Introduction
The global increase in life expectancy has led to a higher prevalence of age-related diseases, creating a demand for anti-aging health products. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) has gained attention as a promising supplement due to its ability to increase nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in the body. This article explores the potential therapeutic benefits of NMN, safety concerns, and the urgent need for further clinical investigations.
Overview of NMN as an Anti-Aging Product
NMN is a precursor to NAD+, a molecule that decreases with aging and is associated with various age-related issues. By supplementing with NMN, NAD+ levels can be elevated, potentially slowing down age-related complications. Several in vivo studies have shown positive therapeutic effects of NMN on age-induced diseases.
Safety Concerns and Clinical Investigations
Although preclinical and limited clinical studies have investigated the safety concerns of NMN administration, there is a lack of comprehensive clinical safety and efficacy studies. Given the influx of NMN-based anti-aging products on the market, further clinical investigations are needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of NMN supplementation.
Promising Effects of NMN
Numerous studies have investigated the promises and efficacy of NMN as an anti-aging health product. In animal models, NMN administration has shown positive effects on insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and age-induced complications such as Alzheimer's disease, obesity, and kidney injuries. NMN has also demonstrated cardioprotective effects, improved cognition, enhanced neuronal DNA repair, and extended lifespan in animal models.
NAD+ and Aging
Aging is associated with a decrease in NAD+ levels due to NAD+ consuming enzymes. NMN compensates for the depleted NAD+ levels caused by these enzymes and can reverse mitochondrial dysfunction, cognitive impairments, DNA damage, and sirtuin gene inactivation. Increasing NAD+ levels can be achieved through conditions like calorie restriction, fasting, lack of glucose, and exercise.
Safety and Long-Term Effects of NMN
While NMN is marketed as an anti-aging health product, its safety and efficacy at high doses have not been established. Potential adverse effects include neurodegeneration, decreased insulin sensitivity, and liver abnormalities. Long-term effects and potential interactions with other interventions need further study. It is important to carefully prescribe NMN supplementation based on age-related deficiencies and health conditions.
Conclusion
NMN shows promise as an effective anti-aging health product, but further clinical investigations are needed to establish its safety and efficacy in humans. The long-term effects and potential interactions with other interventions warrant further study. Consumer advocacy groups call for stricter regulations and standards for marketing anti-aging health products.
Title of paper: Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) as an anti-aging health product - Promises and safety concerns
Author(s): Nadeeshani H, Li J, Ying T, Zhang B, Lu J.
Year published: 2021
Published in: J Adv Res
Original article can be found here.
