Can NAD+ Boost Fertility? The Science Behind Mitochondria and Egg Quality
- Dr. Alex Lucyshen
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
If you’re over 30, trying to conceive and wondering why your body doesn’t seem to be keeping up despite your best efforts, you’re not alone. It might be time to consider NAD+ for boosting fertility.
We often focus on hormone levels, ovulation timing or fertility tracking when working toward pregnancy, but one of the most critical (and overlooked) factors is your cellular energy system. Specifically, your mitochondria. This is where NAD+ comes in.
As a fertility naturopath in Kelowna, these are the types of questions and concerns I help women with every day.
Let’s break down what is NAD+, why it matters for your fertility and how NAD+ therapy may help.
What is NAD+
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule found in every cell in your body. It plays a key role in energy production, DNA repair, hormone regulation and healthy aging. NAD+ is essential for mitochondrial function; think of it as the fuel for your cellular energy system.
NAD+ and fertility: the mitochondrial connection
Your eggs (oocytes) are among the most energy-demanding cells in your body. As you age, especially after 30, both mitochondrial function and NAD+ levels naturally decline. This impacts egg quality, ovulation, hormone regulation and overall reproductive potential.
Here’s how NAD+ influences fertility
Improves egg quality: By fueling mitochondrial activity, NAD+ supports egg maturation, chromosomal stability and energy production
Supports hormonal balance: NAD+ is involved in insulin sensitivity, cortisol regulation, and estrogen metabolism, all of which are essential for healthy cycles.
Enhances ovarian function: Studies show that improving NAD+ levels may delay ovarian aging and improve follicular response.
Reduces oxidative stress: NAD+ plays a role in cellular repair and antioxidant defense, protecting reproductive tissues from inflammation and damage.
In short, NAD+ helps your reproductive system function more efficiently at a cellular level.
Who might benefit from NAD+ fertility support?
NAD+ therapy may be especially helpful if you:
Are 35 or older and trying to conceive
Have a history of poor egg quality or low ovarian reserve
Are you navigating IUI or IVF cycles
Have PCOS, metabolic or blood sugar issues
Are you recovering from burnout, stress or a chronic illness
Want to optimize your preconception health naturally
It’s also supportive in cases of early aging, autoimmunity or after long-term hormonal contraceptive use.
How NAD+ therapy works
As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, I offer both NAD+ IV therapy and NAD+ injections.
NAD+ IV Therapy
Delivers a higher dose of NAD+ directly into the bloodstream
Typically infused over 1.5-3 hours
Ideal for rebuilding depleted levels and supporting mitochondrial intensive systems like fertility, brain health and recovery
NAD+ Injections
A quicker, lower-dose option
Great for ongoing support or as part of a broader fertility protocol
Typically given weekly or bi-weekly
We always tailor the plan based on your cycle, goals and lab results.
What the research says about NAD+ and fertility
Animal studies and emerging human research show that supplementing NAD+ can improve egg quality, ovarian reserve, and embryo development. It’s also being studied for its impact on PCOS, inflammation and healthy aging.
While more research is needed in humans, the clinical results in practice are promising. Especially when paired with foundational fertility care, such as hormone regulation, nutrient repletion, and stress management.
The bottom line
If you’re trying to conceive and feel like your energy, cycles or egg quality could use more support, NAD+ might be a missing piece. It won’t replace the foundations (like sleep, nutrition and hormone balance), but it can be a powerful cellular-level ally, especially if you are feeling drained, aging faster than you’d like or working through fertility treatments.
Ready to explore NAD+ for fertility?
Let's create a plan that supports your fertility from the inside out.
Offering naturopathy services in-person in Kelowna and virtually throughout BC.
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