In the quest for longevity and vibrant health, few molecules have captured as much scientific interest as NAD⁺ and Glutathione. Both are fundamental to life itself — powering our cells, protecting against damage, and maintaining the delicate balance that defines youth and vitality.
The Power of NAD⁺ — Your Cellular Battery
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It acts as a molecular battery, driving more than 500 enzymatic reactions, from energy production and DNA repair to sirtuin activation, a key longevity pathway.
But here’s the challenge: NAD⁺ levels decline by up to 50 % by middle age, accelerating aging, fatigue, and metabolic slowdown. That’s why assessing your NAD⁺ status is critical — it provides a real-time window into your body’s metabolic age, not just your chronological one.
👉 Learn more about your NAD⁺ status with the NAD⁺ Index Test
Glutathione — The Master Antioxidant and Cellular Shield
If NAD⁺ is the battery, Glutathione (GSH) is the shield. Known as the “master antioxidant,” Glutathione neutralises harmful free radicals and regenerates other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10.
Low Glutathione levels are linked with oxidative stress, toxin build-up, and chronic inflammation — all drivers of premature aging. Yet it’s not just about supplementation; it’s about understanding how your body produces and recycles Glutathione efficiently.
👉 Measure your oxidative balance with the Glutathione Index Test
Why NAD⁺ and Glutathione Are a Team
Science is now revealing that these two molecules are deeply interconnected:
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NADPH regenerates Glutathione.
Glutathione is recycled from its oxidised form (GSSG) back to its active form (GSH) using NADPH — a derivative of NAD⁺ metabolism. Low NAD⁺ means less NADPH and weaker antioxidant defence. -
Glutathione protects NAD⁺ from oxidative loss.
Oxidative stress consumes NAD⁺ rapidly through DNA-repair pathways. Adequate Glutathione reduces this drain, conserving NAD⁺ for energy metabolism and longevity signalling. -
Together they preserve mitochondrial function.
The mitochondria — your body’s energy plants — rely on NAD⁺ for ATP production and on Glutathione for detoxifying reactive oxygen species. Their synergy underpins healthy metabolism and slower cellular aging.
How Declining Levels Affect You
When NAD⁺ and Glutathione decline:
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Energy drops — cells can’t generate ATP efficiently.
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Detoxification slows, leading to higher oxidative load.
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DNA repair weakens, increasing aging markers.
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Inflammation rises, driving metabolic and cognitive decline.
Monitoring both biomarkers provides early insight into how effectively your cells are coping with everyday stress.
Lifestyle and Nutrient Support
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Exercise: High-intensity and resistance training stimulate NAD⁺ biosynthesis.
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Sleep and fasting: Support sirtuin activation and NAD⁺ recycling.
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Nutrients: Niacin (B3), tryptophan, cysteine, and selenium are precursors for both pathways.
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Avoid overuse of alcohol and ultra-processed foods, which deplete both molecules.
Testing and Tracking Progress
The beauty of modern DBS (dried blood spot) testing is that you can measure these biomarkers at home with precision previously limited to research labs.
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The NAD⁺ Index Test quantifies NAD⁺, NADH, and related ratios for cellular energy insight.
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The Glutathione Index Test measures reduced and oxidised forms to gauge antioxidant capacity.
Tracking results every 3–6 months allows you to see how lifestyle, supplementation, or medical interventions influence your cellular health trajectory.
The Takeaway
Longevity isn’t about adding years — it’s about adding energy, resilience, and vitality to every year. Testing NAD⁺ and Glutathione together gives a more complete picture of how your cells age and recover. By supporting both, you’re not just improving how you feel today — you’re investing in the quality of tomorrow.
FAQs
1. How often should I test NAD⁺ and Glutathione?
Every 3–6 months is ideal to track the impact of diet, exercise, and supplement changes.
2. Can I boost NAD⁺ and Glutathione naturally?
Yes — through nutrient-dense foods, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management. Supplementation can support deficient levels.
3. Are NAD⁺ and Glutathione tests safe for home collection?
Absolutely. Vitamin Test Kits use CE-marked dried blood spot kits designed for easy and accurate self-collection.
