Evidence over hype

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD+, is all the rage in the healthy aging space. Social media influencers tout NAD+ supplements, injections and infusions as anti-aging miracles that can clear brain fog and improve everything from energy and memory to athletic performance and recovery.

But the latest research from the University of Delaware suggests the benefits of boosting NAD+ may be more limited than some marketing claims suggest.

The results of a 12-week clinical trial, led by Christopher Martens, associate professor of kinesiology and applied physiology (KAAP) and director of UD's Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging Research (DECCAR), found that nicotinamide riboside (NR) was well-tolerated and effectively increased blood NAD+ levels in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) but did not significantly improve cognitive function, cardiovascular function or whole-brain blood flow.

The findings were published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association on July 21, 2026.

"The science is still really limited, especially when it comes to NAD+ infusions," Martens said. "While there haven't been any major reports of serious side effects, people generally think NAD+ is safe, and as they get older by the minute, they don't want to wait for the science."