In one study published in 2016, NMN supplementation in aged mice improved metabolic health, including better insulin sensitivity, enhanced physical activity, and reduced age-related weight gain [1]. The NMN-treated mice showed increased energy expenditure, suggesting that NMN could help prevent weight gain by promoting a more active metabolism.
NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, is a supplement that supports NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) levels in the body, making it sought after for healthy aging. For many people, aging also comes with unwanted weight gain due to a slower metabolism. NMN supplementation might be able to help out in that area, too, at least according to early research.
In another study, NMN reduced fat accumulation and promoted increased energy expenditure in obese mice. Researchers noted that this appeared to improve the function of the mitochondria, which could result in more efficient fat-burning and less weight gain [2].
We want to clarify that NMN isn't a diet supplement, and the results of NMN for weight loss or lowered blood pressure can vary from person to person. Still, we need to take a closer look at these studies that show the promise of NMN for healthy weight management to understand this compound's full potential in supporting our wellness routines.
Can NMN help with Weight Loss?
Some evidence suggests that consistent NMN supplementation and an active lifestyle might support weight loss — but NMN isn't a weight loss supplement.
While it might help some people achieve their weight loss goals, others might not notice a difference. This is because many factors in the body and one's environment play a role in managing body weight.
NMN's potential for weight loss lies in its ability to support better metabolic function. As NAD+ levels increase, the body may become more efficient at converting food into energy rather than storing it as fat.
On top of this, NAD+ is involved in activating a protein called SIRT1, which regulates fat and glucose metabolism, potentially leading to better weight management [3].
NMN vs. Traditional Weight Loss Methods
Traditional weight loss methods rely on calorie restriction or intense exercise, but NMN's role lies in supporting our foundations—cellular health. NMN is a precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme needed in virtually all cellular functioning, including maintaining the body's natural metabolic efficiency (turning the food we eat into energy).
NMN doesn't directly burn fat or suppress the appetite, but it might support cellular processes that may lead to a higher metabolic rate and more energy, potentially making weight loss efforts more effective when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
Can NMN Lower Blood Pressure?
NMN supplements aren't drugs, so their effects can vary depending on the individual. Some early research papers suggest NMN supports cardiovascular health, which may improve blood vessel function and help maintain normal blood pressure levels [4]. Still, it shouldn't be your only line of defense.
NMN is primarily taken to support NAD+ levels, which does play a role in supporting the health of endothelial cells lining the blood vessels [4]. Healthier blood vessels can better relax and contract, which helps maintain normal blood pressure levels.
Another way NMN could lower blood pressure is through its potential antioxidant effects [5]. NMN has been found to support healthy inflammation levels, which can further support cardiovascular health and improve blood pressure control.
Can NMN Raise Blood Pressure?
There is no evidence that NMN raises blood pressure or is dangerous.
Most studies indicate that NMN supports cardiovascular health. However, individual responses can vary with any supplement, so we strongly encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider for more personalized advice.
NMN and Cholesterol
There might be some positive impact of NMN and cholesterol levels, but the research on this is still fairly new and limited. The idea here is that by enhancing NAD+ production, NMN may activate pathways that are involved in lipid metabolism.
One study in particular has shown that NMN can help improve cholesterol profiles by increasing HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and reducing LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) levels [4]. This effect and NMN's anti-inflammatory properties may support cardiovascular health and one's weight loss goals.
NMN for Weight Loss, Blood Pressure, and Cholesterol
The current research suggests that NMN may have the potential to be a supportive supplement for weight loss, mainly by improving metabolic function and energy expenditure.
While animal studies have shown promising results, human research is still in its early stages, and NMN is not FDA-approved as a weight loss treatment. If you're considering NMN for weight management, viewing it as a potential complement to a healthy lifestyle rather than a standalone solution is the more realistic plan.
Resources:
- Shade, C. (2020). The science behind NMN–A stable, reliable NAD+ activator and anti-aging molecule. Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, 19(1), 12.
- Uddin, G. M., Youngson, N. A., Chowdhury, S. S., Hagan, C., Sinclair, D. A., & Morris, M. J. (2020). Administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) reduces metabolic impairment in male mouse offspring from obese mothers. Cells, 9(4), 791.
- Xie, N., Zhang, L., Gao, W., Huang, C., Huber, P. E., Zhou, X., ... & Zou, B. (2020). NAD+ metabolism: pathophysiologic mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Signal transduction and targeted therapy, 5(1), 227.
- Kimura, S., Ichikawa, M., Sugawara, S., Katagiri, T., Hirasawa, Y., Ishikawa, T., ... & Gotoh, A. (2022). Nicotinamide mononucleotide is safely metabolized and significantly reduces blood triglyceride levels in healthy individuals. Cureus, 14(9).
- de Picciotto, N. E., Gano, L. B., Johnson, L. C., Martens, C. R., Sindler, A. L., Mills, K. F., ... & Seals, D. R. (2016). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress with aging in mice. Aging cell, 15(3), 522-530.
