Is NMN a miracle cure for aging?
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a substance, a kind of precursor to vitamin B3, that occurs in your body and is important for the production of energy in your cells. It helps your body make another substance called NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), which is essential for many processes, such as converting food into energy and repairing damaged DNA.
As you get older, the amount of NAD+ in your body decreases, which can contribute to aging and the development of age-related diseases. By taking NMN as a supplement, you can increase the amount of NAD+ in your body, which may help keep your cells healthier, improve your energy, and slow the effects of aging. Bottom line: NMN helps your body function better as you age by supporting the production of an important substance (NAD+) that keeps your cells young and healthy. Vitamin B3, and especially niacin, is a more basic form that your body can convert into NAD+, but this process involves several intermediate steps. NMN is an intermediate step further along in this process, which could make it more efficient at increasing NAD+ levels.
Mister NMN: David Sinclair
David Sinclair, a distinguished professor of genetics at Harvard University and a noted aging researcher, promotes NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) as a supplement because of the promising role it can play in slowing aging and promoting health later in life. He has been taking it for years and his father, who is 83 years old, also uses it. One of the most notable changes Sinclair saw in his father was a significant improvement in mobility and physical activity. Previously, his father had difficulty with certain physical activities and was less active. After starting NMN, Sinclair noticed his father returning to activities he hadn't done in years, such as walking, swimming and even playing tennis. This renewed physical energy and activity suggests that NMN may contribute to improved muscle function and endurance, even in old age.
Sinclair has also spoken of an increase in mental clarity and sharpness in his father. As people age, cognitive decline can become a challenge, but Sinclair noted that his father seemed more alert and engaged after taking NMN. This could indicate the potential neuroprotective effects of increased NAD+ levels, which are important for brain cell function.
David Sinclair's experiences with his father provide a fascinating glimpse into the potential benefits of NMN supplementation, especially in the elderly. Although these observations are anecdotal and further clinical research is needed to scientifically substantiate the effects, they suggest that NMN may potentially contribute to better mobility, mental acuity, energy and overall well-being in older adults. Sinclair's stories about his father have contributed to the growing interest in NMN as a supplement that can aid in healthy aging.
Here is a video about the effects of NMN on David Sinclair's father: https://www.tiktok.com/@longevity2.0/video/7339724155014712618?_r=1&_t=8owfAe2luq1
What does NMN do?
Increase NAD+ Levels
NMN is a direct precursor to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), an essential molecule in the body involved in energy production and cell repair. As people age, NAD+ levels in the body decrease, leading to a reduction in cell energy and an increase in aging-related problems. Sinclair's research has shown that increasing NAD+ levels through NMN supplementation can reverse or slow this process.
Support DNA repair
One of the most important functions of NAD+ is to support the DNA repair process. Our cells are constantly exposed to DNA damage caused by UV radiation, free radicals and other environmental factors. Sinclair has shown that higher NAD+ levels achieved by NMN can enhance the DNA repair mechanism, which is essential for maintaining good health as we age.
Positive results in animal studies
In his laboratory, Sinclair has conducted many animal studies in which mice were given NMN. These studies have shown that NMN supplementation can lead to improved mitochondrial function, increased insulin sensitivity, improved muscle function and even longer lifespan. Although animal studies are not always directly translatable to humans, these findings suggest that NMN has potential as an anti-aging supplement.
Personal belief and usage
Sinclair is known for using NMN himself as part of his personal anti-aging strategy. He has indicated in interviews and his book “Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don't Have To” that he takes NMN to increase his own NAD+ levels. His personal experiences and the research he conducts in his laboratory have contributed to his belief that NMN can be an effective way to combat aging.
Scientific basis and collaboration
Sinclair's promotion of NMN is based on a strong scientific foundation. He collaborates with other researchers worldwide to investigate the effects of NAD+ increasing agents, such as NMN, on aging and age-related diseases. This collaborative research has led to a better understanding of the role of NAD+ in aging and the potential benefits of NMN.
Future potential
Although research into NMN and NAD+ is still in its relatively early stages, Sinclair believes NMN is one of the promising molecules that could help extend health span (the time a person lives in good health) and possibly even lifespan . He promotes NMN as part of a broader strategy to slow aging and improve quality of life in later life.
Critical notes on the use of NMN
Although David Sinclair's experiences with his father are impressive, it is important to remain critical of the use of NMN as a supplement. Some points to consider:
Limited clinical research in humans
Most studies on NMN and NAD+ to date have been conducted in animals. Although the results are promising, there has not been enough large-scale clinical research in humans to determine the long-term effectiveness and safety of NMN. The experiences of individuals, such as those of Sinclair's father, are valuable, but they are not conclusive evidence.
Possible side effects
As with any supplement, side effects can occur, especially with long-term use. Because NMN increases NAD+ levels, it is theoretically possible that it could influence processes in the body that we do not yet fully understand. Without extensive studies it is difficult to predict what long-term effects NMN may have, positive or negative.
Unknown drug interactions
For people already taking other medications, adding NMN may lead to unknown interactions. Because the effect of elevated NAD+ levels on various systems in the body has not yet been fully investigated, it is possible that NMN may influence the action of certain medications, especially in the elderly who often take multiple medications. David Sinclair advises people who have cancer not to use NMN.
Cost and accessibility
NMN supplements can be pricey, which makes them less accessible to everyone. In addition, there is a growing market for anti-aging supplements, where the quality and purity of products can vary greatly. It is important to look critically at the source of NMN and choose reliable suppliers.
Conclusion
Although NMN shows potential as a means of healthy aging, there are still important questions that need to be answered. Until there are extensive clinical studies confirming safety and effectiveness in humans, caution is advised. The use of NMN should always be done in consultation with a doctor, especially in older adults with existing health conditions or medications.
Sources:
- David Sinclair: https://sinclair.hms.harvard.edu/people/david-sinclair
- https://www.gezondheidenwetenschap.be/gezondheid-in-de-media/nieuw-onderzoek-met-nmn-supplementen-tegen-veroudering
- https://www.nmn.com/
- https://examine.com/supplements/nicotinamide-mononucleotide/
About this blogger
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
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been taking this for a while.
Dear Patjqm,
Can you also indicate which brand NMN you use and where it can be purchased in Thaland?
I have been taking NMN for over 60 days. It had no effect on me: I didn't feel more energetic. I also had the 'health of my cells' tested before and after the 60 days, but no improvement was noted there either.
Nik, 60 days is quite short. You will notice most of the effects after 1 or 2 years. Did you have real NMN, there are a lot of fake ones offered on the internet? It is also important how and when you take it.
I have been using it for about 10 months now and am now starting to notice things, such as better and deeper sleep (lots of dreams). More energy and strength. I can concentrate better and my memory has improved. In addition, hear and see better. My skin is also getting better.
I don't know if all of this can be 100% attributed to NMN because I also take other supplements.
I'm also curious how and where you had your cells tested, because I've never heard of that.
By the way, NMN is no longer available without a prescription in America, the FDA sees it as a medicine, which also says something.
Dear Peter,
Buy in Thailand (Fascino?) or order from iHerb in USA?
Thank you!
Hello Kees, you can try it here: https://www.skinsunlimited.nl/en/shop/nmn/ (no idea if they deliver to Thailand). All pills and powder NMN from Uthever are original https://www.uthever.com/ I think iHerb is also reliable. You have to be careful with Lazada or Amazon, there is a lot of junk in there.
By the way, if you seriously want to get started with NMN, you can also consider taking TMG or Betaine. A somewhat technical explanation why can be seen here: https://www.tiktok.com/@eternalwellness100/video/7315447160340778246
I read here that the sale of NMN is not allowed in the EU:
https://www.ivg-info.nl/nieuws/verkoop-nmn-is-niet-toegestaan/
Yes, the EU that decides what is good for us and what is not…. Fortunately, I can decide that myself.
By the way, in the US, Big Pharma, NMN, wants to change something and then patent it so that they can make billions from it. I wouldn't be surprised if this also happens in Europe.
Dear Peter, Via that link from Cornelis I read: “The sale of NMN is not (yet) permitted throughout Europe. In November 2022, the European Commission assessed that NMN is an unauthorized novel food. This means that the safety of NMN must first be investigated before it can be sold.”
Yes, applies to all health claims. The EU wants to get involved in everything. They can screw up as far as I'm concerned, I can decide for myself what is and is for my health.
I was told that a 60 day trial period was sufficient to see any improvement. There are advanced devices that can measure at cell level. NMN is quite pricey, so I expected some results. I now take other supplements and that makes me feel better in terms of energy.
There are advanced devices that can measure at cell level. Maybe…. I don't know them. Do you have an example or a link?
Take a look at Tanita for professionals, they are very advanced, fun to read if you are interested in these types of developments.
I have an advanced and expensive Tanita scale here at home. It measures a lot but nothing at the cellular level.
Like I said: look under professional equipment, they don't just make scales. By the way, they do have a scale that measures the phase angle. The phase angle indicates the health status of the body's cells.
This is almost correct: 'Conclusion
Although NMN shows potential as a means of healthy aging, there are still important questions that need to be answered. Until there are extensive clinical studies confirming safety and effectiveness in humans, caution is advised. The use of NMN should always be done in consultation with a physician, especially in older adults with existing health conditions or medications.”
NMN has not yet shown any potential. This is indeed only possible after a long-term (5-10 years) double-blind study in which a few thousand randomly selected people from all social groups use either a placebo or a medicine/supplement without that person or the researcher knowing who is using what. Only then can we really show the potential, the effectiveness. Until then, we should not promote the drug.
Yes, but a completely nonsensical discussion, Tino. Such studies are prohibitively expensive, so that will never happen. The only ones who can afford something like this are companies such as Pfizer, Roche, Novartis and the like, but the pharmaceutical industry is not interested in helping people grow old healthily, they make no money from that. Take pills against diabetes 2, high blood pressure, heart failure, obesity, etc.
By the way, your double-blind placebo studies on medicines don't mean much either, only healthy (young) people are selected for that. And then the results are still manipulated. The chemical industry (big Pharma) has so much money that they can easily bribe researchers and doctors, which often happens.
In the Netherlands, approximately 33.000 people are admitted acutely every year due to the use of medicines. Of these, about 1000 people die every year. Do you know how many people die every year from vitamin poisoning or incorrect supplement use? Zero.
I don't really like 'whataboutism': Big Pharma is much worse and more dangerous!'
That is true, but that does not mean that NMN is good and that was my doubt and question.
I suggest we give everyone a placebo. Research shows that it can solve or improve many complaints and problems, especially if it is recommended in a very positive way. Cheap, harmless and effective!
Beware, I bought 12 Pottekes Nmn from a Chinese website,
When analyzed it was found to contain only minimal Nmn. Such as honey mustard with 29% sugar and 1% honey
NMN has no consumption history before 1997, therefore it is not approved (yet?). That is no reason to immediately conclude that it would be dangerous. NAD+ has been approved, NMN is a precursor of this.
What I miss in these types of postings, including previous postings about vitamins and minerals, is the following.
Of course you can try this remedy, test it, etc., whatever you want.
I have been using vitamins for a large part of my life, including a high dose of Vit.C, but I will have it tested to see whether there is a need to use them. And which ones are necessary.
After all, what the body does not need disappears via the usual routes.
A waste of money and I also don't let the EU tell me what to use and what not to use. The EU started more than 20 years ago with negative advice on many matters relating to the holistic person and, for example, homeopathic remedies.