NAD+, nutrition biomarker and genetic testing explained: what each one measures, who it suits and how the results become a plan.
Longevity medicine aims to keep you healthy and energetic for longer, not just to treat illness once it appears. Testing is where it starts, but not every test on offer is worth doing. This guide explains which tests give you information you can act on, what each one involves, and how to turn the results into a plan.
At the clinic: Dr. Fehmida offers NAD+, nutrition biomarker and genetic testing, each reviewed with you in a consultation. See our energy and longevity service.
Start with the basics
Before any specialist test, make sure the essentials are up to date with your own doctor: blood pressure, blood sugar (HbA1c), cholesterol, kidney and liver function, and age-appropriate screening. These have the strongest evidence for a long, healthy life, and specialist tests are designed to add to them, not replace them.
The three tests worth knowing about
Intracellular NAD+ test
NAD+ is a coenzyme your cells need to make energy and repair themselves, and levels tend to fall with age, stress and poor sleep. The NAD+ test measures the NAD+ inside your cells from a finger-prick taken at the clinic. The card is analysed by a CLIA-certified laboratory and results come back in 7 to 10 working days. It is most useful before starting NAD+ drips or supplements, so you know your starting point and can check the effect afterwards.
Nutrition biomarker test
A routine blood panel checks a handful of nutrients. The nutrition biomarker test measures 29 biomarkers across six panels from a single finger-prick, including vitamin D, active B12, ferritin, red-cell magnesium, zinc, selenium, the Omega-3 Index, amino acids and hormones. It suits people with tiredness, frequent colds, slow recovery, or hair and skin concerns that have no clear cause.
Genetic testing
Genetic testing uses a cheek swab to look at variations that affect how your body handles nutrients, weight, exercise and skin ageing, along with some health risks. Your genes do not change, so this is a one-time test, and its value lasts for life.
| NAD+ test | Nutrition biomarkers | Genetic test | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it measures | NAD+ inside your cells | 29 nutrients, minerals and hormones | Genetic variations |
| Sample | Finger-prick | Finger-prick | Cheek swab |
| Results | 7 to 10 working days | 7 to 10 working days | A few weeks |
| How often | Before and after a course | Once or twice a year | Once |
| Best for | Planning NAD+ treatment | Tiredness, immunity, hair and skin | A long-term personal plan |
Who should consider testing
- Adults over 35 who want a baseline for energy, focus and recovery.
- People who feel run down despite normal routine blood tests.
- Anyone considering IV drips or supplements, who would rather treat a measured shortfall than guess.
- People who train hard, travel often or work long hours and want to protect their health.
Tests to be cautious about
Be wary of any test that gives a single dramatic number, such as a “biological age”, with no explanation of what to do next. A result is only useful if it leads to a change you can make and measure. Tests sold without a medical review often leave people anxious or buying supplements they do not need.
From results to a plan
Every result at the clinic is reviewed with Dr. Fehmida. The plan usually starts with food, sleep and exercise, then adds targeted support where the results show a need. That may be a supplement, a NAD+ drip or another IV drip, or our NAD+ reset programme. Retesting after a few months shows whether the plan is working. Read more about who benefits from NAD+ drips.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before these tests?
No. The finger-prick tests need no fasting and no arm draw, and the genetic test is a simple cheek swab.
Are finger-prick tests accurate?
Yes, when the sample is collected properly and analysed by an accredited laboratory. The clinic’s tests use CLIA-certified labs.
Which test should I do first?
For tiredness or general health, the nutrition biomarker test is usually the best first step. If you are planning NAD+ treatment, start with the NAD+ test.
Can testing tell me how long I will live?
No test can. Good testing shows what your body needs now, so you can act on it while it makes the most difference.
Consultant Dermatologist and Laser Skin Specialist, MBBS, MCPS. Over 35 years in dermatology, five of them in Zurich, practising in Clifton, Karachi since 1999.
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