LIFTS Episode 120 – The Molecule Matters: How NAD Actually Works in the Body | with Rachele Pojednic

This episode of LIFTS dives deep into the science and reality behind NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a critical molecule for cellular energy, DNA repair, and aging. Hosts Matthew Januzek and Mohamed Iqbal welcome Rachel Pojednic, Chief Science Officer at Restore Hyper Wellness, to unpack the hype around NAD supplementation in longevity clinics. Pojednic explains that while NAD levels decline significantly with age—by 30–50% in midlife—most people don’t understand the molecule’s true biology. She debunks the myth that IV NAD directly boosts cellular NAD, revealing that the body cannot absorb intact NAD from the bloodstream and instead converts it into precursors like NR or NMN, which can enter cells. The discussion highlights the inefficiency and adverse effects (chest pain, nausea) of IV NAD, while advocating for oral or intramuscular delivery of precursors like NR. Pojednic stresses the lack of reliable testing for NAD levels and cautions against high-dose supplementation, especially for those with cancer history, due to unresolved safety concerns. She calls for more rigorous science in the wellness industry, urging consumers and practitioners to prioritize evidence over influencer hype. The episode also explores broader implications for the wellness industry, including the risks of unregulated peptides, the dangers of over-reliance on anecdotal evidence, and the urgent need for transparency in supply chains and clinical data. Pojednic emphasizes that while some therapies like infrared sauna show early promise for mental health, many claims lack robust evidence. She advocates for a 'Science 2.0' approach—moving beyond intuitive assumptions to data-driven validation. Key takeaways include: start NAD precursor supplementation earlier (in your 30s), prioritize precursors like NR over IV NAD, avoid high-dose IVs due to inefficiency and side effects, and always consult qualified experts before offering or using these therapies. The tone is cautiously optimistic, grounded in science, and deeply critical of the current state of wellness marketing.