Fatty Acid
Fish Oil (Omega-3)
A rich source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, commonly used to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
Strong Evidence
Emerging Research Hormone Precursor
NAD+/NMN
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a direct precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a coenzyme found in every living cell that participates in over 500 enzymatic reactions. NAD+ is essential for mitochondrial energy production, DNA repair via PARP enzymes, and activation of sirtuins — a family of seven proteins often called "longevity regulators." NAD+ levels decline significantly with age — by roughly 50% between ages 40 and 60 in some tissues. This decline is implicated in mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired DNA repair, metabolic disorders, and the broader phenotype of aging. NMN supplementation aims to restore NAD+ levels by providing the immediate biosynthetic precursor. Animal studies have demonstrated remarkable results: improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced mitochondrial function, increased exercise endurance, and extended healthspan in aged mice. The first long-term human clinical trial (2022) showed that 250mg NMN daily for 12 weeks increased blood NAD+ levels and improved muscle function in older men. However, the field is still young, and optimal dosing, long-term safety, and definitive anti-aging effects in humans remain under investigation.
Updated March 1, 2026This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication regimen.
Benefits & Uses
Increases blood and tissue NAD+ levels. Improved mitochondrial function and cellular energy production. Enhanced insulin sensitivity and metabolic health markers. Improved muscle function and exercise capacity in older adults. Potential DNA repair support through PARP activation. Sirtuin activation for longevity pathways.
Side Effects & Precautions
Generally well tolerated in human trials to date. Mild GI discomfort reported occasionally. Theoretical concern about promoting growth of existing cancers (NAD+ supports rapidly dividing cells). Flushing at very high doses. Long-term safety data beyond 12 months is limited.
Dosage & Administration
250-1000mg NMN daily, taken in the morning (NAD+ has a circadian rhythm and is naturally higher during waking hours). Sublingual delivery may improve bioavailability by bypassing first-pass metabolism. Store in cool, dry conditions — NMN can degrade in heat and humidity. Some protocols combine NMN with resveratrol and TMG (trimethylglycine) as methyl donor support.
Contraindications
Active cancer or history of cancer (NAD+ supports cellular proliferation). Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Individuals under 30 (NAD+ levels are generally adequate). Those on chemotherapy (potential interference with treatment mechanisms).
Known Interactions
| Substance | Type | Severity | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs) | minor | NMN may modestly lower blood pressure through improved endothelial function and NAD+-dependent vasodilation. When combined with antihypertensive medications, blood pressure should be monitored to avoid excessive reduction. |
Sources
Related Supplements
Hormone Precursor
Melatonin
A hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles, commonly supplemented for sleep disorders and jet lag.
Strong Evidence
Fatty Acid
Omega-3 Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids — specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — are polyunsaturated fats that the human body cannot synthesize de novo. They must be obtained from dietary sources, primarily fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies), shellfish, and marine algae. EPA and DHA serve as structural components of cell membranes throughout the body, with particularly high concentrations in the brain (DHA comprises roughly 40% of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the brain) and retina. Beyond structural roles, they are precursors to specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) — resolvins, protectins, and maresins — that actively resolve inflammation rather than simply suppressing it. The evidence base for omega-3 supplementation is extensive. Large-scale trials and meta-analyses support benefits for cardiovascular health (triglyceride reduction, modest blood pressure lowering), inflammatory conditions, mood disorders, and cognitive maintenance. The American Heart Association recommends at least two servings of fatty fish per week, and higher-dose EPA supplementation has been shown to reduce cardiovascular events in the REDUCE-IT trial.
Strong Evidence
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication regimen.