Humans have been trying to stop the aging process for millennia. In the Middle Ages, alchemists searched for the philosopher's stone, and in Celtic mythology, there is the Fountain of Youth, which heals and rejuvenates people.
Far from fantasy, scientists have been researching molecules for decades that could actually help us live longer. One of these molecules is NMN, which is involved in cellular energy production and the formation of new cells.
In this blog post, we explain what NMN is, how it is produced, and which areas of the body it can affect.
What is NMN?
NMN is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy production. It is a derivative of vitamin B3, found in various foods such as milk, broccoli, or cucumbers. However, the body can also synthesize it itself.
Once NMN is in our body, the coenzyme is converted into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). This molecule is involved in almost all biological processes in our body. NAD+ is crucial, among other things, for energy production in cells, DNA repair, and the regulation of metabolic processes.
How is NMN produced?
NMN naturally occurs in our bodies, but as we age, our NAD levels decrease. A healthy lifestyle, the right daily rhythm, and taking NAD precursors can increase the levels.
Artificial NAD precursors are produced through a complex process. Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is used as the starting material and converted into NMN through phosphorylation. After NMN is produced, unwanted by-products that may have formed during the initial reaction are removed. Finally, the produced NMN is tested to ensure it is pure and has the correct chemical structure. Special analytical methods such as mass spectrometry or NMR spectroscopy are used for this verification.
Due to this complex process, NMN products can be quite expensive and are among the most counterfeited molecules in the world. A American study has shown that more than half of NMN suppliers do not offer genuine or only offer inferior NMN. To recognize genuine NMN, one should look for current analysis certificates on the website. Many prefer NMN with a fluffy and loose consistency, but it can be produced in various fineness grades at the highest quality. With trusted manufacturers, you can always request documents or analysis certificates.
What is the effect of NMN?
Scientific focus on NMN is growing rapidly. Recent studies show promising results, especially in supporting age-related processes. Here is an overview of the current state of research:
1. Support of cellular metabolism and slowing of the aging process:
NMN increases NAD+ levels in the body and thus supports energy production in the mitochondria – the "powerhouses" of the cells. This could help reduce age-related fatigue and promote cell health.
Scientists are researching, whether taking NMN can prevent the age-related decline of NAD levels. A drop in NAD levels is associated with the development of age-related diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Cardiovascular health:
Studies suggest that NMN can improve blood circulation and counteract age-related damage to blood vessels. According to a 2018 study in the Journal Cell The published study found that aging mice with restricted blood flow experienced a reactivation of their blood flow after taking NMN.
Researchers led by Dr. David Sinclair from Harvard Medical School found that endothelial cells in blood vessels decrease with age, impairing nutrient and oxygen supply as well as waste removal. This loss accelerates the aging process and promotes age-related complications.
The study showed that NAD+ precursors like NMN and nicotinamide riboside (NR), which act through the sirtuin pathway, can promote the ability of endothelial cells to form new blood vessels.
3. Possible improvement of insulin sensitivity:
Current studies suggest that NMN could also play a role in regulating sugar metabolism. This could be especially helpful for people with type 2 diabetes, as NMN stimulates the body's insulin production and lowers blood sugar levels.
A study published in January 2024 in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences showed that NMN mainly improves glucose uptake through effects in adipose tissue, including the reduction of resistin and the promotion of protein and fatty acid breakdown.
What experiences have people had with NAD boosters?
While NMN is currently not approved as a dietary supplement, many people already use NAD boosters. NAD boosters are dietary supplements aimed at increasing NAD+ levels. As mentioned, NAD+ plays a central role in cellular energy production and the formation of new cells. Currently approved NAD boosters include Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) or Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3.
But what does it feel like to use NAD boosters? Here’s what our customers say:
"I started slowly but after some time increased the dose to daily, and my overall well-being has really improved. I will continue taking it and can highly recommend it." - Hannah
"I feel much lighter, more focused, and energized since I started taking it, and I have been doing so for a while now. I can warmly recommend it to anyone who feels they lack energy and clarity." - Leonhard
"I never thought I would gain so much physical energy, mental clarity, and an overall sense of well-being. I had felt very tired for many years and didn’t believe I could ever feel like I did in my 20s again. I just want to say how happy I am to have found this product and that it has changed the way I feel every day. I can warmly recommend it, even to the most skeptical people looking for a small addition to their daily routine." - Carolina
What side effects are there?
In August 2023, a scientific review article published, dedicated to the investigation of NMN supplements and their impact on human physiology, especially in the context of age-related processes.
The analysis reviewed nine clinical studies and No clear side effects were detected in any of the studies with NMN intake.. The doses were mostly between 250 and 1,000 mg, which were proven to increase NAD concentration in the blood. The results suggest that NMN has potential as an anti-aging agent. However, further studies are necessary.
Conclusion
NMN has great potential to promote health in aging as a dietary supplement. It supports fundamental processes in cells and could help reduce typical age-related issues. However, individual decisions should be made in consultation with professionals, as the research is still in an early stage.
Note: According to German and European law, NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a chemical not suitable for human consumption.
