Severe niacin (precursor for NAD) deficiency is known as pellagra which literally means rough skin. Pellagra is characterized by the “3 D’s” and hopefully not the 4th:
- Dermatitis (dark, thick, scaly skin in sun-exposed areas)
- Diarrhea
- Dementia
- Death
There can also be bright red tongue, mouth inflammation, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
Neurologic symptoms of deficiency include headache, fatigue, depression, apathy, disorientation, memory loss and delirium in severe cases.
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an activated form of niacin that is an essential coenzyme found in every cell. It plays a critical role in energy production by helping the body convert nutrients into usable fuel at the cellular level. It is also involved in DNA repair (helps prevent cancer), cell-to-cell communication, and the regulation of gene expression. This is uniquely important for longevity, health regeneration, and disease prevention. It is one of the primary nutrients needed for energy production by the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of the cells. It also plays a role in neuronal regeneration, helping the body reverse oxidative stress and damage caused by aging and life stressors.
