NAD vs NMN: Which is Better?

NAD+ and NMN are two essential molecules found in every cell of the human body. They play important roles in various biological processes. In recent years, NAD+ and NMN have attracted considerable attention as potential anti-aging supplements for overall health and longevity. This article will explore the differences between NAD+ and NMN in terms of their mechanism of action, potential benefits, and considerations for choosing the right supplement for you. And also answer the question NAD vs NMN, which is better?

What Is NAD+? What Are NAD functions In The Body?

NAD+ or Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide is a coenzyme required for energy production through cellular respiration. Simply put, it acts as a hydrogen acceptor in the electron transport chain, helping to convert nutrients into ATP. Additionally, NAD+ plays an important role in DNA repair, cell signaling, and other essential biological processes in the body [1].

Functions of NAD in the human body:

• Energy production: NAD+ is a key player in the electron transport chain, which produces ATP. It is involved in converting energy from food into ATP through oxidation in cells. NAD+ acts as an intermediary in this conversion, helping the body to have a healthier metabolism [1].
• DNA repair: NAD+ is involved in the repair of DNA damage, which can help prevent aging, increase blood circulation, and affect overall human longevity [2].
• Protects cells from oxidative stress: NAD+ plays a role in protecting cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, helping to maintain cell membrane integrity and cell function [3].

How Does NAD+ Work?

In the human body, NAD+ works by accepting electrons from other molecules, becoming NADH. NADH then donates these electrons to the electron transport chain, which ultimately leads to the production of ATP. NAD+ levels naturally decline as people age. This means that as we age, NAD+ levels decrease, causing various health problems [1].

What are NAD+ Supplements Benefits?

NAD+ is an important compound that plays a role in many biological processes in the human body. From energy production and DNA repair to maintaining resistance. Therefore, daily NAD+ supplementation is an effective way to protect the body for a healthier life. Here are some benefits of supplementing NAD+ for the body:

Increased Muscle Function

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell. NAD+ is one of the keys to maintaining healthy mitochondrial function and providing a steady source of energy.

Studies done on mice show that mice with enhanced NAD+ are leaner, stronger, and run faster, which means they have higher physical abilities than those without enhanced NAD+ [4].

Improve Cardiovascular Function

High blood pressure causes the heart to swell and block arteries, leading to strokes. Increasing NAD+ in the body helps protect and improve heart function. Studies show that increasing NAD+ helps prevent ischemic damage in mice, protecting them from abnormal enlargement of the heart [2].

Keep Sirtuins Running

Sirtuins are like the bodyguards of the genome, helping to protect internal organs against disease and degeneration. NAD+ is the fuel that helps Sirtuins function. Research shows that increasing NAD+ helps activate Sirtuins and prolong lifespan in mice, worms, and yeast [3].

What Is NMN?

NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, is a precursor molecule that can be converted to NAD+ in the body. NMN is found in a variety of foods, including avocados, broccoli, and edamame. NMN supplements are becoming increasingly popular as a potential way to boost NAD+ levels in the body and improve overall human health [5].

How Does NMN Work? What are NMN functions in the body?

NMN is absorbed in the intestine and enters the bloodstream. Once inside cells, it is converted to NAD+ by an enzyme called Nicotinamide Phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT). This process helps replenish NAD+ levels, which can decrease with age and certain health conditions [5].

Functions of NMN in the human body:

• NAD+ Synthesis: NMN is a direct precursor of NAD+, helping to maintain adequate levels of this essential molecule. This, in turn, creates energy for a healthier body.
• Mitochondrial function: NMN may support mitochondrial function, which is important for energy production and cellular health.
• DNA repair: NMN may play a similar role in DNA repair as NAD+, helping to protect cells from damage and other diseases.

What are NMN Supplements Benefits?

The health benefits of NMN supplementation are demonstrated through the following proven effects:

Anti-aging

When NMN is absorbed into the body, it activates Sirtuin, similar to NAD+, which helps rejuvenate the skin and maintain beauty and suppleness every day. Therefore, products that support the protection of NMN function are prioritized and considered a panacea for health and beauty [6].

Supports Brain Function

Adding NMN to your daily diet helps increase blood circulation to the brain. This helps improve brain health and increase concentration and memory.

In addition, thanks to its ability to detect and repair DNA, NMN also has the effect of promoting rapid blood vessel regeneration, improving the working process of nerve neurons, maintaining a clear state of mind, and is an extremely effective active ingredient in preventing stroke [5].

Support Treatment Of Diabetes

Researchers have shown that increasing NAD+ by supplementing with NMN can contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, a hormone that plays an important role in lowering blood sugar.

On the other hand, NMN also helps reduce the risk of fat storage in the body and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Thereby helping to prevent and support the treatment of type II diabetes more effectively [7].

What are the Similarities between NMN and NAD?

From the above analysis, it is easy to see that both NAD+ and NMN are essential for biological processes in the body, including energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. Both molecules are involved in the aging process and have potential anti-aging and rejuvenating benefits.

NAD vs NMN: What's Differences?

The biggest difference between NAD+ and NMN is their structure. NAD+ is the larger, more complex molecule of NMN. Meanwhile, NMN is the smaller, simpler precursor to NAD+. Additionally, NAD+ is found in every cell of the body. NMN, on the other hand, is found primarily in the intestines and liver. The difference between NAD and NMN can be summarized simply in the table below:

NAD vs NMN: Which is Better?

The answer to whether NAD+ or NMN is better depends on individual factors such as your current health status, specific health goals, and underlying medical conditions. Therefore, consult a healthcare professional for the correct and safe dosage for your health.

NMN vs NAD: Which One Should You Choose?

As well as the question of which is better, NAD vs NMN. Choosing between NMN vs NAD to supplement your body depends on each person's needs, goals, and medical history. We can only advise that NAD is suitable for those who want to improve athletic performance and increase energy metabolism. Meanwhile, NMN is best recommended for those who want to fight aging and enhance mitochondrial function.

It is important to remember that, whether it is NAD or NMN, the maximum recommended dose for supplementation is 500mg per day. Consult your doctor to determine the correct dosage for you.

Can You Combine NMN and NAD Supplements?

The short answer is yes. Currently, NMN and NAD combination supplements are formulated using a sublingual delivery method to boost the body's NAD+ pool. This way, the purified NAD+ formed is immediately absorbed to spike NAD+ levels in the short term. At the same time, NMN enters the systemic circulation to continuously increase NAD+ over a long period of time. This combination provides the perfect combination of NAD+ and NMN.

How to Store NAD+ and NMN Supplements

Because they are sensitive to temperature, NAD+ and NMN supplements should be stored in a cool environment. The ideal temperature range is between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius (39.2 and 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit), which can maintain potency at around 90-95%. NAD+ and NMN supplements on the market today are also kept in a cold chain when they reach the consumer to ensure maximum potency.

How To Naturally Maintain Healthy NAD+ Levels in the Body

Besides using NAD+ and NMN supplements available today, we can also supplement healthy natural NAD+ in the body through the following forms:

• Diet and exercise: A healthy diet combined with light exercise can stimulate NAD+ production. Aerobic and resistance exercises can help increase the enzyme that synthesizes NAD+ in the body, especially in the muscles.
• Consume cow'smilk, fish, mushrooms, green vegetables, and whole grains: These are foods that boost NAD+ and have been shown to improve overall human health.
• You can combine a vegetarian diet with foods rich in fiber: This will increase the metabolism of the intestinal microflora, maintaining healthy levels of NAD+ in cells.

Conclusion

Hopefully, the above article has clarified information related to NAD + and NMN. From the benefits and how they work in the human body to the similarities and differences between NAD + vs NMN. Hopefully, you have the answer to the question of which is better, NAD + vs NMN, and how to supplement it properly for your body. Don't forget to consult your doctor before starting to supplement any food to ensure your health.