EP 1253
1253. The Secret Molecule for Endless Energy | Dr. Andrew Salzman
In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Dave Asprey and Dr. Andrew Salzman (Chief Medical Officer of Wonderfeel) dive deep into NAD—the molecule that fuels energy, repairs DNA, and slows aging. As NAD levels decline with age, it accelerates fatigue, brain fog, and disease, but Dr. Salzman reveals the fastest, most effective ways to restore it. From cutting-edge NAD supplements to CD38 inhibitors that prevent its depletion, this episode unpacks the next generation of longevity science and how you can harness it to stay energized, sharp, and resilient for decades to come.
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In this Episode of The Human Upgrade™...
Could a single molecule be the difference between vibrant longevity and early decline?
Dr. Andrew Salzman—Harvard-trained physician, scientist, and creator of the first PARP1 inhibitor, Chief Medical Officer of Wonderfeel—joins Dave to reveal the real key to living longer, fighting disease, and maximizing your energy: NAD.
This master molecule fuels your mitochondria, DNA repair, and cellular resilience, but here’s the catch—it plummets as you age. That means more fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and higher risks of disease. But what if you could stop the decline and even reverse it?
Dr. Salzman breaks down the game-changing science behind NAD, CD38, and cellular repair—and the fastest, most effective ways to optimize your levels for peak performance, health, and longevity.
Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about aging, pharmaceuticals vs. supplements, and the radical new approach to living better, longer.
What You’ll Learn:
- The #1 reason your NAD is disappearing—and how to fix it
- Why NAD is the missing link in energy, DNA repair, and disease prevention
- The hidden enzyme (CD38) that’s sabotaging your longevity
- How to supercharge mitochondria, optimize blood flow, and fight aging at the source
- Why the supplement industry has it wrong—and the best way to boost NAD naturally
- The shocking truth about the FDA, pharmaceuticals, and the future of anti-aging medicine
“Aging is an inflammatory event. If we rely entirely on the pharmaceutical process for the discovery of the next generation of drugs, we’re going to be waiting a long time. I don’t have the time. And a lot of other people don’t have the time.”
Andrew Salzman
00:00 Trailer
A sneak peek into the groundbreaking conversation on NAD, longevity, and cellular health.
01:07 Introduction and Episode Overview
Dave sets the stage for a deep dive into NAD, its role in longevity, and why this episode is essential listening.
02:29 Meet Dr. Andrew Salzman
A Harvard-trained physician, researcher, and biotech innovator who has shaped modern longevity science.
02:36 From Physician to Researcher
Dr. Salzman shares his journey from ICU physician to pioneering life-extending interventions.
03:39 Pharmaceuticals vs. Nutritionals
Why Dr. Salzman transitioned from pharmaceutical development to cutting-edge nutraceuticals.
04:17 The Role of NAD in Longevity
How NAD acts as the master molecule for energy production, DNA repair, and aging prevention.
06:32 Challenges in Longevity Research
The obstacles slowing down groundbreaking anti-aging treatments—and how to overcome them.
12:58 Understanding NAD and PARP
Breaking down how NAD fuels DNA repair and the role of PARP in maintaining cellular integrity.
14:34 NAD’s Impact on Health
From mitochondria to metabolism, how NAD influences every aspect of health and vitality.
23:19 Gut Health and Longevity
The surprising link between gut permeability, inflammation, and accelerated aging.
27:43 Innovations in NAD Supplementation
How new advancements are making NAD optimization faster, more effective, and more accessible.
41:27 Customer Feedback and Product Effectiveness
Real-world results from people experiencing the benefits of NAD supplementation.
42:41 Surprising Benefits of NAD for Sexual Health
How NAD supports blood flow, hormone function, and even enhances libido and performance.
44:47 NAD and Vascular Health
Why NAD is critical for cardiovascular function, blood pressure, and circulation.
48:46 NAD’s Role in Aging and Longevity
The cellular mechanisms that determine lifespan—and how to extend yours.
54:03 NAD and Lifestyle Choices
How diet, exercise, and inflammation impact NAD levels and overall health.
01:03:02 NAD and Cognitive Function
The role of NAD in brain health, memory, and preventing neurodegenerative decline.
01:06:18 NAD and Exercise
How NAD supports muscle recovery, endurance, and athletic performance.
01:13:42 NAD and Sleep
The connection between NAD, mitochondrial function, and optimizing sleep quality.
01:21:54 Final Thoughts on NAD and Longevity
Dr. Salzman and Dave recap the biggest takeaways and what the future of longevity holds.
Resources:
- Dave Asprey’s New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated/
- Wonderfeel Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/getwonderfeel/
- Wonderfeel Supplement: https://getwonderfeel.com/product/wonderfeel-youngr-nmn/?utm_source=Dave&utm_medium=podcast
- 2025 Biohacking Conference: https://biohackingconference.com/2025
- Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com
- Dave Asprey’s Website: https://daveasprey.com
- Dave Asprey’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/daveasprey
- Upgrade Collective – Join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com
- Own an Upgrade Labs: https://ownanupgradelabs.com
- Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com
- 40 Years of Zen – Neurofeedback Training for Advanced Cognitive Enhancement: https://40yearsofzen.com
Enjoy the show!
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