Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a molecule that is believed to have potential health benefits, including the ability to increase nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels in the body. NAD is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and is involved in a variety of physiological processes. Some researchers believe that boosting NAD levels may have potential benefits for longevity and overall health.
However, the safety and effectiveness of NMN as a dietary supplement are not fully established and more research is needed. Here, we review the current state of the research on NMN to help you make an informed decision about whether or not it is safe to take.
What is NMN?
NMN is a molecule that is involved in the production of NAD in the body. It is classified as a nucleotide, which is a molecule that is made up of a nitrogenous base, a sugar, and a phosphate group.
NMN is found in small amounts in some foods, such as milk and broccoli, but it can also be synthesized in a laboratory and made into a dietary supplement.
What are the Potential Health Benefits of NMN?
NMN has been shown to increase NAD levels in animal and cell-based studies, and some researchers believe that it may have potential health benefits as a result. For example, NAD is involved in energy metabolism and some studies have suggested that boosting NAD levels may improve physical performance and reduce fatigue.
NMN has also been shown to have anti-aging effects in animal studies and may have potential benefits for preventing age-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, more research is needed to determine the full range of potential health benefits of NMN and to understand how it works in the body.
Is NMN Safe to Take?
There is limited research on the safety of NMN in humans, and more studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of taking NMN as a dietary supplement.
One small study in healthy human subjects found that NMN was well-tolerated and did not cause any significant side effects. However, the study was relatively short-term (four weeks) and more research is needed to determine the long-term safety of NMN.
NMN may interact with certain medications, and it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with liver or kidney problems. It is also not recommended for people with a history of cancer, as NMN may have potential tumor-promoting effects.
Conclusion
NMN is a molecule that is believed to have potential health benefits, including the ability to increase NAD levels in the body. However, the safety and effectiveness of NMN as a dietary supplement are not fully established and more research is needed. If you are considering taking NMN, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for you.