#418: The Science of NAD+: Why Precursors & IVs Fail Without This Step With Courtney Van Bussum

Today, I'm joined by the insightful Courtney Van Bussum, a biomedical engineer and entrepreneur who has become a rising force in longevity science. Courtney shares how growing up in a family of healthcare innovators shaped her journey, and how she pivoted from startup life to tackling age-related challenges—especially when COVID brought her back to her roots and reignited her passion for cellular health. If you want to try Endotelio 1-MNA and save 10% click here and code NAT10 will be entered for you at checkout. Episode Timestamps: Welcome and introduction to Longevity Podcast ... 00:00:00 Challenging beliefs about aging and cellular health ... 00:12:00 Deep dive into NAD+ biochemistry and cellular function ... 00:13:08 NAD+/NADH balance: Why both matter ... 00:15:24 Why NAD+ declines: Not just aging, but increased degradation ...00:18:26 The role of CD38 and NMNT enzymes in NAD metabolism ... 00:20:14 Controversy and confusion: NAD+ precursors (NR, NMN) and IVs ... 00:22:28 Methylation's hidden importance in NAD supplementation ... 00:30:55 Supplementing 1-MNA: Understanding dosages and applications ... 00:50:54 Assessing NAD+ status: Biomarkers and limitations of testing ... 00:53:01 Lifestyle ROI: Sleep, exercise, and circadian rhythm for NAD preservation ... 00:57:14 Ketones: Beyond performance, supporting cellular energy and longevity ... 01:06:03 Future of NAD science: Anticipating new insights and risks ... 01:11:45 Confidence and humility: Advice for navigating the longevity field ... 01:18:52 Our Amazing Sponsors: Qualia Creatine+ by Qualia Life – A clinically formulated blend of two highly bioavailable forms of creatine plus magnesium and electrolytes to support lean muscle, cellular energy, and brain health—especially for women over 40 who naturally produce less with age. Go to qualialife.com/nathalie and use code NATHALIE to save up to 50%, plus an additional 15% off. Complete Liver Complex by LVLUP Health - supports your liver's natural detox pathways so your body can reset after the holidays without suffering. Go to lvluphealth.com and use code NAT for 20% off. Gut Essentials Bundle by Just Thrive Health – This powerhouse duo pairs the only probiotic clinically proven to arrive 100% alive in your gut with science-backed Digestive Bitters to reduce bloat, curb cravings, and support better energy fast. Take the Just Thrive Feel Better Challenge and save 20% at justthrivehealth.com/NAT20 with code NAT20. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Dr. Bill Lawrence Episode