By Adrienne Dellwo 
Medically reviewed by Scott Zashin, MD
November 24, 2020

NADH, or reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is made in your body from niacin, a type of B vitamin. NADH plays a role in generating energy in the body and is sometimes taken in supplement form to treat chronic fatigue syndrome (also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis or ME/CFS).

Alternative practitioners believe that NADH can boost energy levels and improve mental clarity, alertness, concentration, and memory. Some athletes even take NADH to enhance performance and endurance. Although there are some promising findings, the evidence supporting NADH's use is often mixed or contradictory.

Health Benefits

Proponents of NADH supplements believe that they can boost the natural effects of NADH in the brain. Some even go so far as to suggest they can restore memory and cognitive function in people with Alzheimer's disease.

There are even ongoing investigations as to whether NADH, delivered by injection or intravenously (into a vein), can slow the progression of Parkinson's disease.

Here is what some of the current research says:

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The bulk of the current research has been focused on NADH's use in treating ME/CFS. Much of the evidence is anecdotal or based on rational hypotheses rather than clinical fact.

Among some of the theories as to why NADH may be beneficial:

- NADH helps enzymes in your body convert food into energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Studies suggest that some people with ME/CFS have low levels of ATP.
Research also shows that NADH can stimulate brain function, which may help alleviate the cognitive dysfunction associated with ME/CFS.

- NADH may reduce the fatigue by restoring the function of the mitochondria (tiny structures that power your cells). ME/CFS is believed to involve mitochondrial dysfunction.

- NADH may help your brain create neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) that influence mood and cognitive function (including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.)