Joe Rogan's Personal Experience and Endorsement
Joe Rogan has openly shared his positive experiences with NAD, both through IV therapy and oral supplementation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he mentioned using NAD+ infusions as part of a strategy to boost his immune system and has also discussed taking oral precursors like NMN.
Rogan and his producer Jamie have discussed feeling more energetic and 'vibrant' after receiving NAD IV drips. This personal anecdote, combined with his frequent discussions with leading biohacking and longevity experts, has significantly amplified public interest in NAD and its potential benefits for energy, immunity, and overall vitality.
Expert Insights from the Joe Rogan Experience
Through his podcast, Rogan has engaged in deep conversations about NAD with some of the most influential voices in the field of longevity and biohacking. The most prominent of these guests is Harvard professor Dr. David Sinclair, who studies the biology of aging.
Dr. David Sinclair and the Science of Aging
Rogan’s discussions with Dr. Sinclair have focused heavily on how NAD levels decline with age and the potential for precursors like NMN and NR to counteract this process. Sinclair's own research and supplement regimen, which includes NMN and resveratrol, directly influenced Rogan's interest in NAD precursors. The conversations explore the scientific basis for NAD's role in vital cellular processes like energy metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation.
Biohacking with Ben Greenfield
Ben Greenfield, a biohacking expert and author, has also been a guest on multiple episodes of The Joe Rogan Experience where he and Rogan discussed NAD+. These conversations often cover the practical application of biohacking techniques, including NAD supplementation and IV therapy, for enhanced recovery and performance. Greenfield's approach to optimizing health resonates with Rogan's own focus on pushing physical and mental boundaries.
Scientific Context and Research
While Rogan and his guests have popularized the idea of NAD supplementation, the scientific community is still conducting research to fully understand its effects in humans. NAD is a crucial coenzyme involved in over 500 bodily reactions, including converting food into cellular energy (ATP), repairing damaged DNA, and regulating the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm).
Animal Studies vs. Human Trials
Research on NAD precursors has shown promising results in animal models, with studies suggesting potential benefits for metabolism, cardiovascular health, and lifespan extension. However, the results from human clinical trials have been less conclusive, with some studies showing increased NAD levels in the blood but inconsistent or unclear effects on clinical outcomes.
The Importance of Precursors
NAD itself is a large molecule that does not absorb well orally. Therefore, much of the research and Rogan's own supplementation involve precursors like Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), which the body can convert into NAD. The efficacy and absorption rates of different precursors are still under investigation, and some experts suggest oral supplementation is more practical than IV infusions.
NAD Supplementation Methods: Oral vs. IV
Rogan has experienced both intravenous (IV) NAD therapy and oral NAD precursor supplements, each with distinct characteristics.
A Comparison of NAD Delivery Methods
| Feature | Oral NAD Precursors (NMN/NR) | Intravenous (IV) NAD Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Supplements taken by mouth (capsules, powders, tablets) | Infusion of NAD+ directly into the bloodstream |
| Absorption | Absorbed via the digestive system, converting into NAD+ within the body. | 100% absorption rate; bypasses the digestive system for immediate use by cells. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable and accessible for regular, long-term use. | Significantly more expensive per session; often considered a luxury or biohacking treatment. |
| Impact | Gradually increases cellular NAD+ levels over time, requiring consistent use. | Provides a rapid, concentrated dose of NAD+, leading to more immediate, but potentially temporary, effects. |
| Side Effects | Typically mild, such as gastrointestinal discomfort. | Mild side effects are possible, such as nausea or flushing, often managed by slowing the infusion rate. |
Is NAD+ Safe? What are the Side Effects?
NAD supplements are generally considered safe for short-term use at recommended dosages, but long-term effects require more research. Mild side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and headaches have been reported with oral supplements. IV therapy can cause side effects like flushing, nausea, or cramping, which can be mitigated by a healthcare professional. Anyone considering NAD supplementation, especially those with pre-existing conditions, should consult a doctor.
Conclusion
What does Joe Rogan say about NAD reflects his deep curiosity and willingness to experiment with cutting-edge health practices, heavily influenced by experts featured on his popular podcast. From his personal anecdotes about feeling more energetic to scientific deep-dives with guests like Dr. David Sinclair, Rogan has effectively put NAD precursors like NMN and NR into the mainstream conversation around longevity and vitality. While anecdotal reports and promising animal studies are compelling, the broader scientific community is still working to fully understand the long-term human benefits and risks. For individuals interested in boosting NAD, adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet is a foundational step, while consulting a healthcare professional is crucial before beginning any supplementation. For more detailed information on the science, check out this NIH review of NAD+'s role in regenerative medicine.
