October is Menopause Awareness Month – a chance to break the taboo around menopause which is a natural biological occurrence in a woman’s life, during which the body experiences many changes. As the ovaries cease the production of key hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and eggs, fertility declines, leading to the cessation of menstruation. Alongside these changes, women often experience a range of symptoms, one of them being a reduction in libido. Emerging research suggests that NAD+ – a coenzyme central to cellular energy production – may play a role in naturally restoring sexual desire during menopause, which we will explore in this blog.
Menopause and Its Impact on Sexual Health
During menopause, hormone levels are on the decline. Oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels all decrease, directly impacting sexual desire and overall sexual health. Research shows that sexual desire and activity can decrease by over 40% within just a few years of entering menopause. These hormonal changes are often accompanied by diminished energy, mood swings, reduced sensitivity and vaginal dryness, which can affect a woman’s overall enjoyment of intimacy. Together, these factors contribute to a decline in libido and sexual well-being.
What is NAD+ and Its Role in the Body?
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a vital coenzyme involved in cellular energy production, playing a key role in converting food molecules like glucose into ATP, the body’s primary energy source. It is also involved in DNA repair, stress response, regulating neurotransmitters and hormonal balance. Our levels of NAD+ naturally decrease as we age, with a loss of 50-80% by ages 40-60, overlapping with the average age of menopause (51). Low NAD+ quantities contribute to fatigue, cellular damage and slower metabolic processes, all of which can exacerbate menopausal symptoms such as low libido.
To learn more about NAD+ decline, read here.
Can NAD+ Help Restore Libido During Menopause?
Scientific research indeed suggests that boosted NAD+ levels can increase sex drive during menopause, as when the body’s cells are functioning optimally, aspects such as mood, energy, and hormonal balance tend to improve. Certain libido-raising functions of NAD+ include:
- Supporting endocrines – NAD+ assists in the release of hormones by glands into the bloodstream, balancing hormones involved in sex drive like testosterone and oestrogen.
- Protecting neurons – NAD+ plays a key role in the antioxidant defence system, helping to combat oxidative stress and strengthen neurons. Lower stress and anxiety levels can lead to an increase in sexual arousal.
- Boosting energy – NAD+’s important role in cellular energy production means it can enhance overall wellbeing and sexual desire.
- Psychological well being – higher NAD+ levels alleviate feelings of fatigue and mood swings, which can help to boost sexual desire psychologically for menopausal women.
NAD+ Therapy as a Natural Option for Enhancing Libido
To restore sexual desire during menopause, a diet rich in vitamin B2 and B3 can be helpful as both are involved in the NAD+ production process. Intermittent fasting is also recommended as caloric restriction enhances energy efficiency in cells, improving mitochondrial function and NAD+ availability.
Taking supplements is another easy and effective way to bolster your NAD supply. NADclinic’s Enhanced Optima Max capsules contain 250mg of NAD+ and can be taken anytime and anywhere, providing a daily boost whenever you need it.
NAD+ IV therapy is a promising option for naturally boosting your body’s NAD+ levels. With our Bespoke IV Infusions, we can create a tailor-made programme to address your personal menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms through the power of NAD+.
The Takeaway
Research has shown the huge role that NAD+ plays in our overall health and vitality, thus impacting the way the body functions during menopause. By supporting hormonal balance, enhancing energy levels and promoting psychological well-being, NAD+ is a key player in our sex drive. Overall, NAD+ presents a compelling option for women experiencing menopausal symptoms and suffering from a lack of libido.
To take control of your sexual well-being, contact our friendly team at NADclinic to learn more about our NAD+ therapies and supplements.
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