Benefits of Using NMN Supplements For Anti Aging - 10 Facts

NMN Benefits for Healthy Aging

What have you tried so far to maintain a healthy body and a youthful appearance as you age? Hydration? Exercise? Diet and expensive skincare? 

While all of these have their benefits, there’s one key thing you’re missing: a natural component that can help mitigate signs of aging from where it begins — inside the cell. 

NMN, short for nicotinamide mononucleotide, is produced by the body and may help slow down the aging process through the production of NAD+.   

Let’s have a look at the benefits of NMN and how it contributes to healthy aging. 

Key Takeaways

• NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is a natural component produced by the human body. It’s also found in healthy foods like avocados, broccoli, and beef. 
• It’s a precursor to NAD+, which your cells use to produce energy. NAD+ declines as you age, affecting metabolism and DNA repair.
• Supplementing with oral NMN increases the levels of NAD+ significantly. 
• Studies suggest that taking NMN can boost your energy and endurance. In one trial, middle-aged runners who took NMN had better stamina and aerobic capacity. 
• NMN isn't just about physical energy; it might be a cognitive enhancer, too. Research has shown it could improve memory and focus by protecting nerve cells. 
• NMN has shown to improve skin complexion, reduce signs of aging, and even deal with issues like hyperpigmentation. It activates proteins called sirtuins, which protect against skin damage.
• NMN helps regulate metabolism, which could assist in weight loss. It also seems to kick your immune system into higher gear by increasing the production of white blood cells.
• One study found that taking NMN improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue in older adults. 
• While NMN sounds like a miracle compound, the recommended daily dose is about 500mg. The good news is that it's generally considered safe. A study found that a daily dose of 1250mg was well-tolerated over a 4-week period.

What is Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN)? 

NMN is a natural component, also known as a nucleotide, that’s produced by the human body, and in plants and animals. 

It’s found in tiny concentrations in a variety of foods, including avocado (up to 1.60mg in 100g), broccoli (0.25–1.12mg per 100g), cucumbers (0.6mg), edamame (up to 1.5mg per 100g), beef, and even breast milk.

This compound is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is a coenzyme with a critical role in energy production and metabolism. It’s also involved in cellular processes, such as DNA repair. 

Without it, the body cannot produce ATP, the body’s main energy source. When the cell doesn’t produce ATP, cellular death occurs.  

As we age, the natural production of NAD+ in the cell declines dramatically. Studies show numerous benefits of increasing the NAD+ levels in the body, including improved insulin sensitivity and extended lifespan [1, 2].

 

There are several ways to increase the levels of NAD+, including stimulating its production through enzymes and supplementing it with precursors like NMN. 

While you can get NMN from natural food sources, they contain low quantities. For example, you’ll need 40,000 edamame beans or 8,000 broccoli to obtain 500mg of NMN. 

Therefore, taking a high-quality supplement is the only way to obtain the recommended daily dose of 500 mg.   

Top NMN Pick 

Mytogenix Flawless RX, Pina Colada flavor, harnesses the power of patented botanicals: 

• Astrion® for collagen boost 
• Verbasnol™ to combat environmental stressors and 
• Dermaval® for natural collagen production. 

Infused with NMN, it targets cellular health, inflammation, and hydration, promising a radiant, youthful complexion and overall vitality.

Need some proof? Here’s how NMN affects your aging body and skin: 

• Slows Down Aging in the Cell 

Biologically, the decline in NAD+ levels means your body is aging.  

By the time you’re in your 50s, the levels of NAD+ have declined by 50% compared to young age. This is due to the low production of NAD+ and its rapid breakdown [3]. 

 

NAD+ is an essential molecule, known as a coenzyme, that consists of nicotinamide and adenine nucleotides connected by phosphate linkages. This molecule is crucial to facilitating numerous metabolic processes, including energy production and DNA repair. 

 As the levels of NAD+ decline, the energy production in the body reduces, and the DNA damage increases (shown through shorter telomeres). This is important because NAD+ production is associated with telomere length. When NAD+ is available in the cell, it activates the sirtuins which stabilizes telomeres and the telomere length. 

Studies show that longer telomeres may be associated with decreased risk of age-related diseases and increased lifespan [4].   

 When sirtuins are activated, the aging process is slowed down. Sirtuins are involved in DNA repair, cell division, and death. They are a group of enzymes that have a major role in aging and the creation of age-related diseases [5]. 

Such a decrease contributes to aging at the cellular level and the development of age-related diseases. 

Supplementing with NMN increases the levels of NAD+ in the body, which supports the activity of sirtuins. As a result, the aging of the cell and the development of age-related diseases are prevented or slowed down. 

According to studies, NMN can reduce insulin resistance, improve immune function, help manage aging-associated weight gain, and enhance physical performance [6, 7]. 

• Reverses Skin Aging 

Yes, you read that right.  

NMN can help maintain your skin’s youthfulness by reversing some of the damage aging has done. It also may improve complexion and reduce signs of aging by decreasing inflammation and stimulating collagen production. 

 

According to studies, this component activates a protective mechanism through NAD+ production that activates the sirtuins. The activation of sirtuins, particularly SIRT3, protects against issues related to skin aging, including wrinkles, skin healing, UV exposure, and skin cancers [3]. 

 One animal study (2021) showed that NMN improved skin changes in mice caused by sun damage and aging [8]. 

 Another study (2022) showed that NMN may be useful for people dealing with hyperpigmentation (dark spots) as they age. NMN has no effect on young melanocytes but reduces melanin production in aged melanocytes [9]. 

 Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin, a pigment that causes dark spots and age-related pigmentation (hyperpigmentation) in some people [9]. 

• Boosts Energy Levels 

If you want to increase your energy levels and endurance during exercise, give NMN a go.  

One human control trial (2021) tested the stamina of 48 middle-aged, amateur runners who took NMN compared to a control group. The runners were in training for six weeks. The researchers noticed better endurance and significantly increased aerobic capacity than the control group [10]. 

 Another study in elderly mice showed that oral NMN increased endurance and stamina by 80%. 

 The reason behind these results is thought to be elevated production of nucleotides in the mitochondria. As a result, this increases the production of energy and improves stamina. 

 There’s also some evidence that NMN protects cells from damage during training as the muscles are getting a boost in oxygen supply. 

 To achieve these results, some people need 250mg of NMN, while others require 500mg. If you’re feeling low on energy, our NMN supplements are worth considering. 

• NMN is a Cognitive Enhancer

The decline in nerve cells as we age leads to a decline in cognitive function. 

NMN is thought to improve memory, focus, and other cognitive functions by protecting and repairing nerve cells. A review study (2022) concluded that NMN could help different forms of dementia, including age-related decline [11]. 

 Animal studies also show that NMN benefits the functioning of the brain by improving blood flow and cognition in mice [12].

 This component shows promise in the area of cognitive health, so it’s already been used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons by practitioners. But, we need more human studies to determine its efficacy.

• NMN Boosts Immunity

Another perk of supplementing your body with NMN is that it may boost immunity. 

One study has found that NMN increased the production of white blood cells by stimulating the production of the interleukin-6 protein. This protein is involved in the immune response and production of white blood cells that are essential for fighting off infections [13].  

If you are looking for ways to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation, consider our NMN supplements. They are a safe and natural way to boost the immune system.  

• NMN and Weight Loss

NMN can assist with weight loss by activating the sirtuin genes. 

Sirtuins regulate metabolism, so their activation through NAD+ can help boost metabolism and burn more fat.

One animal study found that mice that consumed NMN lost weight and achieved lower levels of body fat compared to those that didn’t. They also noticed an increase in energy levels and stamina [14].

Research shows that although NMN’s primary role is to assist against aging, combining it with calorie restriction may help improve insulin sensitivity and metabolism. As a result, the body starts to lose weight.

• Improves Sleep 

Sleep deprivation is a health crisis in the United States, where millions of adults are struggling to get a good night’s sleep. And we all know, nothing wears down the body as fast as a lack of sleep. 

In one human study (2022), 108 older Japanese adults struggling with mental fatigue and poor sleep were divided into 4 groups. Two of the groups took NMN, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon, which was matched with two placebo groups [15].   

Best improvements for sleep and fatigue noticed the afternoon NMN group, while both NMN groups saw a significant improvement in grip strength.

• Rejuvenates Aged Blood Vessels

According to studies, NMN improves vascular elasticity in old mice. 

Studies showed that old mice that received NMN had better dilation of blood vessels than young control mice and young mice that received NMN. The dilation of the blood vessels in old mice that didn’t receive NMN was severely impaired [16]. 

Furthermore, the old mice that received NMN had mitochondria that looked like the mitochondria in young mice. In comparison, the mitochondria in old mice that didn’t receive NMN looked shrunken and dysfunctional [12].

• Improves Fertility 

More research is needed to prove the effects of NMN on fertility. 

However, studies show that NMN can improve fertility and even activate fertility in old animals [17]. 

In females, fertility declines with age as the eggs (oocytes) lose quality. Supplementing with NAD+ precursors, like NMN, “rejuvenates oocyte quality in aged animals, leading to restoration in fertility,” studies show. This is achieved through increased ovulation and the ability to achieve fertilization [17].

• Repairs DNA Damage

DNA damage is one of the main reasons we get older. 

Studies show that NMN helps cells repair damaged DNA. Old mice that received NMN had significantly less DNA damage compared to old mice that didn’t [18]. 

Irradiated mice with significant DNA damage had higher levels of red blood cells following a single oral dose of NMN compared to mice that didn’t receive NMN. 

Safety of NMN as a Supplement

NMN is generally a safe and effective compound that comes with few side effects. 

Its main role is to boost NAD+ levels, so its effectiveness can be improved by taking supplements that can increase or decelerate the breakdown of NAD+. 

A human study (2022) on healthy Japanese adults showed that a daily dose of 1250mg NMN was well-tolerated over a 4-week period. The researchers found no adverse effects from taking this supplement, but this was a small study with a positive outcome that confirmed the safety of the compound [19].

How to Take NMN Supplements?

Studies show that oral NMN is quickly absorbed by the body. 

But, there are compounds that support its production. One of them is resveratrol, which also occurs naturally in plants and can assist in activating sirtuins and increasing the levels of NAD+. 

Resveratrol activates the enzyme NMNAT1 and can increase the levels of NAD+ in brain cells up to 5 times [20]. 

It’s a polyphenol found in grapes and other foods known for its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant effects [21].

Unlike NMN, resveratrol has shown adverse effects, which seem to depend on the dose taken, including: 

•  Potential estrogen-like activity
• Liver abnormalities
• GI upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) 

Another concern is that this compound may decrease the ability of platelets to combine. Platelets have a role in blood clotting, so this compound may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if combined with drugs that affect similar pathways (anticoagulants).

 

Therefore, make sure you consult a physician before starting a new supplement. 

Final Thoughts

NMN shows promise in rejuvenating energy levels, sharpening minds, and even putting the brakes on aging. While a lot of brain-boosting science is still in the "mice stage," the early, short human studies on its safety are encouraging.

 

Doses up to 1250mg haven't raised any red flags in human studies. This component is present in food, but you can't get enough NMN from food alone unless you're eating a mountain of avocados and broccoli every day. So, the best way to raise the NAD+ levels is by supplementing with NMN. 

 

Pair NMN with other NAD+ boosters like resveratrol to really unlock its potential. If you’re curious about giving your health a proactive boost, NMN is worth checking out.

FAQs on NMN Benefits for Aging 

 

Q: Will NMN make me look younger? 

A: NMN is not a miracle treatment, but when combined with diet and lifestyle changes, it does have an impact on aging in the cell. 

 

There’s currently no solid evidence that this supplement will directly improve your appearance. However, some research suggests that NMN supplements can lead to improvements in wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and skin elasticity. With that said, the potential of NMN for skin health remains largely unexplored. 

 

Q: Does NMN prevent aging? 

A: The anti-aging potential of NMN has been shown in animal studies where older mice given this supplement had a prolonged lifespan and repair of aging cells. But, the degree to which NMN slows the aging process in humans is unclear.  

 

Q: How much NMN for anti-aging? 

A: If you’re 35 and older, we recommend 500mg of NMN a day for the first two weeks. After two weeks, increase to 1g daily. If you are younger than 35, you can start with 250mg per day and see excellent results. 

 

Q: Is NMN good for wrinkles? 

A: Recent studies have shown that NMN can protect the skin from damage caused by UV exposure. This compound activates the sirtuins or proteins that protect against wrinkles, skin damage from UV, wound healing, etc. [3].

 

Q: Can I take NMN in my 30s? 

A: You can definitely start taking NMN in your 30s. The optimal dose for adults aged 30 and older is 500 mg of NMN per day. 

 

Q: Does NMN reverse gray hair?  

A: NMN has not been studied for its effects on reversing gray hair, but there’s some anecdotal evidence that it can reverse signs of aging like gray hair. 

 

According to an interview with NMN expert Dr. Elena Seranova, gray hair appears in people when melanocyte production starts to drop as a result of aging. The production of melanocyte stem cells is connected to the production of NAD+ and the health of the mitochondria and telomere length. 

 

So, by boosting NAD+ levels through NMN supplementation, we can boost the health of the mitochondria and increase telomere length, which helps stem cells replicate and potentially reverse gray hair. 

References

1. Yoshino, M., Yoshino, J., Kayser, B. D., Patti, G. J., Franczyk, M. P., Mills, K. F., Sindelar, M., Pietka, T., Patterson, B. W., Imai, S., & Klein, S. (2021b). Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women. Science, 372(6547), 1224–1229.
2. Covarrubias, A. J., Perrone, R., Grozio, A., & Verdin, E. (2020). NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 22(2), 119–141.
3. Su, S., Ndiaye, M. A., Singh, C. K., & Ahmad, N. (2020). Mitochondrial sirtuins in skin and skin cancers. Photochemistry and Photobiology, 96(5), 973–980.
4. Omran, H. M., & Almaliki, M. S. (2020). Influence of NAD+ as an ageing-related immunomodulator on COVID 19 infection: A hypothesis. Journal of Infection and Public Health, 13(9), 1196–1201. 
5. Xie, N., Zhang, L., Gao, W., Huang, C., Huber, P. E., Zhou, X., Li, C., Shen, G., & Zou, B. (2020). NAD+ metabolism: pathophysiologic mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, 5(1).
6. Mills, K. F., Yoshida, S., Stein, L. R., et al (2016b). Long-Term administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide mitigates Age-Associated physiological decline in mice. Cell Metabolism, 24(6), 795–806. 
7. Uddin, G. M., Youngson, N. A., Sinclair, D., & Morris, M. J. (2016). Head to Head Comparison of Short-Term Treatment with the NAD+ Precursor Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and 6 Weeks of Exercise in Obese Female Mice. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7.
8. Zhou, X., Du, H., Long, X., Pan, Y., Hu, J., Yu, J., & Zhao, X. (2021). Β-Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) administrated by intraperitoneal injection mediates protection against UVB-Induced skin damage in mice. Journal of Inflammation Research, Volume 14, 5165–5182. 
9. Brito, S., Baek, J., Cha, B., Heo, H., Lee, S., Lei, L., Jung, S. Y., Lee, S. M., Lee, S. H., Kwak, B., Chae, S., Lee, M., & Bin, B. (2022). Nicotinamide mononucleotide reduces melanin production in aged melanocytes by inhibiting cAMP/Wnt signaling. Journal of Dermatological Science, 106(3), 159–169. 
10. Liao, B., Zhao, Y., Wang, D., Zhang, X., Xia, H., & Hu, M. (2021). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 18(1).
11. Campbell, J. M. (2022). Supplementation with NAD+ and Its Precursors to Prevent Cognitive Decline across Disease Contexts. Nutrients, 14(15), 3231.
12. Tarantini, S., Valcarcel-Ares, M. N., Toth, P., Yabluchanskiy, A., et al. (2019). Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) supplementation rescues cerebromicrovascular endothelial function and neurovascular coupling responses and improves cognitive function in aged mice. Redox Biology, 24, 101192. 
13. Liu, J., Zong, Z., Zhang, W., Chen, Y., Wang, X., Shen, J., Yang, C., Liu, X., & Deng, H. (2021). Nicotinamide mononucleotide alleviates LPS-Induced inflammation and oxidative stress via decreasing COX-2 expression in macrophages. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 8. 
14. Franczyk, M. P., Qi, N., Stromsdorfer, K. L., Li, C., Yamaguchi, S., Itoh, H., Yoshino, M., Sasaki, Y., Brookheart, R. T., Finck, B. N., DeBosch, B. J., Klein, S., & Yoshino, J. (2021). Importance of adipose tissue NAD+ biology in regulating metabolic flexibility. Endocrinology, 162(3). 
15. Kim, M., Seol, J., Sato, T., Fukamizu, Y., Sakurai, T., & Okura, T. (2022). Effect of 12-Week intake of nicotinamide mononucleotide on sleep quality, fatigue, and physical performance in older Japanese adults: a randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled study. Nutrients, 14(4), 755.
16. De Picciotto, N. E., Gano, L. B., Johnson, L. C., Martens, C. R., Sindler, A. L., Mills, K. F., Imai, S., & Seals, D. R. (2016b). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress with aging in mice. Aging Cell, 15(3), 522–530. 
17. Bertoldo, M. J., Listijono, D. R., Ho, W. J., Riepsamen, A. H., et al. (2020). NAD+ Repletion Rescues Female Fertility during Reproductive Aging. Cell Reports, 30(6), 1670-1681.e7. 
18. Li, J., Bonkowski, M. S., Moniot, S., Zhang, D., Hubbard, B. P., et al. (2017). A conserved NAD + binding pocket that regulates protein-protein interactions during aging. Science, 355(6331), 1312–1317. 
19. Fukamizu, Y., Uchida, Y., Shigekawa, A., Sato, T., Kosaka, H., & Sakurai, T. (2022). Safety evaluation of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide oral administration in healthy adult men and women. Scientific Reports, 12(1). 
20. Grant, R. (2010). Resveratrol Increases Intracellular NAD+ Levels Through Up regulation of The NAD+ Synthetic Enzyme Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Adenylyltransferase. Nature Precedings. 
21. Salehi, B., Mishra, A. P., Nigam, M., Sener, B., Kilic, M., Sharifi-Rad, M., Fokou, P. V. T., Martins, N., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2018). Resveratrol: a Double-Edged Sword in health Benefits. Biomedicines, 6(3), 91.