Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a compound found in every cell in your body. NAD+ acts as a coenzyme, which is a compound necessary for the functioning of proteins called enzymes.
NAD+ is involved in important processes such as energy metabolism, gene expression, and the regulation of mitochondrial functioning.
NAD+ levels naturally decline with age due to decreased production and increased use of this important compound. This depletion may negatively impact health status during aging and may increase the risk of age-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
Some evidence suggests supplementing with NAD+ precursors, including NMN, may increase NAD+ synthesis, which may have positive effects on overall health and aging.
Benefits of NMN
Some research has shown supplementing with NMN, a precursor to NAD+, may help increase NAD+ levels in the body and therefore benefit overall health. However, human studies on the topic are limited.
May Boost NAD+ Levels
Limited research suggests supplementing with NMN could help increase NAD+ levels in certain populations.
A recent study including 30 healthy adults found supplementation with 250 milligrams (mg) of NMN per day for 12 weeks significantly increased blood levels of NAD+ compared to placebo treatment.
Another recent study investigated the effects of daily NMN supplementation in 80 healthy middle-aged adults in doses of 300 mg, 600 mg, or 900 mg for 60 days. Researchers found participants had significantly increased blood NAD+ concentrations, with the highest concentration of NAD+ found in the groups taking 600 mg and 900 mg of NMN per day.
NMN has also been shown to increase NAD+ levels in older, overweight adults.
Although more research is needed, these findings suggest NMN supplements could be an effective way to increase NAD+ levels in healthy people.
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