NMN, the full name of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide), is a naturally occurring bioactive nucleotide that belongs to the category of vitamin B derivatives.
NMN plays a pivotal role in cellular energy generation and is an important support for cells to maintain vitality.
In the human body, NMN is the most direct precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+, also known as coenzyme I, exists in every cell and participates in thousands of reactions.
It plays an irreplaceable role in cellular metabolic reactions. It not only participates in cellular respiration, promotes the oxidation of glucose, fat, amino acids and other substances, and provides energy for cells efficiently, but also acts as a substrate to regulate cell survival, apoptosis, DNA repair, immune response, circadian rhythm and other physiological functions.
With age, the level of NAD+ in the human body will gradually decrease, which is considered to be one of the key factors leading to ageing-related diseases and physical decline.
NMN can supplement this important coenzyme for the body by converting it into NAD+, thereby exerting a variety of potential health benefits.
The Magical Effects of NMN
Delaying aging
As we age, our body’s NAD+ levels gradually decrease, which is considered one of the key factors leading to aging. Supplementing with NMN can increase NAD+ levels in the body, thereby activating the Sirtuins family of longevity proteins.
Boost energy
NAD+ plays an integral role in key aspects of cellular energy metabolism. It participates in multiple steps of cellular respiration, helping to convert nutrients into ATP, a form of energy that cells can directly use.
When NAD+ levels are sufficient, cellular energy metabolism is more efficient. Supplementing with NMN can increase the amount of NAD+ in the body, thereby improving the energy production capacity of cells.
Improve metabolism
NMN has a positive regulatory effect on both sugar metabolism and lipid metabolism. In terms of sugar metabolism, it can improve insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to better absorb and utilize glucose, thereby helping to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
In terms of lipid metabolism, NMN can promote the decomposition and metabolism of fat and reduce the accumulation of fat in the body.
Enhanced cognition
The brain is an organ with extremely high energy metabolism requirements, and a decrease in NAD+ levels is closely related to neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.
Supplementing NMN can improve the energy metabolism of neurons and enhance the function and activity of neurons by increasing the level of NAD+ in the brain.
In addition, NMN may also protect nerve cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory damage, reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and have potential preventive and ameliorative effects on Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc.
Although NMN has shown encouraging research results in the above aspects, it should be noted that most of the research is still in the stage of animal experiments and early human clinical trials, and its long-term effects and safety still need more large-scale, long-term human studies to further verify.
NMN Has Broad Application Prospects
Healthcare industry
Disease treatment and prevention: In animal model studies of various diseases, NMN has shown therapeutic potential.
For example, it can play a certain preventive and therapeutic role in cardiovascular disease by improving mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting inflammatory responses; in diabetes treatment studies, NMN can improve insulin sensitivity and increase fat oxidation, which helps slow the progression of diabetes; for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, NMN can reduce neuronal damage and apoptosis by increasing NAD + levels and reducing oxidative stress.
Although some clinical trials are currently evaluating the efficacy and safety of NMN in these diseases, more large-scale, long-term human studies are needed for further verification.
Health supplements: As a nutritional supplement, NMN has the effects of delaying aging, increasing energy, and enhancing immunity. It can help middle-aged and elderly people maintain their physical functions and improve their quality of life.
It may also have a certain health care effect on people who are under high pressure and high load for a long time, helping them relieve fatigue and improve their energy.
Food and beverage industry
On January 17, 2025, the National Health Commission published the latest food additive acceptance announcement on its government service platform, and NMN was listed. Once approved, NMN will be widely used in various foods and health products as a food additive.
Cosmetics industry
From the cosmetic raw materials of NMN that have been filed and publicized, the main purpose of using the raw materials is skin protectant, moisturizer, antioxidant, and anti-wrinkle agent.
NMN can improve the level of NAD + in the body, improve cell energy metabolism, and enhance cell vitality, thereby playing the role of moisturizing, anti-oxidation, and anti-wrinkle in cosmetics, helping to delay skin aging and improve skin conditions.
With the continuous deepening of scientific research and the continuous advancement of technology, the application prospects of NMN will be broader. However, before its widespread application, some problems need to be solved, such as further clarifying its safety for long-term use, improving bioavailability, and optimizing production processes to reduce costs.
Things to Note When Using
Target Group
Generally speaking, middle-aged and elderly people may experience various ageing-related symptoms as their NAD+ levels decrease with age. Supplementing NMN can help increase NAD+ levels and improve physical functions to a certain extent.
In addition, people who are under high pressure and high load work for a long time, resulting in physical fatigue and lack of energy, as well as those who are at risk of some chronic diseases and hope to regulate their body metabolism by supplementing NMN, can also consider using it under the guidance of a doctor.
Not suitable for people
Pregnant and lactating women are in a special physiological state, and the effects of NMN on the fetus or infant are still unclear. To avoid potential risks, it should be prohibited to use.
Minors are still in the growth and development stage, and their own metabolic system is relatively vigorous. Generally, they do not need additional NMN supplements.
Using it may interfere with their normal physiological metabolic process, and it is not recommended. In addition, people with serious diseases, such as liver and kidney dysfunction, malignant tumors, etc., may increase the burden on the body or cause other adverse reactions when using NMN, and they need to use it with caution under the strict evaluation and guidance of a doctor.
Dosage and timing
At present, the optimal dosage of NMN has not been fully determined. Generally speaking, it is recommended to start with a low dose, such as 50-100 mg per day, to observe the body’s reaction.
If the body adapts well, the dose can be gradually increased under the guidance of a doctor according to personal circumstances, but it is usually not advisable to exceed 500 mg per day.
NMN products of different brands and dosage forms may have different contents and methods of use. Be sure to take them according to the product instructions or the doctor’s advice.
Time of use
The absorption and metabolism of NMN may be affected by diet. It is generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach or 1-2 hours after a meal to improve its bioavailability.
At the same time, in order to maintain the stability of NAD + levels in the body, it is best to take it at a fixed time every day. For example, you can choose to take it in the morning or at noon, and avoid taking it before going to bed at night to avoid affecting sleep quality.
Interactions with drugs
NMN may interact with certain drugs, affecting the efficacy of the drugs or increasing the risk of adverse reactions. In addition, NMN may also interact with some immunosuppressants, antibiotics and other drugs.
Therefore, before using NMN, be sure to inform your doctor of all the drugs you are taking so that the doctor can evaluate and guide you.
Quality and origin
The NMN market is currently in a state of chaos, with varying product quality. When choosing NMN products, you should purchase them through formal channels, select qualified manufacturers and well-known brands, and ensure the quality and safety of the products.
You can check whether the product has relevant quality inspection reports and certifications, such as GMP certification.
At the same time, pay attention to the product’s ingredient list and instructions to avoid purchasing products containing harmful impurities or false advertising.
You need to be cautious when using NMN. On the basis of fully understanding the relevant precautions, follow the doctor’s advice and use it reasonably to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Scientific View and Rational Choice
When it comes to NMN, an emerging health supplement, it is important to approach it with a scientific mindset. While acknowledging its promising potential in the health field, we must also be mindful of its risks and uncertainties.
Before using NMN, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, individuals with underlying conditions, or those taking other medications. Avoid using NMN without proper medical guidance.
When selecting an NMN product, carefully review key details such as ingredients, purity, production processes, and quality certifications. Opt for brands and products that have undergone third-party testing, have a strong reputation, and are widely recognised for their credibility.
It is also important to remember that NMN is a dietary supplement and should not replace a healthy lifestyle. Regardless of the potential benefits of NMN, it should not serve as an excuse to neglect daily health practices. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a positive mindset are essential for maintaining good health. Only by combining the thoughtful use of NMN with healthy lifestyle habits can we truly enhance our well-being and delay the aging process.
While NMN remains the subject of some debate and uncertainty, it has undeniably opened up new avenues for understanding health and aging. With ongoing scientific research and technological advancements, our knowledge of NMN will continue to grow, enabling us to use it more effectively for the benefit of human health in the future.
