The Genius Life 541: Can a Pill Help You Live Longer? The Science Behind NAD and Longevity | Robert Fried
Jan 12, 2026
In this discussion, Robert Fried, CEO of Tru Niagen and a longevity entrepreneur with a diverse background, dives into the fascinating world of NAD and its role in cellular energy and aging. He explains how boosting NAD supports DNA repair and mitochondrial health, linking it to conditions like Parkinson's. Fried offers insights on the effectiveness of nicotinamide riboside (NR) as a supplement, discusses environmental toxins' impact on mitochondrial function, and shares his journey from Hollywood to the forefront of longevity science.
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NAD Powers Cellular Energy And Repair
- NAD is a universal coenzyme central to cellular energy production and DNA repair.
- Elevating NAD increases mitochondrial biogenesis and ATP yield per mitochondrion without extra calories.
Declining NAD Links To Impaired Repair
- NAD levels decline with age and under metabolic stress, impairing repair processes.
- Raising NAD improves cellular repair, reducing molecular damage and supporting healthspan.
Strong Preclinical Support Across Species
- Animal studies consistently link low NAD to age-related conditions across tissues and species.
- Preclinical models show NAD elevation prevents or treats many aging-related dysfunctions.
