Longevity expert David Sinclair has focused most of his career on nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN).
Five years ago, his book Lifespan brought widespread attention to this powerful anti-aging supplement.
The molecule promises to improve cellular health and slow the biological aging process.
By restoring proper energy balance throughout the body, you stay younger.
You naturally get trace quantities through diet and lifestyle, but only supplements cause robust health benefits. Unfortunately, some NMN brands do more harm than good.
In this review, we will cover everything you need to know about NMN. The best dose, the science-backed benefits, potential side effects, and how to choose the best NMN supplement for your unique lifestyle.
This was one of the internet’s first NMN guides, and I constantly update it as new products/research emerge.
In a hurry?
By the end, you know if you should take a nicotinamide mononucleotide supplement and which is right for you.
The Best NMN Supplements, Products & Brands for Anti-Aging
As mentioned below, products with labels that claim to contain “NMN” are not all equal. This list, however, is a roundup of all the very best brands.
Your ideal NMN product depends on your goals and budget:
- Liposomal formulations give you maximum absorption (as described later) and are best for most people
- Intranasal spray is best for those looking to combat neurodegeneration and boost cognitive energy (and mitochondrial health)
- Normal powder used sublingually is the best value for budget-conscious folks
Before we get started…
Am I missing a product? Be sure to check the comments below where we’re having an ongoing discussion about other and new brands.
Best Overall: Ultra Health Liposomal NMN
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Meets highest standards for safety and efficacy
Features: Max bioavailability, No additives
UltraHealth specializes in the highest quality, pharmaceutical-grade longevity products. Their line of powders and capsules regularly rank among the highest-quality NAD+ products. While best known for their Nicotinamide Riboside, they offer two different NMN products which are also top choices.
One is Ultra Health’s Liposomal NMN. From many conversations with their CTO, Bret Lee, I’ve determined that this is quite possibly the best quality liposomal NMN available.
Their proprietary lipid polymer coating helps capsules bypass the harsh environment of stomach acid and get efficiently absorbed. Since it is a high-quality liposome, the benefits last a long time.
Plus, Ultra Health’s unique manufacturing process lets them completely avoid additives or excipients.
If you’re looking for a clean, best-absorbing, and relatively budget-friendly NMN capsule for its price, definitely consider Ultra Health Liposomal NMN.
Use the exclusive UltraHealth code NC15 for 15% off
Best Targeted Delivery: Ultra Health PUR™ 60B Pharmaceutical-Grade
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Purity
Features: No excipients or additives, 3-stage proprietary synthesis
Ultra Health’s PUR NMN line nicely features both unparalleled purity as well as decent price. This product comes in a pharmaceutical-grade form called PUR NMN.
PUR NMN specifically undergoes a three-stage synthesis process for maximum bioavailability. Aside from the one mentioned above, it’s the only 100% pure NMN product on the market. Their complete CoA and HPLC purity datasheet is posted on their product page.
Ultra Health PUR™ 60B is another popular choice if you prioritize products that meet strict purity and safety standards.
Use the exclusive UltraHealth code NC15 for 15% off
Affiliate Disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links, which means Outliyr LLC gets a small commission if you buy (at no cost to you). Thanks for your support!
Activated NMN Formula: Wonderfeel Youngr™
Overview
NMN Dose: 900 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 2 capsules
Specialty: Patented blend of antioxidants and sirtuin activators
Features: cGMP-certified lab, non-GMO, vegan-friendly
Endorsements: Dr. Andrew Salzman
Born out of Harvard University’s Dr. Andrew Salzman, created a novel (and patented formula) of NMN with some of the most popular longevity ingredients available. Dr. Salzman is a drug inventor with over 50 patents. He’s also involved in NAD research.
Suffice it to say, Dr. Salzman knows what he’s doing, and his Youngr formula reflects that.
Each capsule contains:
- 450 mg Nicotinamide Mononucleotide
- 2 mg Ergothioneine
- 50 mg Trans Resveratrol
- 25 mg Olive fruit Extract (40% hydroxytyrosol)
- 10 mcg Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
By combining the NMN with a decent dosage of sirtuin activators (resveratrol and olive fruit extract), you provide the raw materials your body needs to best use the NMN. Ergothioneine is another interesting and powerful semi-essential nutrient that most of us benefit from supplementing.
I really like that they designed this with sustainability in mind. Your initial order comes in a glass bottle, and subsequent orders arrive in a 100% recyclable & biodegradable refill pouch. Plus, you can save 17% when you subscribe.
Popular Liposomal NMN: LIPO NMN Capsules
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 90 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Strongest pure NMN
Features: FDA Inspected, ISO-Certified, cGMP certified lab, non-GMO. 100% free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners
Endorsements: Dr. Andrew Huberman (on Joe Rogan)
Liposomal delivery technology vastly increases the potency and deliverability of active ingredients into cells. For a long time, QuickSilver Scientific produced the only Liposomal NAD booster. It came in liquid. Renue By Science (re-branded from Alive By Science in February 2022) released the first powder-based liposomal NMN.
Compared to liquid, research shows that powdered liposomal products may be up to 6 times more bioavailable [R]. Nutraceuticals often have problems with liver toxicity at high doses. Liposomes sidestep these issues.
Liposomal technology is more economical, highly effective, and gentle on the body.
I’ve taken nearly 100 doses of this very product. Do note that RBS NMN products often go out of stock.
Best Antioxidant Combo: Ultra Health Liposomal Resvera-M
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg (+ 150mg trans-resveratrol)
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Strong antioxidant
Features: Purity, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging effects
If you’re looking for a top NMN supplement fortified with Dr. David Sinclair’s favorite longevity supplement, resveratrol, look no further.
While NMN is a great precursor to increase your NAD+ levels, you can also add resveratrol for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions. Resveratrol is one of the two most popular sirtuins activators. You can think of NAD+ as the fuel that powers the “engine” of sirtuins. On top of their individual benefits, both work synergistically to support cell repair and fight aging.
Similar to their main NMN products, this undergoes lab testing and passes strict standards for quality and safety. They show all the details on the product page as well, from the chemical Certificate of Analysis to the stability data. Of both NMN and resveratrol in the product.
Pick up Ultra Health’s Liposomal Resvera-M if you want a great 1-2 combo of NMN (”gas”) with resveratrol (”engine”).
Use the exclusive UltraHealth code NC15 for 15% off
NMN I.V. Alternative: NAD+ Max
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 10
Serving Size: 1
Specialty: Potency
Features: Powerful formula with liposomal, slow-release, and nano lipospheric technologies
Dr. John Lieurance is one of the world’s authorities on regenerative cellular medicine. He created the rapidly-growing brand MitoZen to share his first-of-a-kind formulas with the world.
One of MitoZen’s standout products is their NAD+ Max Bullet. What sets it apart is its formulation. The NAD+ Max Bullet includes plant-based polyphenols and terpenes. These powerful antioxidants work synergistically with NMN.
Each “bullet” is packed with:
- 500mg of NAD+
- 250mg of NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)
- 250mg NMN (Nicotinamide Mononuceoside)
- Fisetin, Ginkgo Biloba, EGCG, Lutein, Quercetin, Curcumin, & Resveratrol
- Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Delta 3 Carene, & Alpha Phellandrene
- AP0-808 Probiotic
MitoZen takes pride in their ingredients. They use a proprietary method to stabilize NAD+, ensuring maximum absorption through Nano Lipo-Spheric Technology (NLT NAD+™). This allows for clean and complete absorption of NAD+ and polyphenols, thanks to their patented SRT™ Slow-Release Technology.
What’s most unique about this product, however, is its capability.
According to Dr. Lieurance, this delivery system has the same effects and benefits of an NAD+ I.V. (but without the suffering). The contents release into the bloodstream over a 5-7 hour peroid.
There’s one major catch that will be a dealbreaker to many. To get the maximum effects, unfortunately, you must use it as a suppository.
Biohackers demanding the ultimate NAD+ solution, as powerful as an intravenous (IV) infusion, use the Max Bullet for its biosynergistic formulation and proven effectiveness.
Use the MitoZen exclusive promo code URBAN to save 5%
Original Lipo NMN: QuickSilver Scientific
Overview
NMN Dose: 50 mg
Contents: 100 mL
Serving Size: 2.5 mL
Specialty: First liposomal NMN product
Features: Liposomal, highly absorbable, synergistic blend
QuickSilver Scientific is known for ultra-potent supplements that get great results from small doses. Their NAD+ Platinum line is no exception. At its core is the original (October 2020) liposomal delivery technology. Pioneered by the father of liposomal technology (Dr. Christopher Shade) himself. Tiny 50-100nm particles easily absorb into the bloodstream and cells. QuickSilver’s unique technology mimics the body’s built-in NMN transport system.
To redeem for its low NMN dose, the formulation team included a synergistic blend of other NAD-boosting ingredients (TMG, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, resveratrol, quercetin). Some experts recommend taking NMN and resveratrol together, so this could be a winning combo. Liquid NAD+ Platinum has become their most popular, all-in-one longevity formula. Activating anti-aging sirtuins, methylation pathways, and increasing NAD.
Best Sublingual NMN (Tablets): Renue By Science
Overview
NMN Dose: 125 mg
Contents: 240 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Sublingual tablets
Features: FDA Inspected, ISO-Certified, cGMP certified lab, non-GMO. 100% free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners
Endorsements: Dr. Andrew Huberman (on Joe Rogan), Many MDs
Renue By Science (RBS) is the largest manufacturer of NAD+ products. Since 2017, they’ve innovated with new formulations and delivery mechanisms. Most NMN capsules get degraded (and wasted) by strong stomach acid. Though these tablets contain only 125mg of NMN, you’ll get 3-10 times greater absorption via their unique sublingual tablets. Sublingual delivery bypasses NAMT, the enzyme responsible for breaking down NMN.
In addition, Renue By Science also offers the most different forms of NMN. Including liposomal, transdermal, sublingual, and intranasal products. You can buy it in powder or capsule. As the NAD industry has boomed, manufacturing prices have dropped. In June 2021, this company passed savings on to us by slashing prices by 15 percent.
These tablets are naturally stable and dissolve in the mouth quickly. Renue By Science follows best safety practices. Each batch of Renue By Science NMN undergoes 4 rounds of pharmaceutical-grade purity testing. Resulting in certificates of analysis (CoA) for every product. This is a great value NMN product designed for sublingual use.
Affiliate Disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links, which means Outliyr LLC gets a small commission if you buy (at no cost to you). Thanks for your support!
Bulk NMN (White Label): Ultra Health PUR™ 300C Pharmaceutical-Grade
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 300 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Purity
Features: Enteric coating, no excipients or additives, 3-stage proprietary synthesis
In addition to NR, UltraHealth makes one of the best and most popular lines of NMN available. I’ve talked to Bret, their CTO many times about their manufacturing process. He’s well-versed in the latest NAD/longevity research and is an honest guy. This particular product makes NMN affordable, at just under $0.87 per (250mg) serving. The latest version is enteric-coated, helping it resist degradation by stomach acid to exert more beneficial effects.
Vitamin shops, doctors, and clinics commonly purchase 300C. Since this line is intended for resale by medical professionals, it comes in a sealed mylar pouch.
All PUR NMN undergoes a proprietary three-stage synthesis for maximum bioavailability. They’re one of few companies to post their complete CoA and HPLC purity datasheets.
If you’re looking for a great deal on the same high-quality NMN used in medical research and clinical studies, UltraHealth PUR™ 300C is your option.
Use the exclusive UltraHealth code NC15 for 15% off
Cheapest Sublingual NMN (Powder): Pure NMN Powder
Overview
NMN Dose: 500 mg
Contents: 200 servings
Serving Size: 500 mg
Specialty: Price
Features: FDA Inspected, ISO-Certified, cGMP-certified lab, non-GMO. 100% free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
Endorsements: Dr. Andrew Huberman (on Joe Rogan), Many MDs
Renue By Science makes the list again, this time for their bulk sublingual NMN powder. Sublingual is the delivery method of choice for a quick energy boost. and to actually feel your supplement. Sublingual administration also gets more NMN into your bloodstream for systemic effects.
Though prices have dropped significantly in recent years, NMN supplementation gets expensive. Major 2023 update! This product contains over a years-worth for about $89. By far the cheapest NMN available.
Like all Renue by Science products, here you get pharmaceutical-grade purity testing and a certificate of analysis (CoA) for safety. If you don’t mind powder and want the absolute best deal possible, look no further.
Guaranteed Potent NMN Powder: Do Not Age
Overview
NMN Dose: 500 mg
Contents: 2000 servings
Serving Size: 500 mg
Specialty: Potency guaranteed to your door
Features: GMP-Certified, ISO9001-Certified, vegan-friendly
Do Not Age, appropriately abbreviated “DNA”, is a popular longevity supplement vendor known for regularly publishing their third-party lab testing results. In order to determine which products to create, Do Not Age both follows the latest research as well as listens to customer wants.
DNA’s Scientific Advisory Board features the esteemed longevity researcher Vera Gorbunova. Check out their Science page for a simple research-backed primer on the most recommended supplements and lifestyle interventions.
The major difference with Do Not Age’s NMN is that they guarantee the potency of the product at your doorstep. After third-party testing, many manufacturers store their products in sub-optimal conditions. By the time you receive your package, exposure to light, oxygen, humidity, and harsh environmental conditions have degraded the NMN. From their UK headquarters, DNA ships worldwide, going the extra mile to make sure you receive exactly what you pay for.
You can choose between NMN capsules or bulk powder available in 100 grams, 183 grams, or even an entire kilogram (1000 grams). Then add on their TMG for methylation support and their SIRT6 activator or spermidine for a comprehensive longevity stack.
Use the exclusive Do Not Age code URBAN for 10% off
Highly Stable NMN: ProHealth NMN Pro 300
Overview
NMN Dose: 300 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 2 capsules
Specialty: Stability
Features: Uthever NMN, long shelf life, dual testing
Each capsule of ProHealth’s formula includes 150mg of Uthever’s patented stabilized, ultra-pure, pharmaceutical-grade NMN. Uthever’s research team is led by U.S. doctors from the pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline. This NMN is tested both in-house by Uthever and then batch-tested again by ProHealth to verify authenticity and purity.
Painstaking attention to quality and purity has led to findings that ProHealth NMN remains intact and stable for up to two years. Pro 300 gets rave reviews, often beating popular products like Genex. Pay attention to price, however, as I’ve seen it fluctuate by nearly $50. I’ve also noticed that there isn’t a GMP-certified logo on the bottle itself. If you want a shelf-stable NMN that lasts, ProHealth Pro 300 is a top choice.
Best Intranasal NMN: NeuroNAD Vertical Spray
Overview
NAD Dose: 100 mg/mL
Contents: 20 oz (2,000 mg NAD+)
Serving Size: 2 sprays
Specialty: Intranasal spray
Features: ISO-Certified, FDA Inspected, cGMP certified lab, non-GMO, free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners
Endorsements: Dr. John Lieurance
Looking to supercharge your energy levels, enhance brain function, and optimize your overall well-being? Mitozen is a cutting-edge brand that specializes in incredibly thorough and novel formulations.
NMN and other NAD+ precursors have systemic, whole-body enhancing effects. Intranasal technology, however, can bypass the blood-brain barrier to exert benefits on the brain. Something other forms of NMN do not. Researchers hypothesize that intranasal NAD will increase NAD levels in the brain more than any other delivery method. Intranasal delivery acts quickly, targets the brain, and because it requires a lower dose, reduces potential side effects.
MitoZen’s NeuroNAD Vertical Spray+ is a gamechanger to deliver NAD+ to the brain. Where it boosts mitochondrial function, promotes cellular repair, and enhances brain health. The formula contains a proprietary blend of:
- Pure NAD+
- Plant-based polyphenols
- Potent terpenes
- Bio Ocean minerals
It’s cutting-edge. Few companies have released NAD+ sprays that target the brain, and this one goes a step further. It uses proprietary GelTech™ technology to absorb better than other nasal NAD products.
These include Fisetin, Ginkgo Biloba, EGCG, Lutein, Quercetin, Curcumin, and Resveratrol. Polyphenols work synergistically with NAD+ to support overall health and well-being.
The NeuroNAD Vertical Spray+ is perfect formula for biohackers and anti-aging enthusiasts that want a potent, complete, and fast acting formula.
Notes: NAD+ works better than NMN in nasal sprays. In order to access any of their products, MitoZen requires a one-time fee of $10 to join their Private Members Association (PMA).
Use the MitoZen exclusive promo code URBAN to save 5%
Best Value NMN: Nootropics Depot Enteric Coated Tablets
Overview
NMN Dose: 125 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Value
Features: Enteric coating, dual testing, lot tracking
Nootropics Depot is one of the biggest names in high-quality nootropics. Many popular supplement companies source their raw materials from Nootropic Depot due to their purity and potency. Their NMN tablets are rigorously tested both in-house and by third-party laboratories.
This is one of few products where I’ve actually heard people complain of feeling the energy-boosting effects too strongly. One friend commented that he had to find a way to offset the energy rush.
Enterically coating nicotinamide mononucleotide helps it survive harsh stomach acidity. On the Nootropic Depot site, you can often find additional coupons. I’ve seen their tablets priced as low as $0.61 each. For the best value in terms of purity, and stability, and affordability, Nootropics Depot NMN is my top choice.
Affiliate Disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links, which means Outliyr LLC gets a small commission if you buy (at no cost to you). Thanks for your support!
NOVOS Boost
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 2 capsules
Specialty: Bargain
Features: Established company, manufactured in USA, GMP & NSF Certified Facility, vegan-friendly, sugar-free, gluten-free, non-GMO
Founded by a team of world-renowned longevity scientists and doctors hailing from the most prestigious universities, NOVOS has become a noteworthy anti-aging supplement brand, mostly for their foundational 19-ingredient formula called NOVOS Core.
NOVOS Boost is their NMN product. Just NMN. It’s designed for use alongside Core, but that’s optional. Boost contains 250 mg of high-quality, 3rd-party tested NMN in each serving, ensuring purity and potency. The NMN in NOVOS Boost is a highly stable spherical crystalline form, backed by the world’s top aging experts from Harvard Medical School, MIT, and other top institutions.
NOVOS is also one of few supplement companies that actually run research studies on their products.
As you can imagine, it’s a high-quality, high-purity, and highly stable NMN, tested by independent third-party labs.
Overall, this is a fairly standard oral NMN product. I’m not sure why each serving is two capsules yet only 250mg of NMN. With NOVOS Boost, you’re paying a premium for brand name. Although when you subscribe, you can save up to 27%.
They mostly justify this with claims that their products are cleaner and absorb better due to “next-generation” NMN technology.
Boost NMN is expensive because it’s backed by a prestigious brand name, but it’s still a decent option for their customers already using their NOVOS Core product.
Use the exclusive NOVOS code URBAN5 for $5 off
MAAC10 NMN
Overview
NMN Dose: 125 mg
Contents: 30 capsules
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Specialty: Bargain
Features: Manufactured in USA, GMP & NSF Certified Facility
MAAC10 has sold NMN capsules since 2015. Few companies can sell these boosters at under $1 per dose. As you’d expect, this product is non-GMO, and free of common contaminants (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and preservatives).
Manufacturing occurs in a GMP-certified facility and a CoA posted on Amazon shows that the recent lot exceeded the 125mg specified on the label. The product itself isn’t anything special. No unique delivery mechanisms. Just NMN packed into ordinary capsules. Make sure to count the pills, as some users report getting only 28 or 29 instead of 30. If you’re looking for no-frills affordable NMN pills, look into MAAC10.
Also Good: Double Wood Stabilized NMN
Overview
NMN Dose: 250 mg
Contents: 60 capsules
Serving Size: 2 capsules
Specialty: Sales
Features: Nothing notable
If you can get past the old look, Double Wood Stabilized NMN is beloved by thousands. Each pill contains 125mg of NMN packed into a capsule made of gelatin.
Double Wood products are made, tested, and produced in a cGMP facility in New York.
This was once the cheapest option on the market at $19.99 per 60 capsules. It’s risen significantly since then and is no longer my favorite budget pick. I also don’t like that the ingredients list contains unnecessary Rice Flour. And the CoA listed online is from 2019. Buy Double Wood NMN when it’s on sale.
Dangers of Most NMN Supplements
Recently, I cut severely back on my supplement intake. This is why.
Firstly, third-party reports regularly find high levels of supplement contamination. Heavy metals, impurities, and other banned substances lurk in innocent products.
Then there’s fraud. Some products don’t even contain ANY of the primary ingredients! Instead, they fill capsules with whatever cheap materials they can find.
Commercial NMN is relatively new. Researchers like Dr. Sinclair create a surge in demand, and manufacturers can’t match the supply. Stores have become littered with fake, adulterated, (and expensive) products.
Update: Massive Fake NMN Supplement Scam
I’ve long warned about the lack of regulatory oversight of NMN products.
And it’s far worse than I thought.
A shocking third-party investigation uncovered tens of thousands of fake supplements sold on Amazon. Many of these included NMN.
A few of the dozens of fake brands include:
- Komprocha
- NMN Max
- NMN Plus
- Energecko
- Vitablossom
- Mistacy
- ChriBubble
- Glorifikation
Many of which are the “best sellers” in their respective categories.
You can see the references and lab CoA data for yourself here.
Keep in mind that this is only one recent discovery. Likely just the tip of the iceberg.
Don’t fall victim to NMN scams.
On the other hand…
The brands I trust (listed below) have mostly either been directly used in clinical studies or undergone strict third-party testing.
Today, I regularly talk to the best-informed minds in longevity. This is my regularly updated list of the best nicotinamide mononucleotide products I’m coming across.
2023 Update: The NMN Ban
Beginning in November 2022, you may have heard the major NMN news. A legal battle instigated by a large biotech company caused the FDA to revoke NMN’s status as a dietary supplement.
For months, everything continued as normal.
Then Amazon warned β-nicotinamide mononucleotide vendors that they would yank their products from shelves on March 13th. All products that do not contain a National Drug Code (NDC) on the label. Amazon is full of fraudulent supplements, so I view this as a net positive. Hopefully, other regulators will not follow suit.
Certain vendors have assured me that, for legal reasons, their NMN supplements will be exempt from the potential ban.
If, however, regulatory agencies successfully NMN across the board, you still have other options. See this new post for a list of free habits and other great NMN alternatives that also increase NAD+.
Prefer video?
How NMN & NAD+ Work (Simple Science)
Nicotinamide mononucleotide builds a critical energy-generating molecule called NAD. You’d drop dead in 30 seconds without it. Every cell throughout the body relies on it. 500+ enzymes wouldn’t work without it. Vital roles of NAD include:
- Slowing aging by activating anti-aging proteins called sirtuins
- Increasing energy (Krebs Cycle)
- Repairing damaged DNA (PARP1)
- Creating hormones
- Facilitating muscle-building
- Enhancing recovery
Leading scientists get excited by things that bolster the body’s built-in defense mechanisms. Sirtuins do exactly that, but only if you have adequate NAD.
The natural aging process slowly degrades NAD. A 50-year-old has roughly half the levels of a 20-year-old. Though you’ll live with low NAD, you’ll accelerate the aging process and reduce your healthspan.
That’s where NMN helps.
NMN is a synthetically produced nucleotide and a direct precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. NMN is a key component to proper cell functioning.
Listen to David Sinclair’s multiple explanations on the Joe Rogan Experience Podcast.
Best Forms of NMN (Delivery Technologies)
The strongest NMN in the world doesn’t make a difference if you cannot absorb it Click To Tweet
Before comparing brands and products, you should know one other vital detail that may change your top pick.
The NMN delivery method can change the effects you feel, the potency, the side effect profile, and the price.
Pure NMN | Sublingual NMN | Intranasal NMN | Liposomal NMN | |
---|---|---|---|---|
🩸 Absorption | Low | Medium | High | High |
⏱️ Duration | Short | Medium | Short | Up to 24 hours |
💥 Onset | Slow | Fastest | Fast | Fast |
⚖️ Dose Required | High | Medium | Low | Low |
🎯 Target | Muscle | Systemic | Brain | Systemic |
✅ Feature | Convenience | Noticeable energy boost | Neuroprotective, relieves brain fog | Extended-release into bloodstream, highest bioavailability |
💰 Price | Cheapest | Moderate | Moderate | Expensive |
🤔 Value | Low | Low | Medium | Best |
Normal Pure NMN Powder
Typical NMN powders are the cheapest and the most researched. Most products on the market fall into this category. Unfortunately, it’s also the least absorbed.
Stomach acid degrades unprotected NMN and NR into NAM (nicotinamide) before it can reach the most important tissues. Huge doses of NAD boosters to combat low absorption disproportionately increase NAM. Excess NAM has health consequences, such as inhibiting sirtuins (a vital family of proteins responsible for cellular health and longevity) [R].
Therefore, simply increasing the dose of a typical low-bioavailability NMN powder won’t work well.
Sublingual NMN
Sublingual delivery is NMN dissolved under the tongue. Some companies use special technologies to bypass the liver, rapidly diffusing into the bloodstream, resulting in greater absorption. Usually, it costs more than ordinary powders. Users of sublingual NMN report quickly feeling a big surge of energy and rush.
So far, however, there is little research on exactly how much more bioavailable sublingual powder is compared to oral.
Wondering if your supplements actually do anything or are a waste of money? Feeling the effects of sublingual NMN will convince you.
Intranasal NMN
Intranasal is the latest upcoming NMN delivery method. Only nasal administration can bypass the blood-brain barrier and first-pass metabolism to increase NAD levels in the brain [R, R].
This paper summarized the science nicely (emphasis mine),
“…drugs administered using nasal route have usually higher bioavailability, less side effects and result in higher brain exposure at similar dosage than the oral drugs.”
Evaluation of intranasal delivery route of drug administration for brain targeting
Compared to oral use, nasal administration requires far lower doses, has fewer side effects, and has a greater brain impact. Additionally, early research is showing promise in restoring energy after traumatic brain injury.
Due to limited supply, intranasal NMN is also more expensive.
Liposomal NMN
Liposomal supplements absorb faster, more efficiently, and without breaking down in your gut (compared to the typical oral forms). This is true for many supplements. Liposomes also make the NMN sustained release, continuing to increase NAD over a 24-hour period.
Simply put, liposomes are tiny fatty “shells” resembling a human cell membrane. This prevents breakdown by stomach acid and greater use throughout the body. They’ve been used since the 1960s, and some supplement formulators have proclaimed liposomal technology the biggest breakthrough in decades.
Researchers, however, are divided over the difference liposomal technology makes for NMN.
Work by Dr. Christopher Shade suggests liposomes generally increase supplement absorption by 3-10 fold. Giving you better value by requiring a smaller dose. Unfortunately, it’s also the most expensive due to the difficult manufacturing process.
Latest Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Human Health Benefits
Supplementing the NAD+ molecule itself works, but only in certain bodily systems. NMN, on the other hand, boosts cellular NAD systemically. It restores energy to aging tissues that need it most.
Benefits come from both the molecule itself and increasing NAD+ levels. Scientists are still uncovering new health effects daily.
NMN is best known for its anti-aging benefits, but it does so much more.
Some of the health & longevity benefits of NMN include:
- Boosts energy metabolism
- Improves insulin sensitivity and cholesterol and glucose metabolism [R, R]
- Protects against diabetes, fatty liver disease, and obesity
- Rejuvenates mice
- Fixes brain cells resistant to autophagy [R]
- Promotes cognition in Alzheimer’s patients
- Defends against neurodegeneration
- Improves memory
- Reduces fat mass
- Strengthens grip and walking speed [R]
- Increases lean mass
- Radically increases NAD+
- Improve immune function
- Restores and protects kidney function [R]
- Promotes cardiometabolic health (cholesterol, blood pressure, blood vessels) [R, R, R]
- Up to 75% reduced blood triglycerides when given via IV [R]
- Resistance to microbes and immunodeficiency
- Better blood flow
- May improve hormone levels [R]
- Accelerates recovery from viral illness [R]
- Old mice died 30% less from viral infection [R]
- Confers benefits of calorie restriction
- Protects the heart
- Enhancing human performance
- Boosts physical endurance and aerobic capacity [R, R, R]
- Re-establishing mobility in the elderly
- Potentially useful in treating COVID
- Restores fertility
- Mitigates frailty [R]
- Improves mitochondrial health
- Greater wellbeing
- Protects skin from UV damage [R, R]
- Reduces biological age [R, R]
- Promotes DNA repair
- Enhanced sleep quality [R]
- NAD allows the DNA-protective Sirtuin protein family to work properly
That last one is especially important. NAD is a required cofactor for the sirtuin family of proteins to exert their protective & anti-aging benefits.
Taking nicotinamide mononucleotide helps protect your body and brain. Emerging research finds that NMN optimizes NAD and helps restore organ systems to a healthy state.
But before buying expensive supplements, I suggest going the natural route.
How to Boost NAD+ Naturally
You can increase NAD levels through two primary ways:
- Adding specially formulated boosters
- Optimizing the NAD+ recycling process (salvage pathway)
You’ll get better, longer-lasting results from the latter.
Natural ways to boost your NAD levels without NMN include [R]:
- Raw honey
- Fermented foods
- Sauna sessions
- Pau D’ Arco tea
- Fasting
Eating more of certain foods that contain trace amounts of NMN:
- Broccoli
- Cucumber
- Cabbage
- Avocado
- Tomato
- Edamame
But you won’t get appreciable amounts from these foods alone.
I wrote a mega-guide to naturally boost your NAD.
After you’ve mastered the simple boosting strategies, you’re ready for the top products.
The Complete Longevity Supplement Stack (NMN & More)
Longevity supplements can get confusing:
Are you wasting money?
Is there significant overlap (and also gaps) in the pathways the supplements activate?
Is the product making a difference?
What if you can simplify your life, take fewer products, and get better effects?
This is all possible, and it comes down to this…
A well-designed longevity stack.
Ideal formulations contain multiple ingredients. Each targets and improves different facets of biological aging.
Keeping you looking and feeling younger and performing optimally.
Together, a multi-supplement formula is more effective than the sum of the parts. This is called the entourage effect, and it’s best understood as the “1+1=3 effect”. And, this powerful ingredient biosynergy often comes with fewer side effects.
So I designed a simple “Longevity Upgrade Cheatsheet” to summarize the benefits of 30+ popular longevity supplements as well as provide my universal essentials. Download it here…
Common NMN Questions and Answers
NMN vs NR: which is better?
NMN is more stable than NR and this stability confers additional health benefits. To use NR, first, your body must convert it into NMN. If the conversion enzyme NRK isn’t working well, NR won’t increase NAD levels. Many longevity researchers favor NMN over NR.
How can I tell if an NMN supplement works?
Is NMN safe?
NMN is considered safe in animals. Human trials so far show impressive safety. Follow-up studies have found similar results. NMN has so far been shown to be safe and not toxic, even at high concentrations. Make sure to purchase high-quality, contaminant-free products from reputable vendors.
What is the best NMN dosage?
Research suggests that the ideal dose for nicotinamide mononucleotide is anywhere between 100mg to 1,500mg daily, depending on the form. For normal NMN, the best results are seen at 900-1,250mg per day [R, R]. Although minimal, side effects do increase with larger doses.
Are there side effects of NMN?
Studies have reported no clear side effects from supplementing NMN within the recommended dosage. Nicotinamide riboside, on the other hand, may impair athletic performance. Athletes especially should consider NMN over NR.
Should I Take Trimethylglycine (TMG) with NMN?
I recommend taking an amino acid called betaine (or TMG) with NMN to support the body’s natural methylation process. TMG is believed to reduce any potential side effects. Especially when using oral NMN powder over the long term. TMG is likely less necessary for liposomal and sublingual NMN.
Will MIB-626 replace NMN?
MIB-626 is a novel and stable NAD booster produced by David Sinclair’s MetroBiotech. MIB-626 is under investigation for preserving muscle mass, improving cognitive performance, and slowing aging. Since it is “novel”, it’ll be patented and will make Metro huge profits. There’s virtually zero research on MIB626 compared to thousands of studies on NMN.
Why take NMN instead of NAD?
Counterintuitively, directly supplementing normal NAD powder isn’t effective. The molecules are too large and quickly get broken down. Liposomal and intranasal NAD supplement technology overcomes this barrier and works well.
The Best High-Bioavailability NMN Brands & Products to Slow Biological Aging
Without adequate NAD, we’d die within seconds.
You’re reading this, so that’s not the issue.
Partial depletion of this cellular “gas”, results in us unknowingly living below our potential.
That’s why many of the world’s top anti-aging and longevity researchers love nicotinamide mononucleotide:
- Dr. David Sinclair
- Dr. Axe
- Dr. Berg
- Dr. Hyman
- Dr. Rhonda Patrick
- Dr. Peter Attia
NMN is arguably the top NAD-boosting supplement available.
Users often report profound energy and overall health changes.
I always recommend starting with the cheap NAD+ boosting precursors.
Certain genetic variations and lifestyle habits, however, can dramatically increase your need for supplementation:
See my review of a powerful tool called SelfDecode I use to understand genetics and help folks personalize their ideal longevity protocols.
Alternatively, you can use one of these top biological age tests to get a real-time snapshot of your status. Then test again 3-6 months after supplementing. That’s one way to make sure you’re getting the real, unadulterated molecule.
Knowing your underlying biological needs can help you decide whether spending hundreds on NMN will be worth it.
Fake and adulterated products have flooded the NAD supplements scene. Many do not contain any NMN at all. Waste of money aside, using a contaminated NMN product does more harm than good. Choose one of the products above to slow aging, boost energy, and feel your best.
Questions or comments about any of this? Let me know your experience in the comments below!