Anti-aging supplements are very popular right now, targeting everything from skin and hair to metabolism and brain health. And the latest to join the ranks is nicotinamide mononucleotide – or NMN – a slightly quirky name that’s been popping up everywhere, especially within celebrity circles. These supplements aim to boost levels of a molecule in the body called NAD+, which plays a key role in cellular energy production and metabolic health.
Most notably, Kim Kardashian She revealed that she spent the last year taking NMN supplements, while other celebrities, including Kendall Jenner, Hailey BieberAnd Jennifer Aniston – I swear by NAD+ infusion therapy. (Bieber, for example, has said she plans to use it “for the rest of her life” so she “never gets old.”)
NMN supplements are also gaining traction On TikTokSome users claim that it can help you age reversibly, but what exactly does science say? While the role of nutritional supplements such as Melatonin or Vitamin patches Fairly simple, NMN is a little more…complex.
Read on to learn how NMN works, what supplements are supposed to do, and what the research actually shows.
Minor(ish) breakdown of NAD+
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) It is a crucial coenzyme molecule (or enzyme) found in all living cells. It plays an essential role in converting food into energy, repairing DNA, and supporting overall cellular function.
“NAD+ is essential for the development of healthy cellular reproduction and virtually every process within the body.” Amanda Corbett, PharmD, FCCP, FAIHMan associate professor at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, tells SELF. “Think of it like you need hemoglobin to carry oxygen throughout the body. NAD+ is a similarly critical factor within the body.”
A board-certified internist and longevity expert Amanda Khan, MDSELF says that NAD+ is “essential to the biology of longevity because it supports how efficiently our cells produce energy and respond to stress.”
NAD+ levels are normal Declines with age. Although not everyone may notice a difference, Dr. Kahn says this decrease can lead to decreased energy, slower recovery, and decreased physiological flexibility over time.
How the body makes NAD+, and why NMN gets so much attention
Your body makes and maintains NAD+ in several natural ways. Vitamin B3 (niacin and nicotinamide), found in foods such as poultry and fish Whole grainsIt is the primary food source. So when NAD+ levels start to decline with age, it seems logical to increase your intake of vitamin B3, right?
