TL;DR: NAD+ Supplements May Help Alleviate Long COVID Symptoms
Boosting NAD+, a molecule essential for cell energy and repair, could improve symptoms of long COVID like fatigue and brain fog, according to preliminary research. While results are mixed, NAD+ links to better mitochondrial health and recovery align with longevity-focused diets, particularly those rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, which naturally supports NAD+ levels.
• Foods that boost NAD+: Omega-3-rich fish, B vitamins in legumes, green vegetables, citrus, and olive oil.
• Eating tips: Opt for Maltese dishes rich in fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients like lampuki or vegetable soups.
• At restaurants: Choose menus that prioritize whole foods and anti-inflammatory options for optimal cellular health.
Support your recovery or wellness goals by exploring Malta’s Mediterranean offerings with MELA AI, featuring nutrient-forward restaurant options that celebrate vitality.
Scientists are exploring new strategies to tackle the lingering effects of long COVID, and NAD+ supplements are emerging as a potential game-changer. A recent clinical trial has indicated that boosting NAD+, a molecule critical to cellular energy and repair, might alleviate common long COVID symptoms like fatigue and brain fog. While the results are preliminary, they align with research on mitochondria-boosting diets and lifestyle changes, offering hope for long-haulers eager to regain vitality.
Let’s unpack the science behind NAD+, its connection to health and longevity, and how you can apply these findings to your diet, whether cooking at home or dining out in Malta. Spoiler: Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine might already hold some of the keys to these benefits.
What Did the Research Discover About NAD+ and Long COVID?
The recent study, conducted by Massachusetts General Hospital and published in eClinicalMedicine, explored whether supplementing with nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor to NAD+, could improve symptoms of long COVID. NAD+ is a coenzyme present in every cell of your body, playing a critical role in DNA repair, energy production, and regulating inflammation. With viral infections like COVID-19 often depleting NAD+ levels, researchers hypothesized that restoring its levels could support recovery.
In the trial, participants took 2,000 mg of NR daily for up to 20 weeks, with mixed yet intriguing results. While overall cognitive improvements weren’t significantly different from those on a placebo, some participants reported better sleep, mood, and reduced fatigue after 10 weeks. These outliers suggest NAD+ could benefit some individuals more than others, highlighting the need for further studies.
Why Does This Matter for Your Health?
Long COVID is more than just lingering tiredness, it’s a complex condition rooted in chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disrupted energy metabolism. NAD+ is crucial because it fuels mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of your cells. When NAD+ is depleted, energy production falters, compounding fatigue and brain fog.
The study’s findings also align with broader research demonstrating NAD+’s role in aging, immune response, and recovery. This connection underscores how your diet and lifestyle impact your cellular health over time. A nutrient-dense diet can naturally help support NAD+ levels, making what you eat a vital part of staying energized and resilient, particularly post-illness.
Which Foods Naturally Boost NAD+ Levels?
Certain nutrients are known to enhance NAD+ production or complement its effects on the body. Here’s how you can adjust your diet to leverage NAD+ science:
- B Vitamins: Foods rich in niacin and other B vitamins are foundational for NAD+ synthesis. Include legumes, fortified cereals, and fish.
- Polyphenols and Antioxidants: Mitochondria-protecting compounds come from colorful fruits and vegetables like spinach, kale, tomatoes, and berries. Maltese cuisine’s love for fresh, locally grown veggies is your ally.
- Tryptophan: This amino acid, found in turkey, eggs, and oats, plays a key role in the synthesis of NAD+.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like tuna and salmon, these enhance mitochondrial efficiency and support brain health.
- Mediterranean Staples (Olive Oil, Citrus, and Herbs): Olive oil promotes anti-inflammatory pathways, while citrus adds antioxidants crucial for cellular health.
Restaurant Tip: When dining out in Malta, look for dishes like baked lampuki (a local fish high in Omega-3s) or zalzett tal-Malti with fresh greens on menus. MELA AI’s restaurant database can help you find venues offering nutrient-forward options.
How Can Restaurants Infuse NAD+ Insights Into Their Menus?
Restaurants in Malta are known for their emphasis on healthful, locally sourced ingredients, and now science gives them one more reason to champion this tradition. Chefs can use NAD+ science to:
- Highlight NAD+-Supporting Ingredients: Incorporate more fatty fish, pulses, and green veggies into their menus.
- Build Seasonal Specials: Take cues from Malta’s farming seasons, creating rotating dishes that maximize fresh polyphenol-rich produce.
- Educate Diners: Feature menu notes that describe how certain ingredients, like spinach or whole grains, support energy and brain function.
- Embrace Innovation: Experiment with fermentation and niacin-rich recipes, including cultured veggies or artisanal baked goods.
Are you a healthy-food seeker? Explore MELA AI’s Cuisines section to discover dining destinations promoting Mediterranean longevity with evidence-backed ingredients.
Is NAD+ the Secret to Better Aging and Longevity?
Though long COVID has thrust NAD+ into the spotlight, its role in longevity has been studied for years. Experts like Dr. David Sinclair, a leading longevity researcher, emphasize that maintaining high NAD+ levels contributes to cellular repair and longevity. However, NAD+ supplementation can be hit-or-miss. Instead of relying solely on pills, focusing on NAD+-enhancing foods and a lifestyle that supports mitochondrial health is a smarter long-term strategy.
This is where Malta’s food culture shines. Traditional Mediterranean diets are celebrated for their longevity benefits, making them a natural fit for those seeking foods that nurture both short-term performance and long-term vitality.
Limitations of Science: What Don’t We Know Yet?
It’s important to approach NAD+ supplementation with realistic expectations. While preliminary research is promising, the study was small, with only 58 participants. Not everyone saw measurable benefits, underscoring the need for larger, well-funded research.
Currently:
- We don’t know the exact dose or combination of factors that ensure consistent results.
- Individual factors, such as gender, baseline inflammation levels, and genetic predispositions, influence your response to NAD+.
For now, diet and lifestyle offer the most accessible and risk-free ways to optimize NAD+ levels. Remember: whole, minimally processed foods trump isolated supplements.
How Should Diners Act on This?
If long COVID has left you drained or if you simply want to optimize your diet for daily energy and long-term cellular health, focus on NAD+-friendly eating habits. Here’s how to put research into action:
- When Eating Out: Choose restaurants that feature dishes with legumes, greens, and Omega-3s. Look for lean proteins like fish paired with antioxidant-rich sides like roasted beetroot or citrus-chickpea salads.
- At Home: Cook staples like minestrone, a Maltese vegetable soup, or experiment with niacin-rich mackerel fillets over fresh tabbouleh.
- Ask Questions: When in doubt, ask your server about the preparation methods or provenance of vegetables and fish.
With the help of MELA AI, you can easily filter restaurants that prioritize nutrient-forward dining aligned with modern science.
Final Thoughts on NAD+ Science and Eating in Malta
As science advances, it continues to validate that good, traditional eating habits are deeply tied to longevity and wellness. NAD+ research, while still emerging, underscores the importance of whole foods and anti-inflammatory diets. Whether you’re recovering from an illness or pursuing energy optimization, these discoveries remind us that the Mediterranean lifestyle remains one of the best paths to health.
Explore Malta’s vibrant dining scene with MELA AI to find restaurants tapping into nutritional science while celebrating local food culture. Let every meal be a step toward better health, and an unforgettable dining experience!
FAQ: NAD+ Supplements, Long COVID, and Health Opportunities in Malta
What is NAD+ and why is it important for recovery from long COVID?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body that plays a critical role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and regulating inflammation. Many viral infections, including COVID-19, deplete NAD+ levels, potentially contributing to lingering symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, and disrupted energy metabolism in long COVID patients. Recent research suggests restoring NAD+ levels through diet, lifestyle, or supplementation could aid in recovery by revitalizing the mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of cells, and reducing inflammation. A clinical trial found supplementation with 2,000 mg per day of nicotinamide riboside (a precursory form of NAD+) showed potential symptom improvements in sleep, mood, and fatigue after 10 weeks for some long COVID patients. Although still in early stages, NAD+ is regarded as essential not only for recovery but also for overall health and longevity.
Can NAD+ supplementation help with symptoms like brain fog and sleep issues?
While clinical trials are ongoing, early data suggests that NAD+ supplementation may partially improve some long COVID symptoms, particularly fatigue, sleep disturbances, and brain fog. A leading 20-week trial on 58 adults found no major differences in cognitive improvements between NAD+ supplements and a placebo group. However, some participants taking nicotinamide riboside supplements reported individual improvements in symptoms after consistent supplementation for over 10 weeks. As a coenzyme, NAD+ enhances mitochondrial function, which is essential for maintaining energy and cognitive clarity. Although supplements show promise, researchers emphasize the importance of combining them with NAD+-boosting lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, reducing stress, and engaging in light exercise to optimize benefits.
How can Mediterranean and Maltese diets naturally boost NAD+ levels?
Mediterranean diets, including traditional Maltese cuisine, are rich in nutrients that naturally boost NAD+ production. Foods high in B vitamins (such as legumes, lean meats, and fortified cereals) and tryptophan (found in eggs, turkey, and oats) are crucial for NAD+ synthesis. Antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish like lampuki (a Maltese specialty) support mitochondrial function, further enhancing NAD+ levels. Olive oil, herbs, and citrus, staples in Maltese cooking, also promote anti-inflammatory pathways vital for cellular health. For those dining out, choosing dishes with grilled fish, fresh greens, lentils, or tomato-based sauces can ensure NAD+-friendly eating, aligning well with both tradition and health science.
Are there specific restaurants in Malta that align with health-focused dining?
Yes, Malta offers a variety of restaurants that embrace health-conscious dining, often incorporating fresh, local, and Mediterranean ingredients. To explore options, use MELA AI – Malta Restaurants Directory. MELA highlights restaurants offering nutrient-forward dishes that cater to diners seeking NAD+ benefits and other health-conscious choices. From fresh lampuki with greens to minestrone soups packed with polyphenol-rich vegetables, these restaurants ensure that you can dine out without compromising your wellness goals. For example, several establishments listed on MELA specialize in Mediterranean dietary principles, renowned for supporting longevity and vitality.
How do science-backed dietary habits align with Malta’s culinary traditions?
Malta’s culinary traditions align seamlessly with modern science on NAD+ and energy metabolism. Known for fresh ingredients and anti-inflammatory cooking methods, Maltese dishes already include core elements like nutrient-dense vegetables, omega-3-rich fish, and healthy fats like olive oil. For instance, preparing dishes like fenek (rabbit stew) or lampuki pie alongside a citrus-herb garnish supports cellular health while preserving cultural heritage. Scientific research into diets that boost NAD+ and mitochondrial function further underscores the value of Mediterranean eating patterns, proving that traditional methods are both practical and nutritionally advantageous for maintaining health and energy.
What role does NAD+ play in overall aging and longevity?
NAD+ has long been studied for its role in aging and longevity, as it contributes to cellular repair, energy metabolism, and reducing oxidative stress. Decreased NAD+ levels have been linked to age-related declines in health, making the molecule a focal point for research into healthier aging. Routine habits like consuming NAD+-supporting foods, staying physically active, limiting processed food intake, and maintaining a clean Mediterranean-style diet help maintain NAD+ levels over time. In Malta, traditional eating habits rich in niacin, polyphenols, and omega-3s (all critical for NAD+ production) can provide the foundation for longer, healthier lives.
How can local Maltese restaurants market their dishes as NAD+ friendly?
Restaurants in Malta can market their dishes as NAD+ friendly by incorporating nutrient-focused ingredients and translating the science into appealing menu descriptions. Highlighting foods rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3s can resonate with health-conscious diners. Dishes like baked lampuki served with kale and citrus sides, or chickpea-based soups, align perfectly with NAD+ science. Partnering with platforms like MELA AI can enhance visibility among diners eager to support restaurants offering health-driven options. The MELA sticker, awarded to restaurants prioritizing wellness, signifies a credible commitment to health-conscious dining, attracting both locals and tourists seeking informed dining choices.
Is it better to take NAD+ supplements or stick to food sources?
NAD+ supplements, particularly those containing nicotinamide riboside, can be an effective way to target depleted NAD+ levels in specific cases like long COVID recovery. However, researchers caution against relying solely on supplements as long-term efficacy and safety need further study. For most people, a balanced diet rich in NAD+-boosting nutrients like B vitamins, antioxidants, and tryptophan is sufficient. Food sources not only contribute to NAD+ production but also support overall health with their fiber, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. Regularly including nutrient-dense foods as part of a Mediterranean diet is the most sustainable and comprehensive approach for maintaining high NAD+ levels.
What are the limitations of NAD+ research so far?
While NAD+ research offers exciting prospects, it remains in early stages with certain limitations. For instance, clinical trials studying NAD+ supplementation for long COVID have been small and show varied results, emphasizing individual differences in response to supplementation. Questions about the optimal dosage, duration, or combined interventions also remain unanswered. Furthermore, long COVID is a multifaceted condition, with symptoms potentially stemming from a combination of inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and other mechanisms, which NAD+ alone may not entirely address. Despite these gaps, the molecule’s foundational role in cellular energy and health makes it a promising area for further investigation.
How can MELA AI help diners maintain a health-conscious lifestyle in Malta?
MELA AI is an invaluable resource for diners in Malta seeking nutrient-rich, health-focused meals. Through its platform, users can discover restaurants that prioritize fresh, local ingredients and incorporate scientific insights into their menus. Offering filters for NAD+-friendly options such as fish dishes, vegetable sides, and lean proteins, MELA AI makes it easy to stay aligned with nutritional goals, whether recovering from an illness or supporting overall health. Additionally, the prestigious MELA sticker indicates restaurants committed to wellness, giving diners confidence in their choices. Explore the MELA AI Restaurant Directory to find venues bridging traditional Maltese cuisine with the latest in science-backed health trends.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
