The Top 5 Best NMN Products of 2022 to Increase NAD Levels
The leading medical schools and the latest scientific research point to the wide array of benefits of taking NMN supplements to raise NAD levels and slow down aging. But, what are the potential benefits of NMN? What is the optimal NMN dosage? We answer the most frequently asked questions and compare 2022’s best NMN products.
A Quick Look at 2022’s Top NAD Precursors and NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) Products
- Best NMN supplement overall: Wonderfeel® Youngr™ NMN
- Second Place: Elysium Signal
- Third Place: LifeForce Peak NMN
- Fourth Place: Elevant Prime
- Fifth Place: Tru Niagen (NR)
Nicotinamide mononucleotide, or NMN, is a precursor to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is a coenzyme found in all living cells. As early as in our 30s, NAD levels start plummeting and the risks of age-related illness, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and metabolic disease, increase. Multiple studies show that raising NAD levels offers myriad benefits, including increasing insulin sensitivity, reversing mitochondrial dysfunction, and improving lifespan.
Supplementing with NAD precursors is an effective way to increase NAD levels for healthier aging. NMN in particular is absorbed well when taken orally and quickly converted to NAD in the cells.
Before taking an NMN supplement, it’s important to be clear on the benefits, the differences between NAD precursors, recommended dosages, and the value of pairing NMN with sirtuin activators. We’re covering everything you need to know, including the best NMN supplements of 2022, to help you get started.
Potential Benefits of NMN
There are a number of potential benefits associated with NMN. These include:
- Anti-aging at the cellular level
- Increased energy
- Clearer thinking
- Improved skin elasticity
- Noticeable relief from aches and pain
- Improved sleep
- Rapid recovery from hangovers and jet lag
These effects are largely the result of increased NAD biosynthesis. Studies show that NMN can enhance insulin secretion and action, improve neural function in the brain, suppress adipose tissue inflammation relating to aging, and improve function of cellular mitochondria.
Differences Between NAD Boosters
Research shows that both NMN and NR, or nicotinamide riboside, increase NAD levels for healthier aging. Both are considered safe for human consumption, and both compounds use the same pathway to boost NAD levels. NMN and NR also share a similar molecular makeup.
The key difference is what happens during the conversion to NAD inside the cell. NMN is an immediate precursor to NAD. In order for NR to convert to NAD in the cells, it first converts to NMN. By taking NMN directly, you can avoid this conversion step.
Dosage
Dosing recommendations for NMN can vary. Human studies to date have looked at doses between 250 and 1200 mg. Increasingly, experts in longevity science are recommending a higher dose for the greatest effect. This bears out in recent studies:
The most recent clinical trial included four NMN dosing groups – placebo, 300 mg, 600 mg, and 900 mg. Researchers measured three markers before and after the 60-day study and determined that all three NMN groups performed substantially better in all categories than the placebo group, and 600 mg and 900 mg groups had performed significantly better than the 300 group. The greatest improvements were in the 900 mg group.
A six-week trial of 48 runners looked at effects of NMN and exercise. The participants were divided into three dosage groups of 300 mg, 600 mg, 1,200 mg, plus a control group. The biggest effect was evidenced in the medium and high dosage groups, which averages out to 900 mg per day.
A small clinical study in Japan looked at the effects and safety of 500 mg of NMN, with no impact recorded on physiological measurements.
Professor David Sinclair from the Sinclair Lab at Harvard Medical School is a leading authority in NMN and NAD science with a focus on the epigenetics of aging. He has been forthcoming about the supplements he takes daily, which includes 1 gram (1000mg) of NMN.
Sirtuin Activators
Sirtuins are protein enzymes that regulate cellular health. Mammals have seven sirtuins that regulate homeostasis in the cells. That makes them responsible for managing inflammation, detoxification, metabolism, circadian rhythms, stress resistance, and mitochondrial biogenesis, all of which means they play a role in longevity.
To function correctly, sirtuins need NAD. Sirtuins, then, are considered NAD-dependent enzymes. As NAD declines, so does the sirtuin function. Among other things, that impacts mitochondrial gene expression, which is itself considered one of the hallmarks of aging.
One of the most well-known sirtuin activators is resveratrol. It’s a polyphenol found naturally in plants and fruits, including grapes. Resveratrol stimulates a sirtuin known as SIRT-1, creating an antioxidant effect that improves insulin resistance and supports both the muscular and nervous systems.
Ergothioneine is another great sirtuin activator. It’s found abundantly in mushrooms and scientists call it the “longevity vitamin” because of its antioxidant properties and ability to function as a therapeutic agent. This compound is associated with activity in SIRT-1 and SIRT-6.
Lifestyle habits, including consistent exercise and intermittent fasting, can also impact sirtuin levels.
Is NMN safe to take?
Yes. To date, no studies or even anecdotal evidence have found health risks or negative side effects in association with NMN supplementation. A 2020 human clinical toxicity study concluded that NMN can be safely administered. A 2022 trial – the largest NMN study to date – found no signs of toxicity at 300, 600, and 900 mg dosing amounts.
Can NMN make you look younger?
It might. While nothing can change chronological age, or the years you’ve been alive, biological age is a different story. NMN raises NAD to more youthful levels, with effects that include more energy, improved cognitive function, a faster metabolism, better sleep, and an increased libido. In terms of physical improvements, there is also evidence that age-related deteriorations improve in mice taking NMN. More research is needed to determine whether NMN can make humans look younger, but researchers can confirm its positive effects in terms of healthspan.
How fast does NMN work?
There’s no single timeline for everyone. While NAD levels will begin increasing quickly after an oral NMN supplement is ingested, the effects may take time to become noticeable. Some effects are noticeable to certain people within just a week to two weeks, while others need a full six months to really see the benefits.
Keep in mind that NAD decline is gradual, and restoring NAD to more youthful levels is likewise slow and steady. It can be helpful to keep a journal to track key parameters, such as energy levels, recovery times, and sleep quality.
How We Chose the Best NMN Products in the Market
To make our recommendations of the best NMN products on the market, we considered criteria that indicate quality, safety, efficacy, and value. As a part of our selection process, we considered:
- the company’s quality assurance procedures and manufacturing processes
- product potency
- shelf stability
- the scientific approach to the formulas and the team behind them
- overall ingredients
- indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
- customer reviews
- whether the company has been subject to an FDA warning letter
- whether the company makes any unsupported health claims
- products being made in the US or EU, by a cGMP certified facility.
- companies that provide proof of third-party testing by an accredited lab
Where available, we’ve also noted whether subscriptions offer savings.
Pricing and Value Guidelines
3 Stars (Best): Price per 1,000 NMN or NR less than $4.00
2 Stars (Second Tier): Price per 1,000 NMN or NR less between $4.00 – $6.00
1 Star (Third Tier): Price per 1,000 NMN or NR less higher than $6.00
The Best NMN Products
It’s no secret that NMN is a powerful molecule that can help increase NAD levels and promote longevity. NMN has been shown to be so effective that it’s becoming one of the most popular supplements on the market. With so many different NMN products on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are worth your money. These products have been shown to be some of the most effective at increasing NAD levels and promoting longevity. So if you’re looking for an edge in aging, make sure to check out these top 5 NMN products!
Best overall NMN supplement
Top Pick: Wonderfeel® Youngr™
- Value: 3 Stars (Best)
- Price per 1,000 mg NMN (monthly subscription): $2.70
- Price: $88 one-time purchase; $73 subscribe & save
- NMN per serving size: 900 mg
- Serving size: 2 capsules
Our unanimous top pick is Wonderfeel Youngr. The company offers the first-of-its-kind patented NMN formula with 900mg dosage that is backed by the latest and largest human clinical trial to date. Furthermore, their innovative formula is developed by Professor Andrew Salzman MD from Harvard Medical School. He is also an inventor with remarkable scientific discoveries and over three decades in drug development.
Besides featuring a clinically tested NMN in the capsule, Wonderfeel Youngr also features one of our favorite super ingredients, ergothioneine. Along with other novel sirtuin activators and antioxidants which is a multi-targeted approach to cellular health.
Wonderfeel team says that they referenced the most current research to calculate the most appropriate dose of all ingredients in the Youngr formula. In addition to 900 mg of NMN, a daily serving delivers:
4 mg of Ergothioneine – Dubbed the “longevity vitamin”, it’s the most effective element in certain mushrooms. Furthermore, continued scientific evidence suggests ERGO has tremendous cognitive benefits and prevents the brain from aging. It also has a dual role in this formula also working as a sirtuin activator.
20 mg of Hydroxytyrosol – A potent polyphenol with metabolistic, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties that have shown to have great cognitive benefits.
100 mg of Resveratrol – Working jointly with NMN as a sirtuin activator, it’s designed to boost mitochondrial activity, and allay metabolic disease. Studies have shown that resveratrol at a lower dose acts as an anti-apoptotic agent. Thus increasing cell survival proteins.
120 IU of Vitamin D3.
The combination of key antioxidants and sirtuins activators in Wonderfeel’s Youngr formula combined with a high dose NMN makes for the most efficient and effective NMN supplement on the market.
Wonderfeel offers its NMN supplement as a one-time purchase or with a subscription to save $15. Also, orders ship monthly.
Second Place: Elysium Signal
- Value: 1 Star (Third Tier)
- Price per 1,000 mg NMN (monthly subscription): $6.70
- Price: $60 one-time purchase; $40/bottle with annual subscription, $45/bottle with semi-annual subscription, $50/bottle with monthly subscription
- NMN per serving size: 250 mg
- Serving size: 2 capsules
Elysium markets its NMN supplement as mitochondrial support for metabolic aging. In addition to 250 mg of NMN per serving, Signal includes what Elysium calls a SIRT3 sirtuin activation complex. Moreover, it is made with honokiol (from Magnolia tree bark) and viniferin (from grapevines) to support healthy mitochondrial function.
The lead scientist behind this product is Leonard Guarente, Ph.D., a leading biologist at MI. He spent decades researching the genetic and molecular basis of aging.
While we like the sirtuin activators that are present in this formula, one major downside of this product is the low dosage. It is at only 250mg NMN per serving. Furthermore, you can save between 17% and 33% with a monthly, semi-annual, or annual subscription plan.
Third Place: Lifeforce Peak NMN
- Value: 1 Star (Third Tier)
- Price per 1,000 mg NMN (monthly subscription): $6.22
- Price: $90 one-time purchase; save 20% with monthly subscription
- NMN per serving size: 375 mg
- Serving size: 3 capsules
Peak NMN from Lifeforce comes packed with other ingredients including 660 mg of berberine HCI, 200 mg of white mulberry extract. Then, it also has 10.5 mg of lithium orotate, and 5.7 mg of spermidine, spermidine being a sirtuin activator. Also, the highest dose ingredient in this formula, berberine, is a popular nutraceutical. It is famous to help regulate insulin sensitivity and lower cholesterol levels. Then it is also believed to help with longevity. Berberine has a high risk of interfering with other drugs. Please make sure to consult your physician before taking it.
Peak NMN is stable for 24 months. The formula combines lab-tested NMN with other key ingredients. This supports mood, a healthy stress response, and also blood sugar stability.
Furthermore, a serving size is three capsules, which nets 375 mg of NMN. Lifeforce recommends taking 1-3 capsules in the afternoon or evening before a meal for the greatest efficacy.
Lifeforce offers a monthly subscription, which saves $20 on the purchase price. Shop now at Lifeforce.
Fourth Place: Elevant Prime
- Value: 1 Star (Third Tier)
- Price per 1,000 mg NMN (monthly subscription): $6.69
- Price: $59 one-time purchase; from $50.15 with subscription
- NMN per serving size: 125 mg
- Serving size: 1 capsule
We picked the Elevant NMN despite its low dosage and high price NMN per milligram for those of you who prefer a single ingredient. Elevant capsules only feature NMN and do not contain sirtuin activators and antioxidants that our top picks feature. These additional ingredients are critical to improve the efficacy of NMN and overall perform a more round anti-aging effect.
Elevant Prime is a trademarked form of NMN for improved immunity. A single-serving capsule delivers 125 mg of NMN. Though the company advises optimizing your dose based on body weight and includes guidance for calculating that number. In addition, Elevant NMN product is endorsed by Professor Eric Verdin MD, from Buck Institute of Aging. He is also a prominent scientist who specializes in the relationship between aging and the immune system.
The low dose per serving makes this one of the highest price points NMN’s in the market. Also, one-time purchases and subscriptions are both available. In addition, Elevant Prime is available in 60, 120, and 180-capsule bottles.
Fifth Place: Tru Niagen
- Value: 2 Stars (Third Tier)
- Price per 1,000 mg NR (monthly subscription): $4.40
- Price: $47 one-time purchase; save 15% with subscription
- NR per serving size: 300 mg
- Serving size: 1 capsule
We included Tru Niagen because it is one of the first and better-known companies in the space promoting NAD precursors in the form of NR (nicotinamide riboside). Scientists discovered NR long before understanding how NMN works, thus there is more research on NR than on NMN.
However, we see a tremendous uptick in NMN research and clinical studies due to a recent discovery: Now it’s clear that NMN is an intermediate compound between NR and NAD. Meaning NR converts to NMN, at which point NMN triggers NAD production.
Charles Brenner Ph.D. is the Chief Scientific Advisor at Tru-Niagen, a pioneering biologist and biochemist. He had discovered NR to be a precursor to NAD in humans.
For those who prefer to take NR which is an earlier discovery and comes with more studies, Tru Niagen capsule delivers 300 mg of NR and is available as a one-time purchase or via subscription to save. In addition, it comes in 30, 90, and 180-count sizes, with several options for delivery.
Conclusion
The leading medical schools and the latest scientific research point to the wide array of benefits of taking NMN and NR as oral supplements to raise NAD levels and slow down aging.
Clinical studies show that NMN and NR are safe to use, and there have been no reports of side effects. However, not all NMN brands are equal in dosage and recent testing of various NMN products showed that a high percentage of the products did not have the NMN as the label claimed.
Finding a good, trustworthy source can be challenging. With any supplement, we recommend you always do a proper search on the brand and its legitimacy. We have selected only the brands that are reputable and work with top scientists in their fields.
