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What Celebrities Are Using NAD? Inside the A-List Longevity Trend

5 min read

According to scientific research, human NAD+ levels can drop by as much as 50% every 20 years, contributing to the aging process. This fact has not been lost on Hollywood’s elite, many of whom are now exploring exactly what celebrities are using NAD for, in their quest for eternal youth and enhanced vitality.

Quick Summary

Several A-list actors, pop stars, and influencers are embracing NAD+ treatments, from intravenous drips to oral supplements, as a core part of their anti-aging and wellness routines. High-profile figures like Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston publicly endorse the coenzyme for potential benefits related to energy, recovery, and longevity, prompting widespread interest in the science behind the trend.

Key Points

  • Endorsed by A-Listers: Gwyneth Paltrow, Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Aniston, and Joe Rogan are among the celebrities publicly using or promoting NAD+ treatments.

  • Used for Longevity and Energy: Celebrities use NAD+ primarily for its perceived anti-aging benefits, such as boosting energy, improving cognitive function, and aiding recovery.

  • IV Therapy is a Popular Method: Many celebrities opt for expensive IV infusions, which offer nearly 100% bioavailability compared to oral supplements.

  • Backed by Some Science: NAD+ is a vital coenzyme for cellular energy production, and its levels naturally decline with age; animal studies show promise for longevity.

  • Requires Professional Guidance: It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting NAD+ therapy, as research is still ongoing, especially for long-term human effects.

  • Balanced with Traditional Health: The trend should not replace core health habits like diet, exercise, and sleep, which remain the most effective long-term wellness strategies.

In This Article

Hollywood’s Embrace of NAD+ Therapy

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) has moved from scientific research into the mainstream spotlight, largely due to endorsements from high-profile celebrities. This coenzyme is present in every cell of the body and is critical for essential functions like converting food into energy and repairing damaged DNA. As natural NAD+ levels decline with age, wellness enthusiasts—including some of the world’s most recognizable stars—are turning to supplements and IV therapy to boost their levels.

The list of celebrities exploring this biohacking frontier is extensive, with many openly discussing their experiences in interviews and on social media. For these A-listers, NAD+ is not just a supplement but a cornerstone of a proactive approach to health and longevity.

Notable Celebrities Using NAD

Numerous public figures have shared their interest in or use of NAD+, driving the conversation around its potential benefits:

  • Gwyneth Paltrow: A pioneer in the wellness industry with her brand Goop, Paltrow has been linked to promoting various health trends, including NAD+ therapy. She integrates it into her holistic approach to aging.
  • Hailey and Justin Bieber: The power couple has publicly featured their NAD+ use. On an episode of The Kardashians, Hailey was seen receiving an IV drip alongside Kendall Jenner, quipping, “I'm going to NAD for the rest of my life, and I'm never going to age”. Justin also filmed himself getting an NAD+ IV in his documentary Seasons.
  • Jennifer Aniston: The actress has praised weekly NAD+ treatments, telling The Wall Street Journal that she believes the therapy is “the future” of wellness.
  • Joe Rogan: The podcast host is a notable advocate for NAD+ supplementation and IV infusions. He and his producer have both discussed experiencing significant benefits, including increased energy and vitality.
  • Kendall Jenner: Along with Hailey Bieber, the model has featured her NAD+ IV infusions on reality television, mentioning it as part of her post-COVID wellness regimen for a renewed sense of well-being.
  • Kevin Love: The NBA All-Star uses NAD+ infusions for their cognitive and recovery benefits, stating it was a "longevity hack" that made him feel like he was thriving.
  • Dave Asprey: A leading figure in the biohacking community and founder of Bulletproof, Asprey has spoken about his use of NAD+ precursors and his strategies for maximizing the coenzyme's effects.

Delivery Methods: IV vs. Oral Supplements

When it comes to boosting NAD+ levels, celebrities and consumers have several options, with IV therapy being the most publicized among the Hollywood crowd. The method of delivery is a key consideration for effectiveness and cost.

Comparison of NAD+ Delivery Methods

Feature IV Therapy Oral Supplements (NMN/NR)
Absorption Nearly 100% bioavailability, as it's delivered directly into the bloodstream. Absorption can vary, as the molecule must be broken down in the digestive system before it can be utilized.
Speed of Effect Effects are often felt more quickly and intensely, within hours or days. Effects are more gradual and may take longer to notice.
Cost High. Can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars per session, positioning it as a luxury treatment. Lower. Supplements are significantly less expensive, making them more accessible for regular use.
Convenience Requires a visit to a specialized clinic, often taking several hours for an infusion. Can be taken easily at home as part of a daily routine.
Celebrity Appeal Highly popular, frequently featured on social media and TV shows. Less often highlighted by celebrities in public forums.
Supporting Research Limited human clinical data on IV's direct outcomes; relies heavily on anecdotal evidence. Growing body of human research showing oral precursors reliably increase blood NAD+ levels.

The Science Behind the Hype

For many, NAD+ is not just a trend but a powerful molecule with significant cellular functions. The science shows NAD+ plays a vital role in over 500 biochemical reactions, including activating sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate cellular health and are linked to longevity. By supporting the health of the mitochondria, the "powerhouses of the cell," NAD+ boosts energy production and cellular function.

In animal studies, boosting NAD+ has been linked to increased lifespan and improved markers of health. While promising, the translation of these results to humans is still being studied. Celebrity endorsements and anecdotal reports suggest benefits like improved energy, mental clarity, and athletic recovery, but these are not a replacement for scientific data. For example, some individuals have sought NAD+ to aid in post-illness recovery, citing improvements in energy levels and reduced inflammation.

A Balanced Perspective on Celebrity Health Trends

While celebrity endorsements have undeniably propelled NAD+ into the mainstream, it is crucial for individuals to approach this trend with a balanced perspective. The high cost of IV therapy and the limited human clinical data on long-term outcomes mean that it is not a cure-all or a replacement for a healthy lifestyle. Experts continue to stress that foundational wellness—encompassing proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mental well-being—remains the most effective strategy for long-term health.

The interest in NAD+ is a reflection of a broader societal desire for enhanced longevity and vitality. For those considering NAD+ therapy or supplementation, a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is essential to determine if it is a suitable and safe option. A growing body of accessible research on NAD+ precursors is available from institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), providing a more scientific basis for informed decisions.(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6530925/)

Conclusion: More Than Just a Hollywood Fad

The trend of celebrities using NAD+ has brought a centuries-old molecule into the modern conversation about health and longevity. From IV drips promising immediate vitality boosts to daily oral supplements, the methods and reasons for use vary widely among the A-list. While high-profile endorsements have amplified the hype, the core scientific function of NAD+ in cellular energy and repair provides a solid foundation for its popularity. As research continues to evolve, the public is becoming more aware of both the potential benefits and the limitations of these advanced wellness therapies, highlighting the importance of balancing celebrity influence with scientific understanding and foundational health practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

A range of celebrities are associated with NAD+ use, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Hailey and Justin Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Aniston, Joe Rogan, Kevin Love, Halle Berry, and biohackers like Dave Asprey.

Celebrities turn to NAD+ for a variety of reasons, including potential anti-aging effects, increased energy and vitality, enhanced cognitive function, and improved recovery from physical exertion or illness.

NAD+ therapy, especially IV infusions for anti-aging or longevity, is not currently FDA-approved. The therapy is considered a wellness treatment, and scientific research into its long-term effects on humans is still ongoing.

IV therapy delivers NAD+ directly into the bloodstream for higher bioavailability and a quicker effect. Oral supplements, such as Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) or Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), are more convenient but have lower and slower absorption rates.

NAD+ IV therapy can be very expensive, often costing hundreds or thousands of dollars per session. This high cost is a factor in its popularity as a luxury wellness treatment.

Oral NAD+ precursors are generally well-tolerated. For IV therapy, some patients may experience mild side effects like lightheadedness, nausea, or increased heart rate, which usually subside after the infusion is paused.

While animal studies have shown promising results, robust human data proving NAD+ therapy can reverse or significantly slow the aging process is still limited. Many claimed benefits are based on anecdotal evidence and are not yet fully supported by clinical trials.

No, NAD+ supplementation is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Experts emphasize that good nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mental wellness are the most effective long-term strategies for overall health and longevity.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.