6 ways NMN helps with age-related effects
We can't stop the ageing process, its inevitable and its the way of life. However,
recent scientific advancements have revealed methods to decelerate the speed of the ageing process, one promising solution being NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide).
Exciting findings from recent studies indicate that NMN holds the potential to reverse age-related decline in animals1. In mice, NMN has demonstrated improvements in energy production, muscle function, skin health, and sleep quality. Notably, it has also been linked to a remarkable 20% increase in their lifespan - suggesting this has the potential to change the way we age and live.
Based on the existing evidence, NMN emerges as a powerful supplement with diverse benefits in alleviating the ageing process. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive exploration of NMN and its potential advantages.
1. NMN is essential for cell energy production
NMN is a type of nucleotide that is found in plants and animals and is the precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) which is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in metabolism and energy production. It is necessary for the production of ATP, the body’s main source of energy. NAD+ is also involved in other important cellular processes, such as DNA repair and regulating gene expression.
2. NMN has been shown to boost energy levels and stamina
In a 2021 randomized controlled trial, NMN was tested in a group of 48 middle-aged amateur runners undergoing a six-week training program. The participants who received NMN demonstrated notable enhancements in aerobic capacity and endurance compared to the control group2.
The mechanism behind NMN's efficiency is believed to involve the stimulation of mitochondrial production, which are the cellular powerhouses, leading to heightened energy production and enhanced stamina. NMN has also demonstrated its ability to safeguard cells from exercise-induced damage by increasing the oxygen capacity of skeletal muscle.
3. NMN can improve cognitive function
Numerous animal studies have indicated that NMN possesses the potential to enhance cognitive function. By aiding in the protection and restoration of nerve cells, which tend to deteriorate as we age, NMN is believed to facilitate improved memory, focus, and other cognitive abilities.
A large review study published in August 2022 concluded that NMN could be effective for different forms of dementia including age-related decline 3.
While NMN exhibits promise as a cognitive enhancer, additional research and direct comparative studies are necessary to validate its effectiveness in humans.
4. NMN may improve skin health and slow ageing
The advantages of NMN in promoting skin health have been extensively documented, suggesting improved complexion and a reduction in age-related indicators.
Recent research has highlighted that supplementing with NMN can contribute to the improved appearance of the skin by diminishing inflammation and stimulating the production of collagen. NMN has also demonstrated its ability to safeguard the skin against damage caused by UV exposure. Through the activation of specific proteins known as sirtuins, NMN plays a protective role against various age-related skin concerns, including wound healing, wrinkles, UV damage, and skin cancers4.
5. NMN has shown to boost immunity
NMN, a compound known for its immune-boosting properties, has been shown to enhance the production of white blood cells—an essential component in the defense against infections. Recent research indicates that NMN achieves this effect by stimulating the production of Interleukin-6, a protein crucial for immune response5.
6. NMN can help with weight loss
Increasing evidence suggests that NMN can aid in weight loss by activating the sirtuin gene, which plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. By activating this gene, NMN can enhance metabolism and promote fat burning.
A study involving mice demonstrated that those given NMN experienced weight loss and exhibited lower levels of body fat compared to those not administered NMN. Additionally, the NMN-treated mice demonstrated higher levels of energy and stamina.
While NMN is not specifically marketed as a weight loss supplement, when combined with calorie restriction, it can improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility, ultimately leading to increased weight loss6.
Sources
1. Mills, K. F., Yoshida, S., Stein, L. R., Grozio, A., Kubota, S., Sasaki, Y., Redpath, P., Migaud, M. E., Apte, R. S., Uchida, K., Yoshino, J., & Imai, S. I. (2016). Long-Term Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Mitigates Age-Associated Physiological Decline in Mice. Cell metabolism, 24(6), 795–806. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2016.09.013
2. Liao, B., Zhao, Y., Wang, D., Zhang, X., Hao, X., & 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), 54. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-021-00442-4
3. Campbell J. M. (2022). Supplementation with NAD+ and Its Precursors to Prevent Cognitive Decline across Disease Contexts. Nutrients, 14(15), 3231. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153231
4. Su, S., Ndiaye, M., Singh, C. K., & Ahmad, N. (2020). Mitochondrial Sirtuins in Skin and Skin Cancers. Photochemistry and photobiology, 96(5), 973–980. https://doi.org/10.1111/php.13254
5. Xie, N., Zhang, L., Gao, W. et al. NAD+ metabolism: pathophysiologic mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Sig Transduct Target Ther 5, 227 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41392-020-00311-7
6. 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), bqab006. https://doi.org/10.1210/endocr/bqab006