What is NMN?

 

NMN, which stands for nicotinamide mononucleotide, is a type of molecule called nucleotide which our body makes naturally. Nucleotides play many roles in our body, including as the building blocks of DNA. 

NMN is one of the main precursors of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) — an essential enzyme for various critical cell functions, including metabolism, DNA repair, cell growth and survival. NAD+ is found in abundance in mitochondria, the cell cytoplasm and nucleus. It is required for the addition of poly-ADP ribose to proteins and the deacetylating activity of sirtuin enzymes, which are critical for regulating cell growth, energy metabolism, stress resistance, inflammation, circadian rhythm and neuronal function. 

NAD+ is the oxidized form of NAD and is the precursor to most chemical reactions involving NAD.

Our body needs NAD for a variety of functions including: 

Increase longevity

In our cells, NAD activates a group of proteins called sirtuins, which help repair our DNA. The activity of sirtuins is linked to longevity. On the flip side, low-NAD levels are associated with age-related diseases.

Our NMN levels naturally decline over time. People with different age-related conditions, including diabetes and liver diseases, may have lower levels of NMN and NAD. NMN may play a role in other aspects of aging, including heart and brain health. 

Have protective effects on the brain

NAD is thought to modulate the production of a protein that helps guard cells against impairment of mitochondrial function and oxidative stress. These cellular stressors are related to some neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Help reduce heart disease risk

High NAD levels in the blood reversed age-related arterial damage, which may help guard against heart disease.

Protect against cancer

Elevated NAD levels may help protect cells against oxidative stress and DNA damage, which are associated with cancer development. 

Help with jet lag

NAD may help adjust our internal clock, potentially helping ease jet lag or other circadian rhythm disorders.

Help aging muscles

High blood NAD levels helped improve muscle function, strength, and endurance.

NMN is found naturally in a variety of foods. Some NMN-rich dietary sources include: 

• avocados — 0.36 to 1.60 mg per 100 grams
• broccoli — 0.25 to 1.12 mg per 100 grams
• cabbage — up to 0.9 mg per 100 grams
• tomatoes — 0.26 to 0.30 mg per 100 grams
• raw beef — 0.06 to 0.42 mg per 100 grams

Small amounts of NMN are also found in cow’s milk, cucumbers and edamame.

NMN and NAD levels naturally decline with age, so many researchers have suggested that taking NMN supplements may help with age-related health concerns. While animal studies have found the supplement reversed many age-related health effects, the evidence in humans is still limited. More studies on these effects in humans are needed to investigate this potential benefit. Given the limited data available on taking NMN supplements, it is difficult to determine the ideal dose. Studies have found health benefits with doses as low as 250 mg of NMN per day, up to a maximum of 1,200 mg daily.