Why This Matters to Us:
As longevity enthusiasts, we’re always on the lookout for new ways to fight the effects of aging and maintain optimal health. This study highlights natural and supplemental strategies that could help reduce the visible signs of aging by addressing the biological causes of skin aging, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. Understanding how compounds like NMN and sulforaphene work allows us to explore effective interventions into healthy aging, potentially enhancing both skin health and longevity.
The Detail:
This study aimed to compare the anti-aging effects of NMN and sulforaphene, a key compound found in broccoli and other leafy greens. Ageing affects the skin in various ways, including dryness, thinning, and the loss of elasticity. At the cellular level, two major drivers of aging are oxidative stress, caused by highly reactive molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inflammation, which is the body’s response to damage but worsens with age. Both NMN and sulforaphene were tested to see how well they addressed these issues.
To evaluate the effects, researchers used D-galactose (D-gal) mice. These mice were injected with a sugar that rapidly accelerates aging, making them a useful model for studying anti-aging treatments. The mice were sorted into groups, receiving either one of three doses of sulforaphene (10, 30, or 50 mg/kg) or 100 mg/kg of NMN over eight weeks.
What they found was remarkable: both NMN and sulforaphene improved the skin health of these aged mice significantly. One of the key markers measured in the study was hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the skin that keeps it hydrated and smooth. Levels of HA decline as we age, contributing to dryness and wrinkles. Both treatments restored HA levels in the skin, but NMN appeared to be just as effective, or even slightly better, compared to higher doses of sulforaphene.
Additionally, the treatments improved other biological markers of skin aging. Both boosted antioxidant capacity by neutralising ROS, which helps prevent oxidative stress. Both also reduced levels of IL-6, a molecule that signals inflammation. The results showed that NMN provided a stronger improvement in these areas than sulforaphene.
It is worth noting that previous research has already linked these compounds to general anti-aging effects. Sulforaphane (a compound similar to sulforaphene found in broccoli) has been shown to extend the lives of male mice, while NMN has been shown to increase lifespans in female mice. This makes them promising candidates not just for skin health but for overall longevity support.
However, when it comes to practical application, there’s still a debate as to whether taking NMN supplements is better for you than eating broccoli. Broccoli is rich in nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and fibre, which contribute to overall health. While NMN supplementation may restore levels of NAD+ (a molecule vital for energy production and DNA repair) depleted by poor diet and lack of exercise, it can't replace the benefits of a nutritious and balanced diet.
The study concluded that both NMN and sulforaphene offer potential for mitigating skin aging by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress while improving hydration and elasticity. However, human clinical trials are needed to determine whether these findings translate to similar benefits for humans.
You can explore the full study here.
By focusing on compounds like NMN and sulforaphene, we learn valuable lessons about how dietary choices and supplements can work together to combat aging. While NMN supplementation may be a useful addition for some, don’t underestimate the power of nutrient-rich foods like broccoli in supporting overall health and long