Introduction

Aging is a natural process that brings about various changes in our bodies over time. While it is a part of life, scientists have been studying the underlying mechanisms of aging to better understand its effects on our health and well-being. One area of research focuses on the role of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in the aging process. In this article, we will explore the science behind aging, how low NAD+ levels contribute to aging, and the exciting findings from human trials that demonstrate the positive effects of NMN supplementation in combating aging.

How does NMN address the biology of aging?

NMN raises cellular NAD+, which sits upstream of multiple aging hallmarks: mitochondrial function, sirtuin-driven DNA repair, and cellular senescence resistance. NAD+ declines by approximately 50% between ages 20 and 60 (Imai & Guarente 2014), and human RCTs show 250-500 mg/day of NMN restores levels within 8-12 weeks (Yoshino 2021). NMN targets a root cellular deficit, not a specific disease.

Role of NAD+ in Aging

NAD+ is an essential molecule involved in various cellular processes, including energy production and DNA repair. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, leading to decreased cellular energy production and impaired DNA repair mechanisms. This reduction in NAD+ has been linked to accelerated aging and the development of age-related diseases[1].

Low NAD+ Levels and Aging

Studies indicate that decreased NAD+ levels lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and impaired cellular function, all of which are signs of aging[2, 3]. Mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouses, are vital for energy production. As we age, mitochondrial function declines, causing a reduction in energy production and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which can damage cells[4].

Tested through Human Trials

Efficacy and Safety: Recent clinical trials involving humans have studied the impact of NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), on age-related factors. One study focused on healthy amateur runners and examined the effects of NMN supplementation on cardiovascular fitness. The results indicated that NMN enhanced the runners’ aerobic capacity during exercise training, suggesting better oxygen utilization in skeletal muscles[5].

Another trial assessed the safety and efficacy of NMN administration in healthy individuals. The study reported that intravenous NMN administration was safe and increased blood NAD+ levels without harming blood cells. In addition, NMN administration significantly lowered blood triglyceride levels, which could help prevent diseases related to high triglyceride levels[6].

Finally, a dose-dependent clinical trial with middle-aged adults showed that NMN supplementation boosted blood NAD+ levels and enhanced physical performance. Participants receiving NMN treatment experienced longer walking distances, improved blood biological age, and better overall health assessments compared to the placebo group[7].

NMN Supplementation as an Anti-Aging Strategy

The encouraging results from these human trials underscore the potential of NMN supplementation as an effective approach to fight aging and foster healthy aging processes. NMN has been shown to increase NAD+ levels, thereby improving mitochondrial function and boosting cellular energy production[8]. By restoring NAD+ levels, NMN supplementation may help preserve youthful cellular function, aid DNA repair, and minimize the effects of age-related decline.

Conclusion

Understanding the basic science behind aging and the role of NAD+ levels has provided valuable insights into potential interventions to promote healthy aging. Human trials investigating NMN supplementation have shown promising results in improving cardiovascular fitness, increasing blood NAD+ levels, and enhancing physical performance. These findings suggest that NMN supplementation holds great potential as an anti-aging strategy. While further research is needed, the safety and efficacy of NMN supplementation make it an intriguing option for individuals looking to support their aging process.

Varalife®’s longevity capsule, VaraSpan® contains NMN, and is scientifically backed and manufactured only in GMP certified facilities. We remain committed to supporting your journey toward a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life.

References:

1. Soma, M., Lalam, S.K. The role of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) in anti-aging, longevity, and its potential for treating chronic conditions. Mol Biol Rep 49, 9737–9748 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-022-07459-1
2. Cui H, Kong Y, Zhang H (2012) Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and aging. J Signal Transduct 2012:646354. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/646354
3. Leadsham JE, Sanders G, Giannaki S, Bastow EL, Hutton R, Naeimi WR, Breitenbach M, Gourlay CW (2013) Loss of cytochrome c oxidase promotes RAS-dependent ROS production from the ER resident NADPH oxidase, Yno1p, in yeast. Cell Metab 18(2):279–286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2013.07.005
4. Nicolson GL (2014) Mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic disease: treatment with natural supplements. Integr Med (Encinitas) 13(4):35–43
5. Liao B, Zhao Y, Wang D, Zhang X, Hao X, Hu M. Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 Jul 8;18(1):54. doi: 10.1186/s12970–021–00442–4. PMID: 34238308; PMCID: PMC8265078.
6. Kimura S, Ichikawa M, Sugawara S, et al. (September 05, 2022) Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Is Safely Metabolized and Significantly Reduces Blood Triglyceride Levels in Healthy Individuals. Cureus 14(9): e28812. DOI 10.7759/cureus.28812
7. Yi, L., Maier, A.B., Tao, R. et al. The efficacy and safety of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) supplementation in healthy middle-aged adults: a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, dose-dependent clinical trial. GeroScience 45, 29–43 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11357-022-00705-1
8. Fang EF, Hou Y, Lautrup S, Jensen MB, Yang B, SenGupta T, Caponio D, Khezri R, Demarest TG, Aman Y, Figueroa D, Morevati M, Lee HJ, Kato H, Kassahun H, Lee JH, Filippelli D, Okur MN, Mangerich A, Croteau DL, Maezawa Y, Lyssiotis CA, Tao J, Yokote K, Rusten TE, Mattson MP, Jasper H, Nilsen H, Bohr VA (2019) NAD+ augmentation restores mitophagy and limits accelerated aging in Werner syndrome. Nat Commun 10(1):5284. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-019-13172-8