NMN FOR LIFE EXTENSION
In June 2018 the WHO (World Health Organisation) added the classification of aging to its list of diseases. NMN Nicotinamide mononucleotide has been of great interest for many years now as a means of antiaging. Read on to learn about up to date information and advise around NMN supplementation.
WHAT IS NMN?
NMN is a precursor to NAD+. This NAD+ is essential for cell metabolism, proper cell functioning and DNA integrity. It is apparent that as we age dna methylation misfiring can leading to a host of ‘age related’ illnesses. In fact by middle age our stores of NAD+ are likely to be half that of our youth[i].
Benefits of NMN
What are the benefits of NMN?
- Increases NAD a coenzyme present in all living things that naturally declines with age.
- Numerous preliminary studies suggest NMN reverses mitochondrial dysfunction, and potentially extends lifespan.
- Increases adiponectin, homeostatic factor for regulating glucose levels, lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity
- A preliminary small study on older women showed it lowered AGE markers. Increased AGE markers are linked to skin aging.
- Improves quality of life.
Difference between NAD AND NMN
NMN is the precursor to NAD+. If taking NMN the body will convert it up to NAD+ as needed. NMN has been shown to be more stable than NAD and is rapidly absorbed from oral intake. Research has shown taking NMN has antiaging properties and could very well extend life or improve quality of life. [i]
HOW MUCH NMN SHOULD I TAKE?
Dosage depend on personal needs. As little as 150mg and as much as 1g are considered safe. The most recent 2023 human study trialled 300mg up 1,000mg daily with multiple positive outcomes concluded for all doses[i]. These benefits were seen in blood markers for insulin, cholesterol, etc. I would argue this supplement is only beneficial for 40 – 50 plus years old and depending on metabolic age. Anecdotal evidence would suggest this may be accurate as those younger fitter individuals have claimed no benefit and a stark increase in benefits as age increases. Therefore, the lowest working doses should be used and consider hormonal changes. See below.
NMN AND HORMONES
According to Dr. David Sinclair one of the leading researchers on aging and epigenetics, hormonal changes is something to look out for[i]. This has also been my experience in the clinic. I have seen increased estrogen, testosterone in a small number of patients. This can be positive or unwanted depending on medical history. For example in perimenopause women’s estrogen can fluctuate to very high to very low. Taking NMN during this time may increase estrogen further to an estrogen dominant state. However, once fully in menopause NMN has shown to be highly protective according to this study.[ii]
NMN AND COFACTORS
NMN, by improving cell metabolism, also increases the demands for detoxification. Supplements such as TMG trimethylglycine, an amino acid which helps the body metabolise homocysteine; NAC n-acetyl cysteine, an amino acid that increases major antioxidant glutathione; resveratrol with antiinflammatory effects; superoxide dismutase an enzyme that scavenges free radicals, are some examples of cofactors needed to support phase 1 and phase 2 detoxification. This topic of detoxification and phases deserves a separate post and often requires personalisation. Finally pathways for elimination I.e bowels and bladder should be in good health.
NMN IRELAND
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Siobhán Shinnors
Licenced Medical Herbalist Nutritionist & Yoga Therapy
Herbalist, Nutritionist, Iridologist and Yoga Therapy
Herbalist, Nutritionist, Iridologist and Yoga Therapy
