NADH is a natural enzyme that can help with energy production by boosting the levels of ATP in the body. NADH is a form of vitamin B3 and is a precursor to ATP. Certain subsets of CFS patients may have low levels of ATP in the body. This group may be of benefit to take NADH supplements. A study out of Georgetown School of Medicine showed that 31% of the CFS patients studied, received a benefit from supplements of NADH. They had improvements in physical activity scores and cognitive scores.
By raising the levels of NADH in the body, there is a boost in neurotransmitter production and an overall lift in mood, energy, and cognitive functioning. It is now being shown that Nadh can improve dopamine production in Parkinson’s disease patients, thus reducing symptoms. Its can increase the levels of of an enzyme called H4BP that help produce dopamine and also increase tyrosine hydroxylase levels and overall dopamine levels.
It is even being seen as showing potential as an antidepressant, due to these neurotransmitter boosting abilities. In addition to boosting dopamine levels in the brain, it may also boost serotonin by saving tryptophan which is used up by the body at the cost of NADH. Also low ATP levels are found in certain areas of the brain in depressed patients. By increaseing ATP levels in the brain, you might be able to decrease the level of depression.
