiple systems:

As NAD declines, so does the energy available for supporting egg maturation and hormone regulation. This can lead to a cascade of symptoms, from irregular cycles and hot flashes to mood changes, brain fog, and disrupted sleep.

In men and women alike, declining NAD is tied to loss of muscle mass and strength. Muscle cells rely on NAD to fuel the mitochondria2 that power movement and endurance. As levels drop, so does our capacity to maintain lean muscle, contributing to frailty, slower recovery, and reduced athletic performance with age.

Sexual function also takes a hit. NAD supports blood flow, hormone synthesis, and mitochondrial health—all of which are essential for sexual vitality. Lower NAD3 levels can impact libido, arousal, erectile function4 in men, and vaginal health in women. While often overlooked, these changes are not just about intimacy; they’re a sign of broader systemic aging.

Levels of CD38 rise significantly with age, largely due to chronic, low-grade inflammation. Starting in your 20s, CD38 activity begins to increase and accelerates through midlife and beyond. This is part of why lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep (all known to increase inflammation) can further speed up aging at the cellular level.

While we can't stop NAD decline entirely, Salzman recommends a proactive approach to slow the process and restore balance:

A balanced diet rich in NAD precursors5, like tryptophan and niacin, is important. Foods such as broccoli, eggs, and fish contain these building blocks. However, Salzman notes that while diet helps, “the effect is rather small” on its own.

Regular cardiovascular and resistance exercise helps stimulate NAD production in the mitochondria. By stressing muscle tissue in a healthy way, you encourage the body to generate more NAD naturally, which is particularly important for maintaining muscle mass and energy as you age.

One of the most effective ways to increase NAD levels is through supplementation with precursors like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide). NMN6 is a direct precursor in the NAD synthesis pathway and can be quickly absorbed into cells to help replenish depleted stores. This targeted support is especially helpful as natural production slows with age.

To address the “drain” of NAD, Salzman’s formula includes natural CD38 inhibitors like hydroxytyrosol (from olive oil) and resveratrol (found in red wine and grapes). These polyphenols may help reduce the breakdown of NAD, preserving more of what your body makes or the NAD taken from supplements.

As research continues to evolve, NAD stands out as a key target for anyone looking to extend healthspan, improve daily performance, and age with strength and clarity.