NMN and the Science Behind all the Hype

NMN supplement is gaining popularity as an anti-ageing and energy-boosting supplement. But what exactly is NMN, and how does it work? Here we will explore the basics of NMN supplement, the science behind it, its potential health benefits and how to use it effectively.

Let's start with the basics. NMN stands for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, a naturally occurring compound found in our bodies. It is a precursor to NAD+, which plays a vital role in energy metabolism and cellular function.

But what exactly does that mean? Well, NAD+ is a coenzyme that is crucial for various biological processes. One of its primary functions is DNA repair. Every day, our DNA is subjected to damage from various sources such as UV radiation, chemicals, and oxidative stress. Without proper repair mechanisms, these damages can accumulate and lead to mutations, which in turn can contribute to ageing and the development of diseases.

Aside from DNA repair, NAD+ also plays a critical role in cellular energy production. Our cells rely on a process called cellular respiration to generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). NAD+ is a key player in this process, acting as an electron carrier in the electron transport chain, which ultimately leads to the production of ATP. Without sufficient NAD+, cellular energy production can be compromised, leading to fatigue and decreased overall energy levels.

Let’s Take a Closer Look

NMN is not just a bystander in the production of NAD+. It actively participates in the synthesis of this essential coenzyme. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which can impact overall health and energy levels. This decline is believed to be one of the contributing factors to the ageing process itself. By supplementing with NMN, we can potentially boost NAD+ levels and counteract the effects of ageing.

Research has shown that NMN supplementation can have numerous benefits. In addition to its role in DNA repair and cellular energy production, NMN has been found to improve insulin sensitivity, enhance mitochondrial function, and promote healthy ageing. It has also shown promise in protecting against age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. Furthermore, NMN has been studied for its potential anti-ageing effects. Research suggests that NMN can activate certain proteins called sirtuins, which are known to play a role in longevity. By activating these sirtuins, NMN can help promote cellular health and extend lifespan.

It is important to note that while NMN shows great promise, further research is still needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and long-term effects. Additionally, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Once ingested, NMN is absorbed in the small intestine and enters the bloodstream. From there, it is transported to various tissues, including the liver, skeletal muscles, and brain. Within these tissues, NMN undergoes a remarkable transformation. It is enzymatically converted into NR, a process that is crucial for its subsequent utilization in NAD+ synthesis. This conversion from NMN to NR is facilitated by the enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT).

Once converted into NR, this precursor molecule is efficiently taken up by cells through specific transporters. Inside the cells, NR is converted back into NMN through the action of another enzyme called nicotinamide riboside kinase (NRK). Now, with NMN back in action, it can be utilized as a substrate for the final step in NAD+ synthesis. Through a series of enzymatic reactions involving NMN adenylyltransferase (NMNAT), NMN is converted into NAD+, the coenzyme that is essential for numerous cellular processes. This intricate biological pathway ensures that NMN is effectively utilized to produce NAD+, allowing for the potential benefits associated with NMN supplementation.

In conclusion, NMN supplement, short for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, is a compound that acts as a precursor to NAD+. NAD+ is essential for DNA repair and cellular energy production. By supplementing with NMN, we may be able to boost NAD+ levels and potentially improve overall health and energy levels.

Want to find out more?, click of these links to view the scientific & research studies.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36482258/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8265078/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31685720/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26970090/

Natural Sources of NMN

Natural NMN is present in various food sources such as fruits, vegetables, and raw beef. Including the Broccoli, Cabbage, Edamame, Cucumber, Avocado and Tomatoes.

Although NMN naturally occurs in many food sources, a study found that you would need to consume 100 kg of broccoli, 69 kg of avocado, or 416 kg of beef just to obtain 250 mg of NMN daily. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5668137/

NMN and Anti-Ageing

One of the most promising aspects of NMN is its potential anti-aging properties. By replenishing NAD+ levels, NMN may help support cellular repair mechanisms, reduce age-related decline, and promote overall well-being.

As we age, our bodies experience a decline in various physiological functions. This includes a decrease in the production of NAD+, a molecule that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and cellular repair. NMN, short for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, is a precursor to NAD+ and has gained attention for its ability to boost NAD+ levels.

By increasing NAD+ levels, NMN supplementation may enhance the activity of sirtuins (Sirt1), a group of proteins involved in regulating cellular processes. Sirtuins (Sirt1) play a key role in maintaining DNA integrity, promoting DNA repair, and regulating gene expression. Additionally, sirtuins (Sirt1) have been linked to longevity and have been shown to extend lifespan in various organisms.

Furthermore, NMN has been found to activate a protein called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is known as a "metabolic master switch" that helps regulate energy metabolism and maintain cellular homeostasis. By activating AMPK, NMN may help improve mitochondrial function, increase cellular energy production, and enhance overall vitality.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7238909/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37569166/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35499054/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35441939/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36522127/

NMN and Metabolism

Energy decline is a common complaint as we age. NMN may help boost energy levels by stimulating mitochondrial function and promoting efficient energy production, ultimately combating fatigue and increasing vitality.

Mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of our cells, as they are responsible for generating ATP, the primary source of cellular energy. However, with age, mitochondrial function tends to decline, leading to reduced energy production and increased fatigue.

NMN supplementation has been shown to activate a family of proteins called sirtuins, which can help improve mitochondrial function. By enhancing mitochondrial activity, NMN may increase the production of ATP, leading to enhanced energy levels and improved overall well-being.

In addition to its role in mitochondrial function, NMN has also been found to activate a pathway called the Nrf2 pathway. This pathway plays a crucial role in cellular defense mechanisms and helps protect against oxidative stress. By activating the Nrf2 pathway, NMN may help reduce cellular damage caused by free radicals and promote overall cellular health.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34238308/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36797393/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35927255/

NMN and Heart Health

Studies suggest that NMN may play a beneficial role in cardiovascular health. By supporting the function of blood vessels, promoting healthy blood flow, and reducing oxidative stress, NMN may help maintain a healthy heart and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, are leading causes of death worldwide. These conditions often arise from a combination of factors, including impaired blood vessel function, reduced blood flow, and increased oxidative stress.

NMN has been found to promote the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a crucial role in maintaining blood vessel health. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of blood clots. By increasing nitric oxide production, NMN may help support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease and other related conditions.

In addition to its effects on blood vessels, NMN has also been shown to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them. Excessive oxidative stress can lead to cellular damage and contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. NMN's ability to reduce oxidative stress may help protect the heart and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26970090/

NMN and Neurodegeneration

Neurodegeneration is a major problem facing the world today. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive loss of structure and function of neurons, resulting in cognitive impairment. The most common neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.

These diseases are devastating, not only for the individuals affected, but also for their families and caregivers. Neurodegenerative diseases are currently incurable, and there is no effective way to prevent their progression.

However, research is ongoing, and scientists are hopeful that new treatments will be developed to improve the quality of life for those affected by neurodegenerative diseases.

NAD+ is crucial to brain function, the brain uses a tremendous amount of energy and low levels of NAD+ affect the brain’s ability to function optimally.  Studies are finding that NMN can benefit brain function and help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s by increasing the levels of NAD+ in the brain. Doing so was shown to decrease the build-up of plaques associated with Alzheimer’s, protect brain cells from dying, protect nerve cells from degenerating, and to improve memory. 

By supplementing with NMN, brain fog and fatigue could become a thing of the past. Assisting with alertness and the ability to recall more easily as your brain cells receive enough energy to function optimally. 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35956406/

NMN and Sleep Quality

Deteriorating sleep quality and physical or mental fatigue in older adults leads to decreased quality of life and increased mortality rates. Many people in today’s society have sleep problems. Poor sleep quality not only affects work and study performance but also greatly reduces the quality of life. According to research analysis, human sleep time is related to the NAD+ level in the body. As we age, NAD+ levels decrease in the body, which may be the cause of insomnia or less time spent in deep sleep.

The circadian rhythm is the internal clock that helps the body regulate its natural energy flow, and when the circadian rhythm doesn’t work properly, it can disrupt sleep patterns. Disruption of circadian rhythms can have negative health effects, including accelerating the aging process and increasing susceptibility to disease.

NAD+ plays a vital role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. A healthy circadian rhythm is closely associated with sirtuins, a group of proteins that support cellular health and play a key role in regulating cellular homeostasis. However, sirtuins can only work properly when sufficient amounts of NAD+ are present in the cell.

NAD+ also helps maintain the proper activity of genes that regulate circadian rhythms and repairs the DNA that directs circadian rhythm function. This is why sleep becomes irregular when there is a lack of NAD+. Supplementing with NAD+ helps normalize this cycle and provides better, more restful sleep.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35215405/

How long does NMN take to work?

If you take NMN according to directions, it will enter your bloodstream directly and should start to take immediate effect. Researchers found that oral administration of NMN in water converted into NAD+ within 15 minutes and levels continued to rise over an hour.

However, it’s important to note that will all supplements, to feel a benefit, they must be taken over a prolonged period of time. We would typically recommend supplementation for 3 months to allow your NAD+ to reach desirable levels.

How will I know if NMN is working?

The first sign should be that you are feeling more energetic, longer endurance, and a feeling of alertness. Other signs might be weight loss, elevated blood glucose levels dropping, and increased overall performance physically and mentally. It’s important to keep in mind that everyone is different and you might not experience the same effects as others and in the same amount of time. Rest assured our NMN is of the highest quality with a high level of bioavailability and, with ongoing use, you’re sure to feel the difference.

Best Time to Take NMN

Timing can be crucial when taking NMN supplements. Many experts suggest taking NMN in the morning on an empty stomach, as it may help optimize absorption and utilization by the body. However, individual preferences and schedules may vary, so finding a routine that fits your lifestyle is key.

NMN Dosage

The answer to this question is not definitive for everyone. However, there are set dosages for the NMN supplements that can be adjusted for every individual according to their age, and BMI (Body Mass Index).

According to the latest clinical trials with NMN supplements, the optimal and safe dose of NMN for 40-65 years old is 500 mg/day to 1000 mg/day. Most of the NMN trials with humans were conducted with these amounts and showed no side effects. Staying in the range of these doses of NMN supplementation may be safe for everyday usage to enhance healthy ageing.

Based on studies, people of a certain age and weight may need to use different doses of NMN accordingly.

  • For a person aged under 50 with a standard body weight of 62kg ~500mg.

  • For a person aged over 50 with a standard body weight of 62kg ~750mg.

  • For a person aged under 50 with a standard body weight of 90kg ~750mg.

  • For a person aged over 50 with a standard body weight of 90kg ~1000mg.

We recommend starting at 500mg per day in the morning on an empty stomach for the first 4 weeks, and then adjust if needed.

Are there side effects of NMN supplementation? 

No adverse events were reported in the clinical trials and no study of increasing NAD+ levels in humans has reported serious side effects of any kind. That said, like any intervention, it will be necessary to track the long-term effects of upregulating NAD+ to better understand the benefits and continue to ensure that there are no side effects.

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