Nicotinamide mononucleotide is not new to us. It is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme involved in various cellular processes, including energy metabolism and DNA repair. You already know that NMN supplements increase NAD+ levels in the body, but it’s difficult to keep up to speed with the developing science and various human studies. It’s also difficult for most people to decipher the meaning of scientific research papers. We have scoured the research to bring you up-to-date scientific information so that you’re informed on the latest developments. Below is a summary of each human NMN study in langage that you can understand. You can follow each link to understand a bit more about each study  

1. A Promising Anti-Ageing Compound

A 2022 randomised controlled study published by Frontiers in Aging investigated the potential anti-ageing properties of Nicotinamide mononucleotide. The study, involving 66 adult and elderly participants, explored the safety and efficacy of the NMN supplement. Preliminary findings in the study suggest promising anti-ageing effects. It also explored that NMN's role in the NAD+/Sirtuin pathway is a key focus in understanding and potentially mitigating the effects of ageing.

2. Exploring NAD+ Enhancement In Animals And Its Human Implications

Animal studies have suggested that NMN could be a promising avenue for elevating nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels. The big question: does this hold for humans? 

In a study by GeroScience Journal in 2023, 80 healthy middle-aged adults were closely monitored as they received daily doses of either a placebo or varying levels of NMN over a 60-day period. The study found that the optimal daily NMN intake for maximum benefits was 600 mg. These findings tantalisingly hint at the potential for enhancing human health and potentially extending lifespan through NMN supplementation.

3. Exploring The Safety Of NAD+ As A Tool Against Age-related Disorders

Now, let's hop across the globe to Japan, where a group of scientists investigated the safety and metabolism of nicotinamide mononucleotide in healthy men. Recent research has unveiled the crucial role of cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels in ageing-related disorders. While studies in animal models have demonstrated the benefits of boosting cellular NAD+ levels, the safety of such approaches in humans remained uncertain. 

This clinical trial assessed the safety of single oral NMN administrations in 10 healthy men. The results were encouraging, as NMN was found to be safe, well-tolerated, and effectively metabolised without causing significant adverse effects. This study shows that NMN, as a potential therapeutic strategy, is safe for human consumption. 

4. NAD+ Increasing Insulin Sensitivity

One common condition with increasing prevalence as we age is diabetes. It occurs when the body is no longer sensitive to insulin. However, research by Science in 2021 discovered that nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation can significantly enhance muscle insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese prediabetic postmenopausal women. 

NMN significantly improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced insulin signalling in skeletal muscles, and promoted muscle remodelling. These findings offer a promising avenue for addressing metabolic dysfunction in this demographic, potentially paving the way for improved health and well-being.  

5. Unlocking The Safety Seal: NMN Supplements Preventing Age-related Diseases 

Reduced NAD+ has been linked to age-related diseases and metabolic issues. So, studies have shown the potential of NMN supplementation to address these concerns. In this study published in Scientific Reports, researchers investigated the safety of daily oral administration of 1250 mg of β-NMN for up to 4 weeks in healthy adults aged 20–65. 

Encouragingly, the results revealed that this NMN dosage was safe, well-tolerated, and did not result in significant physiological changes or adverse events. This study sheds light on the safety of NMN supplementation in humans.

6. Environmental And Genetic Factors In Relation To NMN 

It was hypothesised that environmental and genetic factors might play a part in the reduction of NAD+ levels in the body. A study published in the esteemed Nature Journal revealed that genetic and environmental factors influence ageing and longevity. Thus, it emphasises the importance of healthy lifestyles alongside using NMN supplements. 

For example, the discovery of genes affecting ageing could be harnessed to develop therapies that delay the onset of age-associated diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.

7. Is Chronic Supplementation With NMN Beneficial?  

Is there such a thing as an overdose?  The research published by the medical journal NPJ Aging demonstrated that chronic NMN supplementation effectively increased NAD+ concentrations in the blood, improved certain aspects of muscle function, and was well-tolerated with no adverse effects. This suggests NMN's promise in preventing age-related muscle dysfunction and offers a glimpse into potential anti-ageing interventions in humans.

8. Proteins In The Ageing Process

Challenging the conventional belief that ageing is an inevitable part of life, this study explores the possibility of intervening in the ageing process at a molecular level. Protein is essential for our body processes. However, when the balance is disturbed, they do not deliver as they should. 

Focusing on the balance of proteins in the body, this research published by the Society for Glycative Stress Research suggests that protein balance plays a crucial role in determining how quickly we age and how long we live. It emphasises the potential of manipulating protein balance to slow down or even reverse the ageing process, promising a future where we can improve the quality of life in our later years. 

Conclusion

NMN supplements continues to excite the longevity community in its ability to counter age-related health issues, with various human-based trials shedding light on their benefits, safety, and potential for enhancing healthspan. This holistic exploration of NMN's multifaceted implications underscores its significance in the quest for healthy ageing and longevity.