Sleep is an essential part of our daily routine that helps us maintain our physical and mental health.  

However, as we age, our sleep cycles change, making it harder for us to maintain a regular sleep pattern.  

In this blog post, we will explore the complex relationship between NAD and our circadian rhythm and how it affects our sleep cycle. 

NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in many biological processes in our body. It is involved in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and gene expression regulation 1.  

 

In terms of circadian rhythms, NAD helps regulate our sleep/wake cycles to ensure that our body reaps all the benefits of a good night’s sleep 2.  

However, after the age of 20, our body’s production of NAD declines 3, which disrupts our circadian rhythm and makes it harder for us to maintain a regular sleep cycle. 

Research has shown that NAD levels have a strong relationship with the sleep-wake cycle and age-related diseases.  

Disrupted sleep-wake and molecular circadian rhythms are a feature of aging associated with metabolic disease and reduced levels of NAD+. 

There are several factors that contribute to disrupted sleep patterns as we age.  

These include;  

• lack of exercise, 
• working night-shifts  
• using electronic devices in bed 
• life stressors 
• poor sleep hygiene 
• caffeine 
• nicotine 
• alcohol  
• medications.  

 

However, research has shown that NAD plays an even greater role in sleep quality as we age. 

In conclusion, maintaining healthy levels of NAD is essential for maintaining a regular sleep cycle as we age.  

While there are several factors that contribute to disrupted sleep patterns as we age, research has shown that NAD plays an even greater role in sleep quality.  

By understanding the complex relationship between NAD and our circadian rhythm, we can take steps to improve our sleep quality and maintain good health. 

 

References: 

1 Invita Cryo New York City. (2021). NAD, Sleep, Aging and Disease: How NAD IV therapy can help turn back the clock on your health.  

2 NMN. (2016). NAD+ and the Sleep-Wake Cycle.  

3 Braidy et al. (2019). Age related changes in NAD+ metabolism oxidative stress and Sirt1 activity in wistar rats. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0224040. 

4 Bellet MM et al., (2013). Circadian clock regulates the host response to Salmonella. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 110(24): 9897-902. 

5 Ramsey KM et al., (2009). Circadian Clock Feedback Cycle Through NAMPT-Mediated NAD+ Biosynthesis. 

6 Sleep Health Foundation Australia. (2021). Sleep Hygiene Tips for Adults.