If you’re an alternative medicine enthusiast, you must have noted a significant increase in the number of NMN products in the recent past.
NMN supplements have especially gained prominence for their perceived anti-aging benefits. Research also suggests these products may offer holistic health benefits by treating or remedying various ailments.
But for people who’ve never tried NMN before, there may be nagging doubts as to the compound’s efficacy. Do NMN supplements truly deliver on their health claims?
This article shall attempt to put that question into a better perspective. Read on as we delve into the perceived health benefits, potential adverse effects, and precautions while using NMN.
Introducing NMN
As already stated, NMN products have become a staple in the alternative medicine industry. There are multiple places where you can buy the best NMN supplement and administer it for various health benefits.
But before we delve into NMN’s potential therapeutic effects, it’s best to start by familiarizing ourselves with these supplements.
NMN is an abbreviation for nicotinamide mononucleotide, a nucleotide obtained from various natural sources, including ribose, niacin, nicotinamide, and nicotinamide riboside.
Nicotinamide mononucleotide is a naturally-occurring molecule. It’s a precursor in the biosynthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a compound involved in various cellular and metabolic processes.
Human-based studies have shown that NMN works synergistically with several enzymes in the body to generate nicotinamide adenine nucleotide (NADH). NADH is a reduced form of NAD. It differs from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), which is a modified form of NAD.
Do You Need NMN Supplements?
NMN may be a natural molecule. But its level in the body decreases with age.
Many studies indicate that seniors aged 60 or over have less than half the NMN amount they had in their teenage years. Supplementing with NNM helps increase the levels of the molecule as well as NAD in the body.
What Can NMN Do?
NMN is a precursor molecule to NAD, and NAD is responsible for all cellular functions.
NAD plays a pivotal role in regulating several aspects that help your cells to perform optimally. These include energy metabolism, gene expression, DNA repair, and cellular stress responses.
The following are the specific benefits of supplementing with nicotinamide mononucleotide.
1. NMN May Reverse Premature Aging
Aging is a phenomenon that has fascinated humans for ages. The quest for immortality has seen many people fall for numerous anti-aging scams. While NMN is far from being an elixir of life, the molecule might slow down the natural aging process through its positive cellular effects.
One way NMN might reverse premature aging is through its ability to optimize mitochondrial functions. What makes the supplement so effective is that it can reverse aging right from the cellular level by preventing mitochondrial degeneration.
2. NMN May Lower the Risks of Diabetes
There’s limited research directly pointing to NMN’s antidiabetic properties. However, several studies have established a nexus between diabetes and low NMN concentrations in the body.
One experiment found that NMN could improve muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women. Researchers deduced that there could be a relationship between low levels of these molecules and high risks of diabetes.
3. NMN May Improve Cardiovascular and Cognitive Function
The heart and brain are other vital organs in the body whose performance reduces significantly with age. The fact that NMN may boost cellular functions speaks to its ability to prevent cardiovascular and cerebral degeneration.
Research indicates that NMN and NAD may improve heart and brain functions by reducing oxidative stress to the mitochondria. This can go a long way in reducing the risks of related chronic conditions, such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
4. NMN May Boost Sleep Quality
Sleep deprivation affects millions worldwide. The condition typically results from underlying triggers, such as anxiety. Nicotinamide mononucleotide has demonstrated tremendous efficacy against various sleep disorders, particularly jet lag.
Studies have found that NMN and NAD can treat jet lag by adjusting circadian rhythms. So, you might want to spare a thought for NMN supplements if planning a long flight.
How Much NMN Can I Take?
A study by Keio University found NMN to be safe for single doses of up to 500 mg. However, researchers have yet to agree on standard NMN dosages.
Since users differ by age and body chemistry, the common wisdom is to start with lower doses and then build momentum slowly.
How Soon Does NMN Kick In?
Mice-based studies have shown that NMN supplements get absorbed into the bloodstream within 10 minutes of oral uptake.
This duration will obviously be longer for humans, considering the difference in metabolic rates between mice and humans.
On average, you can expect NMN to kick in 30 – 45 minutes after oral intake.
Do NMN Supplements Have Adverse Effects?
NMN doesn’t seem to pose any adverse effects. Neither human- nor animal-based studies indicate these supplements may trigger negative reactions.
Perhaps gastrointestinal issues are the only potential side effects of NMN. This is especially true for new users whose bodies may still adjust to oral supplements. But even then, the effects are likely mild and short-lasting bouts of nausea or abdominal discomfort.
Final Word
NMN supplements boast numerous science-backed health benefits. These products also pose no serious adverse effects. However, NMN’s efficacy depends on the doses consumed.
Remember to discuss this with your physician before integrating NMN supplements into your wellness routine. Most importantly, stick to the recommended dosages as a precaution against adverse events.
