5 Signs Your NAD+ Levels are Low

Published: 2025-10-21

Updated: 2025-11-11

4 mins

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is an important molecule for the mitochondria in cells. At its core, NAD+ is made from niacinamide (a type of vitamin B3). It’s involved in more bodily processes than you realize.  In recent years, health experts have been looking into how NAD+ levels affect your overall health. 

A change in your NAD+ levels is not something you may notice right away. NAD+ levels are constantly fluctuating throughout your life as you experience stress or other environmental factors. Many of the symptoms of NAD+ deficiency mimic those of other health concerns, such as a common cold or chronic conditions associated with aging.

You’re more likely to hear more from your healthcare provider about changes in your NAD+ levels in your 40s and 50s. NAD+ levels can slightly affect your health, but treatment may only be considered for coexisting health conditions first. Anything that can lead to increased oxidative stress levels may cause NAD+ levels to decrease.

What Does NAD+ Do in the Body?

NAD+ helps to maintain the structure of the cell, gives energy to the cell, and protects DNA. NAD+ is involved in many bodily processes affecting your everyday life. For example, NAD+ is key for regulating your circadian rhythm (your body’s sleep/wake cycle).

How is NAD+ Deficiency Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider can check your bloodstream with NAD+ testing. However, a healthcare provider may consider other options before checking your NAD+ levels. Oftentimes, symptoms associated with NAD+ deficiency are a result of preexisting health conditions.

What are the Signs of Low NAD+ Levels?

Having low NAD+ levels is commonly associated with certain health conditions like glaucoma and diabetes. You may also see NAD+ levels drop naturally as you age. Low NAD+ levels are one of the few reasons you may see changes in your weight and memory problems as you age.

Different lifestyle habits like eating unhealthy foods, not getting enough exercise, or having a lack of sleep can cause NAD+ levels to drop. The following are some of the most common symptoms associated with low NAD+ levels.

1. Forgetfulness

NAD+ affects parts of the brain involved in memory. When someone has low NAD+ levels, they may have a harder time remembering things short-term or recalling their plans for the day.

2. Fatigue

When the mitochondria of the cell don’t have enough energy, you may feel tired more often. Fatigue from low NAD+ levels may continue even if you get enough sleep.

3. Weakened immune system

Getting colds more often than you used to may be a sign that your NAD+ levels are low. NAD+ helps your immune system fight illness. 

4. Mood swings

When there’s an imbalance in NAD+ levels, your mood may change more often. You may find yourself getting annoyed or irritated more often.

5. Muscle strain

Low NAD+ levels may make it more difficult for your body to recover from intense physical activities. NAD+ is necessary for cell regeneration to repair damage and help your body recover.

How is NAD+ Deficiency Treated?

A healthcare provider can help you boost NAD+ levels with at-home NAD+ injections, which allow you to administer controlled doses of NAD+ directly into the bloodstream. This method offers a convenient, more direct way to support cellular energy and recovery without needing frequent clinic visits.

In addition to injections, certain lifestyle habits can help your body maintain healthy NAD+ levels. Prioritizing a regular sleep schedule, limiting alcohol intake, and getting at least 30 minutes of daily exercise are simple ways to naturally support NAD+ production and overall cellular health.

Where Can I Learn More About Maintaining My Health?

If you’re interested in NAD+ injections, Rex MD’s NAD+ treatment is designed to help your body recharge at the cellular level. 

Complete your online quiz to get started with NAD+ treatment, available through Rex MD.