Real Foodology Podcast Summary
Episode Title: NAD+, Detox, Fertility & More: Why This Molecule Matters So Much | Dr. Greg Kelly of Qualia
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Host: Courtney Swan
Guest: Dr. Gregory Kelly, VP of Product Development at Qualia Life, Naturopathic Physician, Author of Shapeshift
Introduction
In this engaging episode of the Real Foodology podcast, host Courtney Swan welcomes Dr. Gregory Kelly from Qualia Life to delve deep into the significance of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) in our health and longevity. Courtney expresses her enthusiasm for Qualia Life supplements, highlighting their trustworthiness and effectiveness, which sets the stage for an enlightening discussion about NAD+ and its multifaceted roles in the body.
Understanding NAD+: What Is It and Its Role in the Body
Dr. Kelly begins by explaining the fundamental functions of NAD+. He outlines two pivotal roles:
- Energy Production: NAD+ is essential for cellular energy production within the mitochondria, converting the energy from food into ATP, the cell's energy currency.
- Cellular Protection and Detoxification: When NAD+ is phosphorylated to NADP, it aids in building molecules and detoxifying cells, such as helping glutathione function effectively.
As Dr. Kelly states at [02:41], “NAD is super important to make cellular energy” and plays a crucial role in protecting cells against stress and damage.
NAD+ and Mitochondrial Function
Courtney connects NAD+ to mitochondrial health, emphasizing her understanding of mitochondria's role in energy production. Dr. Kelly confirms this connection, explaining that NAD+ is stored both inside and outside mitochondria and is vital for converting electrons in food into ATP.
At [06:19], Dr. Kelly elaborates, “NAD becomes NADH. It basically accepts that hydrogen, which is what powers the mitochondria.”
Benefits of NAD+: Energy, Vitality, and Longevity
The conversation shifts to the tangible benefits of NAD+ supplementation:
- Energy and Vitality: While NAD+ doesn't provide a stimulant-like energy boost, users report a subtle increase in vitality and reduced fatigue.
- Longevity and Aging: Studies, including those by David Sinclair, have linked increased NAD+ levels to extended lifespan and improved health in animal models.
Courtney reflects on the quality of life aspect, highlighting NAD+'s role in maintaining energy and clarity throughout different life stages. Dr. Kelly adds that maintaining optimal NAD+ levels can help prevent the decline associated with aging, thereby supporting a higher quality of life.
Natural Ways to Boost NAD+ Levels
Dr. Kelly discusses natural methods to enhance NAD+ levels, including:
- Dietary Sources: Consuming niacin (vitamin B3) and tryptophan-rich foods can aid in NAD+ synthesis.
- Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to positively influence NAD+ levels, although supplementation may still be necessary for optimal levels.
At [20:42], Dr. Kelly mentions, “Tryptophan... can be made into NAD... but we don't get large amounts in our diet.”
NAD+ and Fertility
Addressing fertility, Dr. Kelly speculates that NAD+ may positively impact reproductive health due to its role in energy production and DNA repair. While animal studies suggest a connection, human research remains limited.
As Courtney shares her personal journey towards fertility, Dr. Kelly acknowledges the potential benefits of NAD+ in supporting reproductive cells, which are highly energy-dependent.
Qualia Life’s NAD+ Supplement: Innovation and Formulation
Dr. Kelly introduces Qualia Life's NAD+ supplement, Qualia NAD Plus, highlighting its innovative formulation designed to maximize NAD+ production:
- Niagen (Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride): A clinically studied and stable form of NAD+ precursor.
- Supportive Nutrients: The supplement includes a blend of B vitamins, magnesium, and other cofactors essential for ATP production and NAD+ synthesis.
At [27:56], Dr. Kelly explains, “Qualia NAD uses niagen, which is the clinically studied form of nicotinamide riboside... combined with a bunch of things that help those molecules progress through their pathways to get and be made into NAD.”
Safety, Dosage, and Best Practices
The discussion turns to the safety and optimal usage of NAD+ supplements:
- Dosage: Dr. Kelly emphasizes adhering to recommended dosages, noting that excessive intake can lead to insulin resistance and strain methylation pathways.
- Timing: Taking NAD+ supplements in the morning aligns with the body’s natural circadian rhythms and supports daytime energy and metabolic health.
At [37:28], Dr. Kelly states, “With the amount that's supplied in Qualia NAD, I'm really comfortable that we help move people over time into that just right zone without the concern of too much.”
Ensuring Supplement Quality and Avoiding Fraud
Dr. Kelly warns against purchasing supplements from unreliable sources like Amazon, citing instances of fraudulent products lacking actual NAD+ precursors. He advocates for buying directly from reputable manufacturers, such as Qualia Life, to ensure product integrity and efficacy.
As emphasized at [57:51], “It's important for listeners... to know one that compound that you're relying on to build NAD is actually in the product.”
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Courtney wraps up the episode by reiterating her trust in Qualia Life supplements and encourages listeners to utilize a special discount code "Realfoodology" for 15% off purchases at Qualia Life's website. Dr. Kelly adds final remarks on the importance of maintaining optimal NAD+ levels for overall health and longevity, inviting listeners to follow Qualia Life on Instagram and explore their educational resources.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Gregory Kelly [02:41]: “NAD is super important to make cellular energy.”
- Courtney Swan [07:06]: “…it’s like a stimulant. Yeah, okay.”
- Dr. Gregory Kelly [13:08]: “We have some degree of disability or chronic issue that’s impacting us severely enough that we don’t actually get to live our life to our fullest.”
- Dr. Gregory Kelly [29:35]: "Magnesium is a mitochondrial mineral first and foremost, ... it’s needed to make ATP, but it's also always needed for ATP to be active."
- Dr. Gregory Kelly [37:28]: “With the amount that's supplied in Qualia NAD, I'm really comfortable that we help move people over time into that just right zone without the concern of too much.”
Additional Resources:
- Qualia Life Website: www.qualialife.com
- Instagram: @qualialife
- Discount Code: Use "Realfoodology" at qualialife.com/realfoodology for 15% off any purchase.
Produced By: Wellness Loud
Social Media Tags: @realfoodology, @qualialife
Disclaimer: The content of this summary is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.