People have been trying to stop the aging process for thousands of years. In the Middle Ages, alchemists searched for the philosopher's stone and in Celtic mythology there is the fountain of youth that heals and rejuvenates people.
Far from fantasy, scientists have been researching molecules for decades that could actually make 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 works and what side effects are known.
What is NMN?
NMN is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy production. It is a derivative of vitamin B3, which is found in various foods such as milk, broccoli or cucumber. However, the body can also synthesize it itself.
As soon as 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 for energy production in cells, DNA repair and the regulation of metabolic processes, among other things.
How is NMN produced?
NMN is naturally found in our bodies, but as we age, our NAD levels decrease. A healthy lifestyle, proper circadian rhythm, and taking NAD precursors can increase levels.
Artificial NAD precursors are produced in a complex process. Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is used as the starting material and is converted into NMN by phosphorylation. After the NMN is produced, unwanted byproducts that may have been created during the initial reaction are removed. Finally, the produced NMN is tested to ensure that it is pure and has the correct chemical structure. Special analysis methods such as mass spectrometry or NMR spectroscopy are used for this check.
Due to this complex process, NMN products can be quite expensive and are among the most counterfeited molecules in the world. An American study has shown that more than half of NMN suppliers do not offer genuine NMN or only offer inferior quality NMN. To identify genuine NMN, you should look for current certificates of analysis on the website. Many people prefer NMN with a fluffy and loose consistency, but it can be produced in various degrees of fineness in the highest quality. You can always ask trustworthy manufacturers to receive documents or certificates of analysis.
What is the effect of NMN?
The 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. Supporting cell metabolism and slowing down the aging process:
NMN increases NAD+ levels in the body, supporting energy production in the mitochondria – the “powerhouses” of cells. This may help reduce age-related fatigue and promote cellular health.
Scientists are researching whether taking NMN can prevent the age-related decline in 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 disease.
2. Cardiovascular health:
Studies suggest that NMN may improve blood flow and counteract age-related damage to blood vessels. According to a 2018 study published in the journal Cell, aging mice with impaired blood flow experienced a reactivation of their blood flow after taking NMN.
Researchers led by Dr. David Sinclair of Harvard Medical School found that with age, the number of endothelial cells in blood vessels decreases, which impairs the supply of nutrients and oxygen as well as waste removal. This loss accelerates the aging process and promotes age-related complications.
The study showed that NAD+ precursors such as NMN and nicotinamide riboside (NR), which act via the sirtuin pathway, can promote the ability of endothelial cells to form new blood vessels.
3. Possible improvement in insulin sensitivity:
Recent studies suggest that NMN may also play a role in regulating sugar metabolism. This could be particularly 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 improves glucose uptake primarily through effects in adipose tissue , including lowering resistin and promoting protein and fatty acid breakdown.
What experiences have people had with NAD boosters?
While NMN is not yet approved as a dietary supplement, many people are already using NAD boosters. NAD boosters are dietary supplements that aim to increase the level of NAD+. As already 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 how does it feel to use NAD boosters? This is what our customers say:
“I started slowly but after a while increased the dose to daily and my general wellbeing has really improved. I will continue to take it and can highly recommend it.” - Hannah
“I feel much lighter, more focused and more energetic since I started taking it and I have been doing so for a while now. I highly recommend it to anyone who feels like they are lacking energy and clarity.” - Leonhard
“I never thought I would gain so much physical energy, mental clarity and a general feeling of well-being. I have felt very tired for many years and did not believe that I could 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 changes the way I feel every day. I highly recommend it to even the most skeptical people looking for a little addition to their daily routine.” - Carolina
What are the side effects?
In August 2023, a scientific review article was published dedicated to the study of NMN supplements and their influence on human physiology, especially in the context of age-related processes.
The analysis looked at nine clinical studies and none of the studies showed any clear side effects when taking NMN . The doses were mostly between 250 and 1,000 mg, which were proven to increase the NAD concentration in the blood. The results suggest that NMN has potential as an anti-aging agent. However, further studies are needed.
Conclusion
NMN has great potential as a dietary supplement to promote health in old age. It supports basic processes in the cells and could help to reduce typical age-related problems. However, individual decisions should be made in consultation with experts, as research is still at an early stage.
Note: According to German and European law, NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is a chemical that is not suitable for human consumption.
Reference articles:
https://moleqlar.com/blogs/supplements/nmn-nicotinamide-mononucleotide
https://eu.youhandearth.com/de-de/blogs/blog/what-is-nmn
https://eu.youhandearth.com/de-de/blogs/blog/ultimate-guide-nmn
https://donotage.org/blogs/nmn-benefits
https://neuroganhealth.com/blogs/news/nmn-benefits-and-how-it-works
