Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a building block the body uses to make nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is a helper molecule that runs cellular energy and metabolism. As people age, NAD+ levels fall. Taking NMN is thought to help raise NAD+ back up.
People use NMN to support energy production, metabolic health, and markers linked to aging. A few small early trials in humans hint at improvements in physical performance and insulin sensitivity. The broader evidence is still thin. Most claimed benefits need more study.
Take NMN on an empty stomach. The limited data we have points to better absorption that way. Because NAD+ participates in DNA repair and cell growth, there is a theoretical concern that NMN might fuel the growth of existing cancer cells. This idea has not been tested or proven in people, but it merits care.