Have you ever wondered if there are more natural ways to lower your high blood pressure,

guard against Alzheimer's, loose weight, feel better?

Well, it turns out there is.

Welcome to the Nutrition Facts podcast.

I'm your host, Dr. Michael Greger.

Today we wrap up our series on the enzyme NAD Plus, and we start with a cautionary tale about

NAD boosting supplements.

Most of the reported side effects for NAB precursors like NAM, NR, and NMN are relatively

rare and minor, for example, diarrhea, nausea, rashes, rashes, hot flashes, and leg cramps.

Both NR and NMN raise NAM level, so may shear in the same concerns regarding searchwind inhibition, methyl depletion, and potential adverse effects of NAM breakdown products.

Another theoretical concern of NAD boosting is the exacerbation of infections by a group of

bacteria called homophilus, from the Greek meaning blood-loving, though can also cause infections

of the lung, brain, throat, flesh, and joints.

Homophilous bacteria lack the ability to make NAD, so rely on host levels,

raising the possibility that higher blood levels might worsen the disease course of infected individuals.

Ironically, elevated NAD levels may also fuel immune system overreaction in cases of autoimmune and inflammatory disease.

When fully activated, the immune system is voracious.

The immune reaction to a blood infection or extensive burns

can burn 4,000 calories a day,

approximating military training in the Arctic.

Since NAD is used by cells to produce energy,

it's no surprise that we find the primary NAD synthesizing enzyme strongly upregulated in tissues that are actively inflamed.

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