NMN Side Effects: A Comprehensive Review Of NMN Pros And Cons (Including Dosage, Uses, Benefits, Purity And More)
NMN supplement side effects have come into play with NMN’s rise in popularity as an anti-aging supplement, but is it bad news or good news?
NMN is a molecule that has gained momentum for its potential anti-aging support, along with numerous other health benefits.
But just as with any supplement, it is important to consider potential side effects and risks before adding NMN to your longevity protocol.
Let’s dive in…
[This information is not intended as medical advice, please read our disclaimer.]
What Is NMN?
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), an essential compound found in every cell within the human body.
NAD+ plays an essential role in various cellular processes such as energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, DNA repair and gene expression.
As we age, NMN levels naturally decline, which can potentially lead to age-related conditions.
Supplementing with NMN has, therefore, become increasingly popular to help maintain and improve overall health and support anti-aging.
Get A Check-Up
Since NMN is a relatively new supplement, more research needs to be conducted to fully understand all of its potential side effects and long-term effects.
While NMN and aging gracefully appear to go hand in hand, before you jump in, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and assess the potential benefits and risks.
Carefully evaluating the quality and reputation of the source of the NMN is also an important factor in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of taking it.
Possible Side Effects of NMN Supplements
One reported side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort, which may manifest in short term symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and nausea.
These symptoms are often mild and temporary and can frequently be alleviated by taking the supplement with food or reducing the dosage.
In many studies, NMN has been found to be generally safe, with no major side effects reported in humans.
However, it's important to note that most NMN supplement research has been conducted on animals, and human trials are still in their early stages.
As such, the findings may not always translate directly to humans, and further investigation is needed to understand any potential risk of NMN.
Stay Within Recommended Guidelines
When taking NMN, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage guidelines as excessive intake may lead to potential adverse effects.
High doses of nicotinamide, a compound NMN is related to, have been shown to cause some side effects.
These may include flushing, headaches, dizziness, and skin rashes in some cases.
While these effects have not been directly linked to NMN supplementation, it's important to be cautious and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
While NMN appears to be generally well-tolerated, further research is needed to establish its safety profile and identify any possible side effects.
Severe Side Effects of NMN
The NMN anti-aging movement has involved countless research studies to determine its potential longevity and health benefits.
As with most supplements, high doses of NMN can potentially lead to some adverse effects.
According to a study, the primary concern is the possible overproduction of NAD+, which might result in imbalances in cellular processes and pathways.
It's important to remember that while NMN is a naturally occurring compound in the body, excessive supplementation may cause unintended consequences.
People with a history of allergies or sensitivities to B-vitamins might experience adverse reactions to NMN supplementation.
In such cases, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before deciding to take NMN supplements.
It is also crucial to consider the potential for drug interactions, especially for individuals on medications for chronic conditions.
Proper dosage, awareness of individual sensitivities, and consulting with your healthcare professional can help minimize the risk of adverse effects associated with NMN supplementation.
NMN Impact on Liver Function
One possible concern is the elevation of liver enzymes, which could be an indication of liver damage or inflammation.
According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, high-dose nicotinamide, which is related to NMN, may have adverse effects on liver function.
The exact relationship between NMN and liver enzyme elevation specifically needs further research though.
One study on mice showed that NMN supplementation might actually limit liver damage caused by chronic alcohol consumption.
In this study, researchers found that NMN had a protective effect on the liver in mice with early-stage chronic alcohol consumption.
This suggests that NMN may have potential benefits on liver function, but it's vital to keep in mind that results obtained from animal studies may not directly translate to humans.
Further research is needed to determine whether or not NMN has a significant impact on liver function, particularly concerning elevated liver enzymes.
If you have pre-existing liver conditions or concerns, check with your Doctor before adding NMN to your daily health regime.
NMN and Blood Sugar Levels
One potential side effect of NMN supplementation is the risk of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.
NMN may improve insulin sensitivity, which can affect glucose metabolism in the body.
This can lead to a temporary drop in blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with a history of diabetes or those on medications that lower blood sugar.
For this reason, it is essential to monitor blood sugar levels closely if using NMN, particularly for those with diabetes or a history of low blood sugar.
A study conducted on the effects of NMN intake showed time-dependent changes in postprandial serum insulin and blood glucose levels after taking NMN orally for 12 weeks.
While these results highlight the potential benefits of NMN for improving insulin sensitivity, it also underscores the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels and discussing supplementation with a healthcare professional.
To minimize the risk of hypoglycemia, it is recommended to start with a low dose of NMN and gradually increase it as tolerated, while monitoring blood sugar levels and symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Effects on Kidney Health
NMN is known to play a vital role in maintaining cellular health.
Research has indicated that increased NMN levels could support kidney health by improving major organ function.
However, when considering the potential side effects of high-dose NMN supplementation, possible impacts on kidney function must be considered.
In some cases, high-dose supplementation may lead to decreased kidney function due to changes in the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+).
NAD+ is essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis and supporting the activity of enzymes critical to health and longevity.
Abundant research in animals and limited studies in humans have shown that correcting abnormally low NAD+ levels may improve kidney health.
The potential risks of increasing NMN levels in individuals with kidney disease remain uncertain, as adverse effects may arise due to increased metabolic demands and imbalances in cellular responses.
Interactions With Other Medications
It is essential to consider possible interactions between NMN and other medications, as combining certain substances may lead to adverse effects.
While research on NMN is still in its early stages, some potential interactions can be inferred based on its similarities to other forms of vitamin B3, like niacin and nicotinamide riboside.
Patients taking anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin, should exercise caution when using NMN supplements, as vitamin B3 may potentially interact with these drugs.
The combination could lead to an increased risk of bleeding, so it's crucial for individuals on blood-thinners to consult their healthcare providers before adding NMN to their routine.
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
Another potential interaction may occur between NMN and medications used to lower cholesterol, such as statins.
Some research suggests that high doses of niacin, a related compound, may interfere with the effectiveness of statins.
While definitive evidence on NMN's interaction with statins is limited, it's essential to discuss this possibility with a healthcare professional before starting or modifying any treatment plan.
Diabetic Medication
Individuals with diabetes should be cautious when combining NMN with medications to control blood sugar levels.
As mentioned above, NMN has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which might lead to changes in the effectiveness of anti-diabetic medications.
Close monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider are necessary to ensure proper blood sugar control and prevent unintended interactions.
In summary, potential interactions between NMN and other medications require careful consideration.
It is vital to consult a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting any treatment plan involving NMN supplements.
This will help minimize potential adverse effects and ensure the safest and most effective use of all medications involved.
Long-Term Effects of NMN Use
As NMN is relatively new to the market, the possible long-term effects of NMN use have yet to be fully understood.
Weight Management
It has been observed that NMN can successfully suppress age-associated body weight gain, improve insulin sensitivity, enhance energy metabolism, and promote physical activity without any obvious toxicity or deleterious effects in certain studies.
While these results are promising, it is important to note that the long-term safety of NMN supplementation still requires further investigation.
Nicotinamide
On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential adverse effects of high-dose nicotinamide, which might be associated with life-long use of NMN.
Some of the reported adverse effects, such as carcinogenesis, Parkinson's disease, and Type 2 diabetes, could be irreversible.
However, it should be noted that these concerns apply to high-dose Nicotinamide rather than NMN specifically, and additional research is needed to determine whether these potential risks apply to NMN supplementation as well.
Researchers, healthcare providers, and individuals interested in using NMN for its health benefits should approach it with caution and continue to monitor emerging research in this area.
NMN Recommended Dosage: How Much Should You Take?
According to a study published on PubMed, an NMN dosage for humans that has been shown as safe and well tolerated is up to 900mg per day.
The maximum NMN daily dosage is recommended to be no more than 1200mg, where in a study of amateur runners, aerobic benefits of supplementing with NMN were highest at a dosage of 1200mg.
When implementing any new supplement into your health plan, start with a lower dose and work your way up to ensure safety and to get the maximum benefit that the supplement offers.
With more studies emerging about NMN and peak performance, it’s an exciting time for those seeking to achieve optimum performance.
NMN Supplements Benefits
NMN has come to the forefront of the topic of ‘youthing’ as it has shown promising results in studies.
NMN research has shown that NMN:
- Suppressed age-associated weight gain
- Enhanced energy metabolism and physical activity
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Improved eye function
- Improved mitochondrial metabolism
- Prevented age-linked changes in gene expression.
One of the top NMN health benefits is that it’s a precursor to NAD.
NAD helps cells regulate crucial functions like DNA repair, gene expression, energy metabolism and cell stress responses.
Therefore, without adequate NMN, NAD levels are also reduced, affecting cellular function.
Unfortunately, NMN levels decline with age and consequently, NAD levels decline too.
How NMN Is Made
The 3 common ways NMN is manufactured are:
1) Chemical Synthesis – where toxic solvents are used in the manufacturing process and can results in impurities and byproducts being retained in the final product.
2) Enzymatic Synthesis - involves the linking together of amino acids in correct sequence, resulting in a high-purity product (and environmentally friendly).
3) Fermented Biosynthesis – through microbial fermentation NMN is produced that is high-purity, but low yield.
AlphaCell Labs NMN is produced using Enzymatic Synthesis, creating a stable and 99.5% pure NMN.
View the third party testing certificate here.
The enzymatic synthesis is begun from a cloned, food-grade yeast, ‘Kluyveromyces Marxianus’, which is listed as “generally considered as safe” by the FDA and which the European Food Safety Authority lists as “qualified presumption of safety”.
Biggest Safety Concern
When assessing various NMN products and manufacturers, beware of:
- Fake NMN manufacturers
- Dangerous additives
- No NMN content
- Chemicals used in manufacturing process
Which NMN Products Are Safest?
As with any new supplement there’s always going to be some unscrupulous operators who try to take advantage of consumers by selling products that aren’t quite what they say they are.
Some manufacturers may use fillers in their supplement, reduce the amount of NMN and even include harmful substances, whether deliberate or by accident.
This is why it’s important to check the ingredients as well as decide on the best form to take NMN.
Your options include:
Exposed Powder – An exposed NMN powder supplement in a bucket or canister is perhaps one of the worst ways to buy NMN because the powder is exposed to oxygen each time the lid is opened. This accelerates the oxidation process, thereby potentially affecting the quality and effectiveness of the NMN.
Tablet/Pill – NMN tablets and/or pills are a convenient option but may have undesirable additives to bind the tablet together, so double-check the ingredients.
Liposomal – to insert the NMN into small, fat-like particles, intense processing is required which may impact the quality of the NMN and its effectiveness.
Drops (Liquid/Sublingual) – similar to liposomal, intense processing is required to product liquid NMN which may affect its quality, uptake and effectiveness.
Gummies & Lozenges – While these are a more novel option, they may also come with toxic fillers, colors, additives and flavorings to bind the gummy or lozenge together and make it taste good.
Powder In Capsule – NMN capsules are a great and convenient option as the powder is protected from the air by the capsule, thereby retaining its potency and potential benefits.
Taking a lab tested and certified high-purity NMN is your safest choice.
Also, make sure it’s been manufactured in a GMP (Good Manufacturing Practise) facility to know that manufacturing regulations have been adhered to in the creation of the NMN you’re considering taking.
High purity NMN powder benefits you in many ways starting with the avoidance of additives through to retaining its quality and effectiveness with encapsulation.
Encapsulation
A stabilized form of NMN is powder in capsules, is known as encapsulation.
This encapsulation of the NMN powder stabilizes it, thereby retaining the quality and potency.
Powder Side Effects
No known NMN powder side effects have been identified and should not be a concern providing you stay under the maximum daily dosage recommendation of 1200mg.
What Do NMN Supplement Reviews Reveal About Its Effectiveness?
NMN supplement results can be seen posted across the web on blogs, reddit, social media and other websites, all varying in their personal experiences.
And this is key, because the effects you feel will be influenced by your genetics and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
NMN results will always vary from person to person, just like any other supplement.
High-Dosages
It’s critical to understand the potential side effects of NMN before considering supplementation.
High-dose Nicotinamide (NAM), a related molecule to NMN, has been observed to have possible adverse effects.
Some of these effects include protection of neurons and vascular cells from ischemic reperfusion.
Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that the studies primarily focus on Nicotinamide rather than NMN, and thus, further research is needed to determine if these side effects apply to the NMN itself.
Recent clinical studies on NMN have shown its impact on exercise capacity, sleep, and fatigue, providing insight into safety and dosing strategies.
However, it is important for researchers to continue investigating the potential side effects and long-term consequences of NMN to provide a comprehensive understanding to the public.
In the meantime, those considering NMN should consult with their healthcare provider to determine whether it is appropriate for their individual needs and potential risks.
Keeping abreast of the latest research and understanding the potential benefits, as well as side effects, is crucial for making an informed decision about NMN.
FAQs
Is NMN a scam?
NMN has been and continues to be researched by top scientific organizations, biotechnology companies and universities from Harvard to Washington University.
NMN holds promise for possible anti-aging support thanks to its effect on NAD levels in the body, which is essential for proper cell function.
Scam NMN manufacturers and retailers will try to take advantage of consumers seeking longevity solutions, which it’s why it’s important to research both the NMN you’re considering buying as well as researching the manufacturer.
Are there any negative reactions to NMN supplements?
NMN supplements are generally considered safe for most people. However, as with any supplement, individual responses can vary.
Some users may experience mild side effects such as stomach discomfort, nausea, or headaches.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
What are possible side effects of taking NMN?
Some side effects associated with NMN supplementation include initial stomach discomfort, nausea, and headaches.
Most of these side effects are mild and may diminish as your body adjusts to the supplement.
Is NMN safe for long-term use?
The long-term safety of NMN supplementation has not been well-established through clinical trials.
While some studies indicate potential benefits for a variety of health conditions, further research is necessary to determine its safety and effectiveness over longer periods of time.
Is there an NMN and cancer link?
In terms of NMN side effects and cancer, there is currently no definitive evidence linking NMN to an increased risk of cancer.
However, research on NMN's effects on cancer is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to provide a clear understanding of any potential relationship.
Are there any interactions between NMN and medications?
No known interactions have been reported between NMN supplements and medications.
However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you're taking medications or have any pre-existing medical conditions.
Can NMN cause any liver or kidney issues?
Limited studies have been conducted on NMN supplementation in relation to liver and kidney health.
Some research indicates potential benefits for liver function, but more studies are needed to draw any definitive conclusions about the effects of NMN on liver or kidney health.
Does NMN consumption lead to any skin reactions?
No specific skin reactions have been reported as a result of NMN supplementation.
As with any new supplement, it's possible that individual sensitivities may lead to skin reactions in some users.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, and discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions.
What are the top NMN foods to eat?
The best NMN food sources include broccoli, avocado, tomato, edamame (soybeans), cabbage and cucumber.
Others containing trace amounts of NMN include beef, mushrooms and shrimp.
These NMN-friendly foods are a great addition to a healthy diet or health regime.
Is the NMN science legit?
When top biotech companies, universities and research centers worldwide are conducting research on NMN’s effects on cellular health and reversing aging, the science should be considered credible.
It’s still important to research supplements and their manufacturers if you’re considering adding NMN to your longevity regime.
Are there any NMN and resveratrol side effects when taken together?
A study by Macau University Of Science And Technology showed that compared to NMN by itself, the combination of NMN and resveratrol increased NAD+ in the heart by almost 1.6 times and in skeletal muscles by 1.7 times.
Taken together, NMN and resveratrol results will vary from person to person, but research studies provide a guide as to the potential benefits and effects of combining NMN and resveratrol.
Why were NMN supplements banned in the USA?
The FDA’s (Federal Drug Administration) ban on the sale of NMN is only effective within the USA, and not any other countries.
It’s still possible for consumers in the United States to purchase NMN from websites within or outside of the US for their own personal use.
The reason for this ban in the USA is because the FDA has now authorized NMN to be investigated as a new drug.
How long for NMN to take effect?
NMN can take effect differently for everyone as we all have our own unique genetic makeup.
If you’re wondering how long it takes to feel ‘limitless’, positive NMN effects could be felt within minutes, which may include increased feelings of alertness and heightened energy, although this will vary from person to person.
Additional effects may take hours, days, weeks or months, as studies of various durations have indicated.
How does NMN influence sirtuins?
The NMN/Sirtuin relationship is a crucial one for overall health and wellbeing.
NMN is a precursor to NAD, and NAD and sirtuins work hand-in-hand for cell health and longevity.
Boosting NAD levels by taking NMN, you’re boosting or activating sirtuins at a much greater level.
This video by NMN expert David Sinclair reveals everything you need to know…
Which brand offers the best NMN supplement?
AlphaCell Labs offers one of the best NMN supplements due to its 99% purity level and the fact it’s Australian-made and manufactured in a GMP facility.
Get NMN direct from the manufacturer by purchasing AlphaCell, a manufacturer and retailer of high-purity NMN.
Wrapping Up
Understanding these potential side effects can help individuals make informed decisions and ensure that they are responsibly incorporating NMN into their daily routine.
NMN benefits and side effects need to be weighed up to decide if you should take NMN as part of your longevity routine.
NMN treatment to support an anti-aging protocol could be the answer you’re looking for if the science is correct.
While some NMN studies suggest that it’s generally safe and well-tolerated, it’s important to stay within recommended dosage guidelines.
NMN and lifespan are still being researched, as well as its link to healthspan; the length of time an individual is in good health during their lifetime.
If you’d like to try NMN for yourself to experience the potential benefits, try AlphaCell Labs NMN which is preservative free, non-GMO, dye free, sugar free; and contains no additives, no fillers, no excipients and no magnesium stearate or silica.
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