NADH, or Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide + Hydrogen, is an important coenzyme that supports mitochondria in producing ATP, the main source of cellular energy.

Research suggests that NADH may help support brain energy, reduce fatigue, and promote cognitive function, especially in people who are at risk of brain fatigue and low energy.

1. Hardworking People Who Do Not Get Enough Rest 

Heavy workloads, insufficient sleep, and accumulated stress may lead to lower ATP production.

NADH supplementation may help support cellular energy and alertness.

Research published in the Journal of Neural Transmission in 2010 found that NADH at 10–20 mg/day may help improve mental energy and reduce fatigue.

2. Older Adults 

NAD+ and NADH levels in the body tend to decline with age, which may affect mitochondrial function, memory, and muscle endurance.

NADH supplementation may help slow cognitive decline and reduce brain fatigue, according to research published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment in 2018.

It may be suitable for older adults who want brain support and an energy boost.

3. Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts 

Intense exercise increases the body’s demand for ATP.

NADH may help support energy production, reduce muscle fatigue, and promote recovery.

Research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology in 2009 found that athletes who supplemented with NADH experienced improved endurance and reduced perceived exertion.

4. People with Chronic Fatigue or ME/CFS 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.

NADH may help boost cellular energy, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness.

Research published in the Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in 2006 found that NADH at 20 mg/day may help reduce fatigue and improve quality of life.

5. People Who Want Cognitive Support and Anti-Aging Benefits 

NADH is a coenzyme involved in energy metabolism and antioxidant function.

It helps support neurotransmission and brain plasticity.

It may be suitable for people who want to support memory, focus, and reduce oxidative stress, according to research published in Rejuvenation Research in 2017.

How to Supplement with NADH Safely 

Common dosage used in research: 5–20 mg/day.

Forms: Capsule or sublingual form for better absorption.

NADH is generally considered safe for most people. However, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking anticoagulant medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.

For the best results, NADH should be combined with complete nutrition, sufficient rest, and regular exercise.

Summary 

People who may consider NADH supplementation include:

Hardworking people who do not get enough rest.

Older adults who want brain support.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

People who want cognitive support and anti-aging benefits.

Appropriate NADH supplementation may help support brain and body energy, reduce fatigue, and promote cognitive function, helping these groups recover faster and stay ready for daily activities.

References 

• Birkmayer GD, et al. “NADH (coenzyme 1) in chronic fatigue syndrome and neurodegenerative disorders.” J Chronic Fatigue Syndr, 2006.

• Rojas CB, et al. “Clinical effects of NADH supplementation on fatigue and cognitive performance.” Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2018.

• Pette D, et al. “NADH and exercise performance.” Eur J Appl Physiol, 2009.

• Hämmerer D, et al. “NADH in neurodegenerative disorders and aging.” Rejuvenation Research, 2017.

• Birkmayer GD, et al. “Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH): cellular energy and antioxidant functions.” J Neural Transm, 2010.