The Best NAD Supplements For Healthy Aging

You may not know its formal name—nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide—but there’s a very good chance you recognize NAD as the latest, greatest longevity supplement. It’s trending on social media, where wellness influencers and celebrities alike are raving about its benefits. Honestly, they’re a little late to the game. NAD has been turning heads among longevity scientists for a few years now, thanks to an ever-growing collection of clinical trials and studies that point to its ability to slow and even reverse age-related decline. If you’re researching the best NAD supplements, it’s important to understand exactly what NAD is, how it works, and why the best NAD supplement isn’t actually NAD itself. Curious, isn’t it?

What are NAD supplements?

NAD is an impressive little coenzyme responsible for some 500 enzymatic processes in the body. Without it, you don’t function. More to the point—without it, you don’t even exist. When we’re young and spry, we produce all of the NAD we need. But production at the NAD factory begins to decline in your early 30s. At the same time, various age-related indignities—think cognitive fuzziness, greying hair, wrinkles, slower recovery times, less energy—ramp up.

Among its many functions, NAD is a critical component of energy production across the entire body. It’s a big player in the production of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, in mitochondria—and as you’ll recall, that’s the battery of the cell. In fact, 70% of NAD production is used in this way. But by the time we hit the half-century mark, our NAD levels are half of what they were when we were 20. Those reduced NAD levels can’t power our cellular batteries as effectively as they once did, nor can manage all of those enzymes and proteins quite as efficiently. And that’s a problem.

Take sirtuins, an essential family of proteins that repair DNA and act as little cellular sensors to respond to any fluctuations in a cell’s energy status. They’re primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis in our cells, and they have a direct effect on things like stress management, circadian rhythm, inflammation and more. Clearly, they’re important—and entirely NAD dependent. In other words, sirtuins can’t function properly without NAD. As NAD levels decline, so does healthy sirtuin activity.

But there is an upside. Research has shown that NAD levels can be restored to more youthful levels, which has a positive downstream effect on sirtuin function and the hundreds of enzymatic processes we touched on above. When people talk about NAD supplementation, that’s the goal—boosting NAD in the cells to repair DNA and slow the biological process of aging, along with all of the side effects that go along with it.

Can you take NAD directly?

You’d think so, but it really doesn’t work that way. In fact, taking NAD directly doesn’t get the job done at all. That’s because it’s a sizable molecule that we really don’t absorb well, whether it’s taken orally or via IV therapy. But NAD precursors, now, those are a big deal. In fact, according to Andrew Salzman MD, a cellular health pioneer, leading biomedical expert and Chief Medical Officer here at Wonderfeel, NAD precursors are among the biggest discoveries in longevity science. “The real breakthrough that’s occurred is how to get NAD levels back to normal,” he says. “We now understand that it can’t be done by giving NAD itself, but it can be done by supplying the starting material.”

He’s referring to precursors like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside), which are impressive compounds in their own right. Unlike NAD, which has a very difficult time navigating to the cell, let alone getting inside, NMN and NR have no issues getting where they need to go. They’re small, super resilient and enjoy VIP access directly into our cells, where they convert to NAD—exactly what we need them to do.

Now, NMN and NR are quite similar at the molecular level, but the big difference is how these compounds convert once they’re inside our cells. NR actually converts to NMN and then to NAD. NMN is a little more efficient. Not only is it the immediate precursor to NAD, with no conversion step required, it also has its very own transporter to the cell. The jauntily-named Slc12a8 transporter was identified in 2019, and it basically serves as an NMN-specific off-ramp for cellular entry. While we’re big fans of NR, we appreciate the more direct approach offered with NMN, which is why you’ll find it in our Wonderfeel Youngr™ formula.

Benefits of NAD supplements

As Dr. Salzman put it, the big news is that we’re actually able to restore NAD to more youthful levels. You’ve already learned that NAD is a key player in cellular function. Specifically, it helps regulate metabolic and inflammatory responses. And here’s where it gets exciting. NAD supplements, like NMN, can slow and potentially even reverse age-related disorders and conditions. We’re talking about improving cognitive function, reducing premature skin aging, promoting faster recovery times, boosting metabolism, and enhancing cellular repair. But allow us to get very specific.

Longevity and healthy aging

Healthy aging is the big claim to fame for NAD supplementation. Studies find that boosting NAD delays the onset of aging-related diseases, and it’s pretty darn widespread—from metabolic disease to heart dysfunction to certain types of cancer. A 2020 study found that NAD supplementation improved mitochondrial function—i.e. the cellular energy process—in people who experienced heart failure, while a 2023 clinical trial found that participants with Parkinson’s disease experienced a significant uptick in NAD after supplementing with NR twice daily, which improved symptoms. What’s more, researchers suspect that low NAD levels actually contribute to the development of the disease in the first place.

The benefits of NAD supplementation aren’t limited to fending off disease. A 2019 study found that NAD supplements help improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as insulin sensitivity. Meanwhile, research from 2023 found that higher NAD levels actually limit the amount of cholesterol in the body. Truly, it’s a wonder compound promoting healthier aging.

Improved muscle function and recovery

NAD supplements like NMN have been studied for their potential impact on physical performance, and the results are telling. Multiple studies point to higher endurance and aerobic capacity, greater walking endurance, and enhanced physical performance. NAD precursors have also been studied for their potential to aid in recovery—a significant piece of the physical wellness puzzle. A 2019 study found that elevated NAD levels reduce oxidative stress, support DNA repair, and hastens recovery following intense exercise.

Female fertility

Less well-known but no less promising is the role NAD supplementation might play in female fertility, specifically when it comes to egg quality and reproductive function. Elevated NAD levels support optimized mitochondrial function, which is pretty darn essential for egg quality. Sirtuins are likewise involved, supporting cellular health and facilitating DNA repair. Boosting NAD stimulates sirtuin activity, which can help maintain egg integrity.

There’s also research suggesting NAD levels help regulate reproductive hormones. Supplementing with a high-quality NAD precursor can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, which may help balance hormones and support ovarian function.

Skin repair

NAD precursors like NMN can have a direct effect on skin quality because they bolster barrier function, improving hydration. Inflammation in the skin, which is associated with a range of conditions, may likewise be mitigated by NAD supplementation. Then there’s the 2019 clinical study that determined NAD deficiencies can increase sensitivity to UV rays, which makes it harder for skin cells to heal from sun damage—and found NAD supplementation to be a promising solution.

Clearly, there are many, many benefits to boosting NAD in the body. And clinical and anecdotal evidence continues to grow—even as you’re reading this!

Types of NAD supplements

Now, as you may have guessed from the wellness influencers alone, there are an ever-growing number of brands and manufacturers churning out NAD supplements (and leaning on influencers to hawk their wares). That means you, as the consumer, need to be mindful about what you’re taking. But, as we’ve covered, taking NAD directly isn’t the way to reap all these benefits, so you’re going to need an NAD precursor like NMN or NR. But even then, you have options—capsules, powders, even sublingual and liposomal formulations. So what’s the best form of NMN or NR supplementation?

It’s an important question, and we’ll give it to you straight. Oral capsules are the way to go. Not only are they the most efficient form of delivery, they’re the preferred form in all research institutes. In fact, all NMN data to date is specific to oral capsule supplementation. Capsules are also entirely non-invasive, unlike an IV, and conveniently ensure a gradual elevation of NAD in the body.

Compare that to sublingual or liposomal NAD supplementation (with the latter being rather trendy at the moment), which have little to no clinical data to support their efficacy. Keep in mind, too, that the success of one molecule doesn’t guarantee success for another. Sublingual and liposomal drug delivery may have their place, but there is simply no research to date specifically related to these delivery methods for NAD, NMN or NR. We have an entire post that breaks this down, but let’s quickly run through the highlights:

• Sublingual administration, one of the earliest systemic drug delivery methods, isn’t especially common these days and there are no clinical studies for sublingual NMN at all. In other words, any potential efficacy is mere speculation.
• Liposomal technology is trending, but it’s plagued by fairly significant drawbacks. Low stability, limited circulation time, leakage issues (both during use and in storage), and sensitivities to temperature, enzymatic activity, and pH levels are serious hurdles to efficacy. And, more to the point, liposomal NMN is just like sublingual NMN, in that there’s no nothing in the way of data to show it works.

The only form of NMN supplementation that has been extensively studied? You already know the answer—oral capsules. Hopefully that helps you narrow the field somewhat as you consider your options for the best NAD supplements!

Top NAD supplements in 2025

If you’re researching the top NAD supplements on the market, you’re going to very quickly run into Wonderfeel (and for good reason!). At the New York Post, Wonderfeel Youngr™ was awarded the top spot as  “Best NAD Precursor Overall” and Wonderfeel NMN Capsuls™ came in a close second as the “Best Value NAD Supplement.” At Honest Brand Reviews, Wonderfeel Youngr™ and Wonderfeel Capsuls™ snagged the first and second spots. Other brands recognized in these reviews include Elysium, Lifeforce, Life Extension, and Elevant. Over at mindbodygreen, Wonderfeel Youngr™ landed the title of “Best Overall NAD Supplement.” Vogue named it the best NMN NAD supplement, and The Good Trade ranked it #1 for metabolic health. 

The review and selection process at Honest Brand Review includes purity and quality, certification and testing, and price and value. The New York Post, meanwhile, consulted a trio of experts, including functional medicine practitioner Dr. Halland Chan (AKA “The Longevity Doctor”), registered dietitian Caroline Thomason and Dr. Salzman.

“Wonderfeel Youngr NMN’s 900 mg dose is impressive because it offers a stronger boost to NAD+ levels compared to many other supplements,” shared Halland. “This higher dose is ideal for those who want more noticeable effects, like improved energy, better focus, and quicker recovery, making it a top choice for more serious anti-aging support.

Halland also points out that Wonderfeel’s multi-targeted formulation makes it stand out from competitors. He suggests that adding resveratrol and ergothioneine, known as the longevity vitamin, works well with NMN to amplify the benefits, enhancing cellular repair, methylation, and overall vitality.”  – New York Post

“Wonderfeel’s formula includes a carefully selected blend of antioxidants and sirtuin activators, such as ergothioneine, hydroxytyrosol, and resveratrol. This unique combination is crafted to enhance the potential benefits of NMN. Together, these ingredients help the body effectively counter inflammation and oxidative stress, both major contributors to aging.

In addition to supporting physical energy, it may also improve mental clarity and focus, allowing users to feel more vibrant throughout the day. With a commitment to using safe, non-GMO ingredients, Wonderfeel Youngr™ NMN offers a clean and effective way to support aging gracefully while maintaining a youthful sense of well-being.” – Honest Brand Reviews

Both publications highlight the inclusion of select antioxidants in our formula. We add key antioxidants, including resveratrol, hydroxytyrosol and ergothioneine, to shield against oxidative stress and stimulate sirtuin activity. But perhaps more importantly, these compounds also put a damper on the activity of something known as CD38—an avid NAD consumer.

A two-pronged approach to NAD depletion

The trick with NAD supplementation isn’t simply to boost NAD. Actually, that’s only half the battle. It’s equally important to slow down NAD depletion, which becomes a serious issue the older we get thanks to CD38 and other NAD consumers. CD38 is an enzyme that plays a role in immune response and it actively breaks down NAD in the body. Getting older poses a double whammy, curbing NAD production and ramping up CD38 activity. Picture a leaky bucket you’re filling with a hose. No matter how much water you add, it can never be enough—it simply drains away. To actually fill the bucket, you need to plug the holes. The same is true with effective NAD supplementation. It’s not just about increasing NAD. It’s also about plugging the leaks to ensure that the NAD you add can’t drain away. And in Wonderfeel Youngr™, the very same antioxidants that safeguard against oxidative damage also inhibit the production of CD38. In other words, they plug the holes. And truly, it’s a game changer for efficacy, setting Youngr™ well apart in the world of NAD supplements.

How to choose the best NAD supplement

With any supplement, it’s incredibly important to research your options instead of choosing at random. Keep in mind that dietary supplements aren’t particularly well regulated. The Food and Drug Administration takes a reactionary approach to this class of products, meaning they don’t have to be proven safe and effective before they’re available for purchase. Instead, the FDA uses postmarket enforcement. It’s entirely backwards, and it basically means you need to be incredibly diligent about what you buy.

For NAD supplements in particular, a little homework is in order. That’s the best way to learn more about purity, meaningful certifications, the importance of lab testing, clinical dosages, and the most appropriate form of delivery. Here’s a handy shopping guide to help you choose the best NAD supplement:

• Focus on purity. Purity is really important, but there are a lot of misleading labels out there. If you’re not sure you can trust the 99% purity label—and you’re probably right to be skeptical—pay attention to how and where the supplement is manufactured. That brings us to point two…
• Look for key certifications. Err on the side of caution by choosing NAD supplements that are processed in cGMP (current good manufacturing practices) compliant facilities. It means they meet stringent regulations approved by the FDA for purity, quality, and efficacy, thanks to strict quality control measures and premium raw materials. NAD supplements that are manufactured in non-cGMP facilities—and there are a lot of them—are at a very high risk for harmful contaminants, even if they describe their product as 99% pure.
• Check for third-party testing. To be certain that your NAD supplement doesn’t have these worrisome contaminants, not to mention things like yeast, mold, or bacteria, look for a valid certificate of analysis (COA). That tells you that a particular product has been tested and deemed safe. But here’s the catch—a COA is only credible when it comes from an accredited lab. It should also be easy for you to find on the company’s website. 
• Be clear on clinical dosages. Clinical studies have looked closely at the ideal dosage for both NMN and NR, and more really is better. The biggest human clinical trial to date determined that higher dosages of NMN, in the 600 to 1200-milligram range, offer the biggest bang. That’s been confirmed by other studies as well, and it informed our Wonderfeel Youngr™ dosage of 900 milligrams for a two-capsule serving. If a supplement is recommending lower amounts, benefits won’t be nearly as impressive.
• Factor for efficacious forms of delivery. How you choose to supplement with NAD plays a terribly important role in overall efficacy. As we covered above, there’s just no data to back up claims that sublingual or liposomal NMN, NR, or NAD effectively raise NAD levels. Since that’s the entire point of this exercise, look for oral capsules of a proven NAD precursor, like NMN or NR. Again, that’s what’s been studied to date, and that’s where our data comes from.

The Bottom Line on the Best NAD Supplements

With brands like Wonderfeel bringing effective NAD supplements to the market, it’s not just celebrities and wellness influencers who can benefit. Restoring NAD levels in the body is associated with a lengthy list of health benefits that make a significant difference in your day-to-day life—fewer aches and pains, faster recovery times, and a quicker mind among them. Add to that their role in longevity, and it’s easy to see why NAD supplements are drawing attention. 

Of course, the devil is in the details, which means it’s up to you to choose an NAD supplement wisely. If you’re starting from scratch, remember that the very best NAD supplements are manufactured in cGMP facilities, third-party tested for safety, purity, and quality, and deliver an effective clinical dose (and more is better!). Follow the data, and you’ll also learn that oral capsules are the only delivery form with scientific data to back them up. Prefer to cut to the chase? Start with Wonderfeel Youngr™.