NMN vs NAD+ For Anti-Aging: What's the Difference?

Does this whole NMN and NAD+ thing confuse you? You’re not alone. 

These two compounds are so closely related and essential to each other’s existence that it’s easy to get them mixed up. 

If you want to introduce an NMN supplement into your routine but don’t know if it has better absorption and efficacy than NAD+ supplements, this article is for you. In it, we explain the main difference between NMN and NAD+ and the role of each in the cell.

Key Takeaways: 

• NMN is an immediate precursor to NAD+, an essential molecule your cells need to function. 
• The levels of NAD+ in the cell decline as you age. According to studies, taking NMN supplements safely and effectively increases NAD+ levels in the blood. 
• Elevating the levels of NAD+ in the body is linked to a slowed decline in aging and healthier aging. 
• NAD+ and NMN are structurally different, which affects the way they enter cells and offer the necessary supply. 
• Supplementing with NMN can help mitigate the decline in NAD+ levels and promote a steadier decline in biological functions. 

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Dermaval® bolsters your body's natural collagen production, paving the way for a revitalized and youthful glow. 

True anti-aging is linked to changes at a cellular level and directly supported by compounds like NMN. 

NMN, a Vitamin B3 derivative known for increasing the NAD+ levels in the body, is known to enhance longevity, support cellular health, and improve brain and heart functions. It's pivotal in reversing vascular aging and boosting stamina, supporting vitality and helping you maintain a youthful essence. 

Together, these constituents craft a powerhouse formula that supports cellular health and assists in healthy aging seen through your skin, energy, and memory. 

 

What is NMN? 

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a natural molecule (nucleotide) best known as the precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). In the cell, NMN converts into NAD+, which serves as the building blocks of DNA and RNA. 

NMN’s benefits are mostly reflected through NAD+, which has a major role in healthy aging and longevity. These two molecules work together to support energy metabolism in the cells that power your entire body. 

A good concentration of NAD+ molecules in the body may reduce tiredness, improve memory, and help vital organs function in peak condition.

But, your NMN levels naturally decline as you age. As a result, your body doesn’t have enough NMN to produce NAD+ and support these vital functions. So, the amount of NAD+ your body can produce is correlated to the amount of NMN available. 

Unfortunately, research shows that lower levels of NMN and, as a result, NAD+ are related to the development of chronic conditions like diabetes and liver disease [1]. 

Luckily, studies show that supplementing with NMN helps the body maintain NAD+ levels by stimulating the production of new NAD+ molecules [2]. 

NMN Recap:

• NMN is a precursor to NAD+ and facilitates its production in the body. 
• Through NAD+, NMN is involved in DNA repair, energy production, and metabolic processes. 
• Supplementing with NMN increases the levels of NAD+ in the body. 

What is NAD+?

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is an essential coenzyme that turns nutrients into cellular energy. NAD+ is the part of the NAD coenzyme (the other part is NADH) that performs important functions in the cell. It’s involved in cellular energy production and maintaining mitochondrial health. 

NAD+ is present in every living cell in your body and helps turn nutrients into energy, which keeps your body alive. It affects the circadian rhythm (sleeping and waking cycles) and the health of vital organs. 

This molecule transfers electrons involved in breaking down carbs, fats, and proteins to the electron transport chain (redox reaction). Through this process, NAD supports the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary energy currency of cells.

It also activates the sirtuins, or “longevity genes.” One of the reasons people want to supplement with NAD+ is to continue a healthy production of sirtuins in the cell. 

As we age, the activity of sirtuins declines, which is believed to be the main reason for the development of chronic conditions and diseases. Older people and people with chronic illnesses have lower levels of NAD+ than younger adults or older healthy adults [3, 1].  

NAD+ Recap:

• NAD+ is a vital coenzyme present in every living cell, essential for turning nutrients into cellular energy and maintaining mitochondrial health.
• It plays a significant role in electron transfer processes facilitating ATP production, and activates sirtuins, known as "longevity genes."
• As people age, NAD+ levels and sirtuin activity decrease, which is associated with the development of chronic conditions and diseases.
• The levels of NAD+ in the body can be increased through NMN supplementation and a healthy lifestyle.  

The Connection Between NMN and NAD+

It’s simple: NMN is a precursor to NAD+. 

This means that in the body, NMN converts into NAD+ thanks to an enzyme known as nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase (Nmnat) [4].

The levels of NMN and, as a result, NAD+ decline as we age. Precursors like NMN, which turn into NAD in the body, are currently the most effective way to raise the levels of this molecule in the shortest time.  

Supplementing the cells with NMN is important because of the rapid decline of NAD+ as we age. In a paper published in Nature Aging, Janssens and colleagues found that NAD+ was the most reduced metabolite in older adults’ muscle tissue [5].

The paper also revealed that physically-impaired older individuals had the lowest NAD+ levels. Older adults who exercised had NAD+ levels closer to young adults. This means that there’s a strong correlation between NAD+ levels and age, but increased NAD+ levels are linked to healthier aging. 

Another study by Massudi at the University of New South Wales revealed that NAD+ levels in the body are associated with changes that come as we age. The research found that NAD+ levels drop about 50% between the ages of 40 to 60 [6].

The good news is replenishing your body with NAD+ could be a therapeutic strategy to improve your quality of life and ensure healthier aging. According to a study published in Translational Medicine of Aging, boosting NAD+ levels as we age comes with positive therapeutic potential [7].   

Luckily, quality supplements can help you replenish your NAD+ levels. But what’s the best way to boost NAD+ levels in the body? Let’s take a look. 

Differences Between NMN and NAD+: Which is Better? 

Here are a few differences between NMN and NAD+ and why choose one over the other:

NMN is a Precursor to NAD+

Precursors assist the cells to make more NAD+. NAD+ has a few different precursors, but the most efficient and at close proximity to it are nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). 

Both precursors have been shown to increase the levels of NAD+ in the body when taken as supplements. 

The main difference between these two precursors is that NMN is closer to NAD+ in the conversion chain. Namely, NMN directly converts into NAD+ in the body, while NR turns into NMN. 

As the last precursor in the line, NMN is a step closer to NAD+ and has the most direct route, hence being recommended as the best way to supplement NAD+.  

Molecular Structure

NAD and NMN are two highly complex molecules that differ in structure and roles in the body. NAD is made out of nicotinamide and adenine molecules held together through phosphate groups.   

NAD acts as a crucial assistant in several cell processes, including moving electrons around, mending DNA, and managing the activity of certain genes. 

On the other hand, NMN serves as a special ingredient that helps in the formation of NAD. It consists of nicotinamide, a sugar molecule riboside, and a phosphate group. NMN plays a key role in generating energy within cells, and its participation in numerous biological activities is vital. 

Boosting the production of NAD by taking in NMN can be a positive step for maintaining the health of our cells and managing energy levels efficiently.

Potential Absorption Differences 

There are some absorption differences between NMN and NAD+ that modern science has now solved. 

NAD+ is a Big Molecule

NAD+ is a big molecule with a poor ability to permeate the cellular walls of the brain. Therefore, the only way to take this molecule was through an intravenous infusion. 

However, with the advancements in science, things have changed and NAD+ is now also available as a supplement.

NAD+ is a delicate molecule, so simply putting it into a pill form would not yield positive results. The only way this phosphorylated molecule can enter a cell is by being carried in by a transporter. 

According to research, NAD+ taken orally is broken down into common precursors (NMN) before the cell even has a chance to absorb it. So, this molecule has to be broken down into smaller molecules before entering the cell. As a result, the precursors are being converted back to NAD+ within the cell [8].

To combat this, we’ve created a special formula that enhances NAD+ absorption through trimethylglycine and liposomal delivery. Our Bio NAD+ anti-aging supplements effortlessly deliver 500 mg of NAD+ per capsule into the body. 

On the other hand, NMN taken orally has a great bioavailability and absorption seen through elevated NAD+ levels in the blood. One study in mice found that intestinal tissues have a transporter named Slc12a8, which helps NMN enter the cells intact where it can be converted to NAD+ [9]. 

However, this needs to be investigated further as another study published in Nature Metabolism by Schmidt and Brenner found no evidence of this NMN transporter [10].  

Since NMN supplementation shows a boost in NAD+ levels in the body, it’s safe to say that human cells are excellent at using NMN to produce more NAD+ naturally. If you want to amp up the levels of NAD+ in your body, supplement it with NMN or NAD+. 

NAD+ Is More Challenging to Produce as a Supplement

Aside from potential bioavailability differences, NAD+ is difficult to maintain in a supplement form because it quickly loses its potency. When exposed to light and heat, it degrades easily and also deteriorates when exposed to water. 

With that said, it’s possible to create a stable NAD+ formula, but it has to be very high quality. Our Premium  NAD+ formula is made to enhance the delivery and absorption of this molecule. 

In the past, NAD+ capsules were too big to swallow because a single molecule of NAD+ is more than twice the weight of its precursor’s NMN. So, a capsule of NAD+ would have twice as many molecules as the same-size capsule of NMN.

This was discovered during a clinical study of patients with schizophrenia published by the British Journal of Psychiatry. The scientists discovered that a 250 mg capsule of NAD+ was too big to swallow, so they had to split the capsule into two 125 mg capsules [11].

Today, things are different. Many companies, including Myogenix have successfully formulated an oral supplement that provides 500 mg of NAD+ in a standard capsule.  

We Get NMN and NAD+ Through Our Diets

NMN is present in lots of healthy foods, including meat, broccoli, avocado, etc. We get NAD+ supply by consuming a precursor like NMN. 

However, the natural levels of NMN in food are not enough to noticeably boost the levels of NAD+. Therefore, supplementing with NMN can help mitigate the decline. Studies show that supplementation of NMN significantly increases the levels of NAD+ in the blood.

Choosing the Right NMN Supplement

If you want to boost your health and well-being, thinking about using NMN supplements is a smart move. It's really important to pick top-notch products from places you can trust. 

 

Before you choose an NMN supplement, check if it has been tested by independent labs for its strength and purity. Also, talk to a healthcare expert to know the right amount to use and to avoid any interference with other medicines. 

 

If you're looking for a reliable place to get your NMN supplements, check out the Mytogenix product page. We are known for our transparency and quality products, which are always worth pursuing when it comes to your health. 

 

FAQs on NMN vs. NAD+

 

Q: Should I take NMN and NAD+?

A: You certainly can, but experts recommend starting with one of these and increasing the dose or taking both as you start to see results. NMN converts into NAD+ in your cells, but taking both may serve as a more direct path to promoting healthy aging and longevity.  

 

Q: What is better than NMN?

A: Some experts consider nicotinamide riboside (NR) to be an excellent alternative to NMN. There are some studies that show the efficacy and safety of this molecule, which, by the way, is a precursor to NMN itself. Both of these molecules are connected and play a role in boosting NAD+ production in the human body.  

 

Q: What is the recommended dosage for NAD+?

A: There’s no set in stone dosage of how much NAD+ to take. Anywhere from 250 mg to 500 mg per day is considered safe and shouldn’t cause any side effects.  

 

Q: Does David Sinclair take NMN or NAD?

A: Professor Sinclair takes 1g of NMN every morning. He takes NMN and resveratrol with a small amount of full-fat yogurt in the morning. 

 

Q: Is NMN just vitamin B3? 

A: NMN is not identical to vitamin B3, also known as niacin, although it is derived from it through the modification of nicotinamide, one of its forms. Niacin, a water-soluble vitamin, is present in two distinct forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide.

 

While NMN originates from niacin or vitamin B3, it is not classified as a vitamin itself but rather a byproduct of it. These two entities, while closely related, serve different purposes within the body. The conversion of nicotinamide to nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is facilitated by the enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT). 

 

It's important to note that despite being a derivative of the nicotinamide variant of vitamin B3, NMN doesn't fit the conventional definition of a vitamin. Vitamins are essential substances that the body cannot produce in ample quantities, necessitating their intake through our diet to aid in various bodily functions. Thus, NMN stands apart, functioning as a biologically active compound that supports, rather than sustains, the body's nutritional needs.

 

Q: Is It OK to take NMN everyday? 

A: The long-term effects of NMN have not been investigated yet. Current research shows that any dose of NMN consumed by tested subjects was really well-tolerated. Therefore, taking 900 mg or 1,200 mg of NMN daily has been proven safe for up to 12 weeks. With that said, more research is needed, so taking breaks in between can be beneficial. 

Teaser: 

Discover the key distinctions between NAD+ and NMN, two vital molecules in cellular energy production, aging processes, wellness and longevity. Click for more. 

 

References 

1. Okabe, K., Yaku, K., Tobe, K., & Nakagawa, T. (2019b). Implications of altered NAD metabolism in metabolic disorders. Journal of Biomedical Science, 26(1).
2. Irie, J., Inagaki, E., Fujita, M., Nakaya, H., Mitsuishi, M., Yamaguchi, S., Yamashita, K., Shigaki, S., Ono, T., Yukioka, H., Okano, H., Nabeshima, Y. I., Imai, S., Yasui, M., Ohta, M., & Itoh, H. (2020b). Effect of oral administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide on clinical parameters and nicotinamide metabolite levels in healthy Japanese men. Endocrine Journal, 67(2), 153–160.
3. Janssens, G. E., Houtkooper, R. H., & Hoeks, J. (2022b). NAD+ to assess health in aging humans. Aging, 14(15), 5962–5963. 
4. Okabe, K., Yaku, K., Uchida, Y., Fukamizu, Y., Sato, T., Sakurai, T., Tobe, K., & Nakagawa, T. (2022b). Oral administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide is safe and efficiently increases blood nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels in healthy subjects. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9. 
5. Janssens, G. E., Grevendonk, L., Zapata-Pérez, R., Schomakers, B. V., De Vogel-Van Den Bosch, J., Geurts, J. M., Van Weeghel, M., Schrauwen, P., Houtkooper, R. H., & Hoeks, J. (2022). Healthy aging and muscle function are positively associated with NAD+ abundance in humans. Nature Aging, 2(3), 254–263. 
6. Massudi, H., Grant, R., Braidy, N., Guest, J., Farnsworth, B., & Guillemin, G. J. (2012). Age-Associated Changes In Oxidative Stress and NAD+ Metabolism In Human Tissue. PLOS ONE, 7(7), e42357.
7. Aman, Y., Qiu, Y., Tao, J., & Fang, E. F. (2018). Therapeutic potential of boosting NAD+ in aging and age-related diseases. Translational Medicine of Aging, 2, 30–37.
8. Kimura, N., Fukuwatari, T., Sasaki, R., & Shibata, K. (2006). Comparison of Metabolic Fates of Nicotinamide, NAD⁺ and NADH Administered Orally and Intraperitoneally; Characterization of Oral NADH. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 52(2), 142–148. 
9. Grozio, A., Mills, K. F., Yoshino, J., Bruzzone, S., Sociali, G., Tokizane, K., Lei, H. C., Cunningham, R. P., Sasaki, Y., Migaud, M. E., & Imai, S. (2019). Slc12a8 is a nicotinamide mononucleotide transporter. Nature Metabolism, 1(1), 47–57.
10. Schmidt, M. S., & Brenner, C. (2019). Absence of evidence that Slc12a8 encodes a nicotinamide mononucleotide transporter. Nature Metabolism, 1(7), 660–661.
11. Kline, N. S., Barclay, G., Cole, J. O., Esser, A. H., Lehmann, H. E., & Wittenborn, J. R. (1967). Controlled evaluation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in the treatment of chronic schizophrenic patients. British Journal of Psychiatry, 113(500), 731–742.