December 04, 2025

Low Metabolism and NAD+ Deficiency Implicated in Wasting Syndrome

7 minutes

Muscle wasting in cancer and chronic illness is driven by a breakdown in cellular energy production, not just poor appetite or inflammation
Low levels of NAD+, the molecule that powers your cells' mitochondria, cause muscles to weaken and shrink even when calorie intake is sufficient
Researchers found that restoring NAD+ with niacin (vitamin B3) helps rebuild muscle mass, improve strength, and stabilize energy metabolism — even during chemotherapy
Seed oils high in linoleic acid interfere with how your cells make energy and promote chronic inflammation, while replacing them with stable fats like grass fed butter or ghee supports recovery
Simple strategies such as taking niacinamide, eating nutrient-dense whole foods, reducing stress, and getting regular sunlight help recharge your metabolism and rebuild strength from the inside out

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14871,487 ratings

December 04, 2025

7 minutes

Muscle wasting in cancer and chronic illness is driven by a breakdown in cellular energy production, not just poor appetite or inflammation
Low levels of NAD+, the molecule that powers your cells' mitochondria, cause muscles to weaken and shrink even when calorie intake is sufficient
Researchers found that restoring NAD+ with niacin (vitamin B3) helps rebuild muscle mass, improve strength, and stabilize energy metabolism — even during chemotherapy
Seed oils high in linoleic acid interfere with how your cells make energy and promote chronic inflammation, while replacing them with stable fats like grass fed butter or ghee supports recovery
Simple strategies such as taking niacinamide, eating nutrient-dense whole foods, reducing stress, and getting regular sunlight help recharge your metabolism and rebuild strength from the inside out

...more