Anti-Aging & Longevity
NMN
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide · NAD+ precursor
What it is
NMN is a direct precursor to NAD+ — the cell can convert NMN into NAD+ in one enzymatic step. It's promoted by longevity researchers like David Sinclair and is one of the most popular oral longevity supplements. Unlike injectable NAD+ (which is uncomfortable), NMN is a daily oral capsule. FDA briefly questioned its supplement status in 2022 but it remains widely sold.
How it works
NMN gets converted to NAD+ inside cells. Higher NAD+ levels support mitochondrial energy production, sirtuin activity (longevity pathways), and DNA repair. Animal studies show meaningful lifespan and healthspan extension; human data is positive but more limited.
Benefits
- Increased NAD+ levels (oral, no injection needed)
- Improved cellular energy and mitochondrial function
- Better exercise capacity in older adults (clinical trials)
- Skin and metabolic improvements
- Theoretical longevity benefits (sirtuin activation)
Timeline
- Week 2–4
- Subtle energy improvements.
- Month 2–3
- Cumulative effects on metabolism, exercise capacity.
- Long-term
- Theoretical biological-age benefits over years.
Dosing & titration
Standard dose250–1000 mg orally daily
Sinclair protocol1000 mg AM with yogurt/fat
TimingAM (NAD+ pathway aligns with circadian rhythm)
When to titrate upMost users plateau at 500–1000 mg. Above 1000 mg, marginal benefit.
Side effects & risks
- Generally very well tolerated
- Mild GI upset (rare)
- Long-term human safety still being established
Quality varies wildly. Many cheap NMN products test low or contaminated. Buy from third-party-tested brands.
Typical price
$30–$100/mo30-day supply at standard doses. High-purity brands are at the upper end.
Studies
- Yoshino M et al. Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women — Clinical trial. PubMedScience, 2021
- Yoshino J et al. NAD+ Intermediates: The Biology and Therapeutic Potential of NMN and NR — Comprehensive review. PubMedCell Metabolism, 2018
- Search PubMed for NMN clinical trial — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.