NADH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride, naturally occurs in all living cells and triggers both energy production and the development of neurotransmitters - in effect boosting physical and mental performance.
While NADH is not new in the US market, the Californian supplement maker explains that Oekopharm's unique technology is a first because it stabilizes NADH, thereby helping to promote optimal absorption.
Natrol is introducing stand-alone supplements using the ingredient technology in two doses - 10mg and 20mg. Oekopharm has said that it is also likely to be used in combination with other nutritional ingredients in the future.
Non-stable NADH is very sensitive when exposed to electron-robbing molecules such as oxygen, Toby Carlin spokesperson for the Oekopharm-Group told NutraIngredients-USA.com. "That means, if NADH and oxygen get in contact, NADH immediately would loose its electron (hydride) and would get oxidized into NAD."
Stabilized, intact NADH appears to work by entering "fatigued" cells to promote cellular energy production in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), says Natrol.
"The proprietary chlorophyll-based stabilizing technology behind Natrol NADH helps promote optimal absorption, allowing individuals to achieve maximum cellular energy benefits," said Wayne Bos, president and chief executive officer, Natrol Inc.
In vivo experiments with rats (Pharmacology and Toxicology, 2002 Vol. 90, pp. 220-225) have reported that orally administered NADH leads to an increase in NADH levels in the brain. This, said Carlin, indicates the good absorption of NADH from the gut.
"From our experience, stabilized NADH enhances the activity in organs that develop a high metabolic turnover, like the brain, the circulation system, and muscles," he said.
Natrol has previously marketed supplements using NADH from other sources at smaller doses, such as its Enada NADH 5mg.