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By pregnantish
If you’ve spent any time in fertility forums or talked to a reproductive endocrinologist lately, you may have heard about NAD+ and its potential role in egg quality. Here’s a clear, honest look at what the research says — and why fertility doctors are paying attention.
What is NAD+ and why does it matter for fertility?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule found in every living cell in your body. It’s essential for energy production inside the mitochondria — which matters enormously for egg cells, since eggs are among the most energy-demanding cells in the human body. Research has shown that NAD+ levels decline naturally with age, and that this decline is linked to reduced egg quality and fertility challenges.
The promising news is that this decline may be reversible. Studies have shown that boosting NAD+ levels improved oocyte quality in aged animals, restored fertility markers, and even reversed some of the adverse effects of maternal age on embryo development.
What is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?
You can’t simply take NAD+ directly as a supplement — the molecule is too large to enter cells efficiently. The most effective approach is to take an NAD+ precursor, which the body converts into NAD+ naturally. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 that has been clinically shown to raise NAD+ levels in the body. It’s the form most widely studied in the context of fertility and egg quality.
What do fertility doctors say?
Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh — “The Egg Whisperer” — joined the pregnantish podcast alongside ABC’s The Bachelorette’s Clare Crawley to discuss how cellular health and NAD+ support fertility, especially for patients over 40. Mona Rosene, MS, RD, Global Director of Scientific & Medical Affairs at Tru Niagen, also joins the episode to share more on the science behind the supplement. She explains that as we age, our mitochondria don’t function as well, and since egg cell health depends directly on mitochondrial health, supporting cellular energy becomes an important part of her fertility care approach.
What is Tru Niagen?
Tru Niagen is a leading NR supplement on the market, made by ChromaDex. It contains patented Niagen® NR, which has been accepted by the FDA as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). For those with more than 90 days before trying to conceive, Tru Niagen recommends taking between 150mg and 300mg daily. If you have fewer than 90 days before a cycle or retrieval, speak with your doctor about the right approach for your situation.
What should you know before starting?
As with any supplement, speak with your reproductive endocrinologist or OB-GYN before starting — especially if you are currently in a treatment cycle, pregnant, or breastfeeding. Some people report mild side effects at higher doses, including flushing or headache. Start at a lower dose and pay attention to how your body responds.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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