The Research Behind NMN
NMN is a precursor to NAD+ - a molecule involved in various cellular processes, including the activation of sirtuins, which are being studied for their role in cellular maintenance and stress response.
What is Nicotinaminde Mononucliotide (NMN)
NMN is a naturally occurring molecule made from ribose and nicotinamide (a form of Vitamin B3). It acts as a direct precursor to NAD+ - a coenzyme found in all living cells, involved in energy metabolism and cellular processes.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Any references to the relationship between NMN and NAD+ are made in the context of publicly available third-party studies, and we do not present these as authorised health claims under Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.
Common Questions
How Does NMN Work?
Once ingested, NMN is absorbed into the bloodstream and taken up by cells through a transporter protein known as SLC12A8.
Inside the cell, NMN is converted into NAD+ - a molecule involved in various biological processes, including energy metabolism.
This pathway was identified in a 2019 study published in Nature Metabolism by Dr. Shin-ichiro Imai’s team, which challenged earlier assumptions that NMN must first convert to NR before being utilised by the body.
Research continues into how NMN uptake varies across different tissues and what role NAD+ may play in supporting overall cellular health.
How Much Should You Take?
Element 5 NMN provides 500 mg per capsule, designed to be taken once daily in the morning with water.
Scientific studies have explored a range of NMN dosages in human trials. For example, research published in Frontiers in Nutrition observed increased NAD+ levels after 12 weeks of daily supplementation with 250 mg.
Other studies have evaluated intakes between 300 mg and 900 mg.
While results vary, this growing body of research is helping to inform ongoing interest in how NMN may support NAD+ metabolism in humans.
Note: Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement.
What Does NAD+ Do?
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a key role in cellular processes such as energy metabolism and is involved in important biological pathways like sirtuin activation.
Scientists continue to study NAD+ for its role in maintaining healthy cellular function, especially as levels are known to decline with age.
Why Not Take NAD+ Directly?
The NAD⁺ molecule is large and does not efficiently cross cell membranes. NMN, a precursor to NAD⁺, is taken up by cells through specific transporters and then converted into NAD⁺ inside the cell.
Analogy:
Imagine NAD+ as a fully assembled sofa - it won’t fit through the door. NMN acts as the smaller pieces, easily carried into the house and reassembled into NAD+ where it’s needed.
Why is NAD+ So Important?
NAD+ is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a central role in cellular energy metabolism and is involved in processes related to cellular maintenance and stress response.
Research is ongoing into how NAD+ interacts with proteins like sirtuins, which are being studied for their role in healthy aging and cell regulation. Scientists are particularly interested in how NAD+ levels change over time and their potential relationship with cellular health.
Groundbreaking Human Clinical Trials
Effect of Oral Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide on Clinical Parameters and Nicotinamide Metabolite Levels in Healthy Japanese Men
Effect of Oral Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide on Clinical Parameters and Nicotinamide Metabolite Levels in Healthy Japanese Men.
Junichiro Irie, Emi Inagaki, Masataka Fujita, Hideaki Nakaya, Masanori Mitsuishi, et al.
Published: 2020.
Key Findings:
- Daily supplementation with NMN (250 mg) significantly increased NAD+ metabolite levels in the blood.
- No adverse effects were observed.
Standout: This study confirmed NMN’s safety and its ability to elevate NAD+ levels in humans without side effects.
Learning: NMN supplementation is safe and effective for increasing NAD+ metabolites over a short duration.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Increases Muscle Insulin Sensitivity in Prediabetic Women
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Increases Muscle Insulin Sensitivity in Prediabetic Women.
Matthew J. Yoshino, Jun Yoshino, Brian D. Kayser, et al.
Published: 2021.
Key Findings:
- NMN supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscles.
- Significant benefits were observed in older women at risk of metabolic disorders.
Standout: NMN enhances muscle function and insulin sensitivity, particularly beneficial for pre-diabetic and older individuals.
Learning: NMN may support metabolic health and act as a preventative measure for insulin resistance.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Supplementation Enhances Aerobic Capacity in Amateur Runners
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Supplementation Enhances Aerobic Capacity in Amateur Runners: A Randomized, Double-Blind Study.
B. Liao, Y. Zhao, D. Wang, X. Zhang, X. Hao.x
Published: 2021.
Key Findings:
- Participants experienced improved oxygen utilisation and endurance after taking NMN for six weeks.
- Enhanced aerobic performance, with no reported side effects.
Standout: NMN boosts endurance and physical performance in healthy individuals.
Learning: NMN has potential as a performance-enhancing supplement for athletes.
The Efficacy and Safety of β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) Supplementation in Healthy Middle-Aged Adults
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.
Yi Lin, et al.
Published: 2023.
Key Findings:
- Dose-dependent increases in NAD+ levels were observed, with higher doses producing greater effects.
- Improvements in energy levels and self-reported well-being were noted after 60 days.
Standout: Higher NMN dosages (600–900 mg/day) correlated with better NAD+ increases and perceived health benefits.
Learning: Larger doses of NMN may yield more pronounced benefits for energy and vitality.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) Intake Increases Plasma NMN and NAD+ Levels Without Causing Adverse Effects
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) Intake Increases Plasma NMN and NAD+ Levels Without Causing Adverse Effects in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.
Haruka Yamamoto, et al.
Published: 2023.
Key Findings:
- NMN supplementation elevated plasma NMN and NAD+ levels significantly after regular intake.
- No adverse effects were reported, even with daily dosing.
Standout: Reinforced NMN’s safety and its efficacy in elevating NAD+ levels in the bloodstream.
Learning: NMN is a safe and practical strategy for increasing NAD+ levels consistently.
The Impacts of Short-Term NMN Supplementation on Serum Metabolism, Fecal Microbiota, and Telomere Length in Pre-Aging Phase
The Impacts of Short-Term NMN Supplementation on Serum Metabolism, Fecal Microbiota, and Telomere Length in Pre-Aging Phase.
Kai-Min Niu, Tongtong Bao, Lumin Gao, Meng Ru, Yumeng Li, Liang Jiang, Changming Ye, Shujin Wang, Xin Wu.
Published: November 2021
Key Findings:
- NMN supplementation enhanced nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, vital for NAD+ production.
- It significantly improved gut microbiota composition, increasing beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia.
- Telomere length in blood cells was elongated, indicating potential anti-aging effects.
Standout: NMN supplementation positively impacts metabolism, gut health, and cellular longevity, showing potential as a multi-faceted anti-aging solution.
Learning: NMN may serve as a practical supplement to support NAD+ biosynthesis, improve gut health, and combat aging by preserving telomere integrity.
Recommended Reading
- Lifespan: Why We Age – And Why We Don’t Have To by Dr David Sinclair
- Super Human: The Bulletproof Plan to Age Backward and Maybe Even Live Forever by Dave Asprey
- Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity by Dr Peter Attia
- The Telomere Effect by Dr Elissa Epel
- How Not to Age by Dr Michael Greger
Co-Founder Jonny Bradley Shares His Protocol
In a UK first, Element 5™ co-founder Jonny Bradley shares his exact healthcare protocols giving a deep look into his life, habits and routines.
If you're passionate about biohacking and health you can follow along for free!
Let customers speak for us
from 505 reviewsI had been trying a different brand and they just were not working out. I've used the whole bottle and noticed a marked improvement in energy levels, skin and hair. Already bought more.
Great products helps me sleep better so far body feels better only on second month so so good so far Performance: Great for sleep and energy
Arrived in good time. Very honest and informative when i messaged to ask some questions before i swapped over from (another brand).. i shall report back in a couple of months with my findings But 5 star for service at least at the moment. Kind regards
Increased energy so far, after just 2 weeks use. Just ordered my second pack.
Omg where have these been all my mid life. Feel so much better since taking these great energy boost
This is the only product that I’ve felt made a difference. Definitely more energy and sleeping better! Get more from my workouts
I waited over a month so I could give honest f/back.I suffer with ME/CFS so need a supplement to help energy levels and muscle aches.Tried element 5 NMN and honestly so impressed! Waking up much easier/more alert in the morning, energy is fab/aches have eased.Ordered more and will keep ordering 👍
I have been taking other NmN from different company's but I switched and I am glad I did as I've felt these more than the others great product plus I love the fact I am getting a 60 day supple not a 30 day supple will be ordering again thank u so so much love &light to u..
I am not sure if it a placebo effect as i have only been taking 1 week, but i have noticed subtle changes in energy. I have given 5 stars for the advertising and delivery. Ask me again in 2 months after the bottle is finished
I was intrigued to try these as I’d never heard of this supplements before. They arrived quickly and have been taking for a week. I will definitely be re ordering to get the long term benefits.
The delivery was quick and the product looks high-quality and trustworthy. It’s still early, but I’m excited to see the long-term results.
The product is very good - I have researched a lot before I bought this - very happy with this
Element 5™ NMN - Nicotinamide Mononucleotide
60 x 500mg Capsules Per Bottle
