What is NMN?
NMN stands for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, which is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a molecule involved in various biological processes, including energy metabolism and DNA repair. NMN supplements have gained attention for their potential anti-ageing effects, as NAD+ levels tend to decline with age. However, while there is some promising research on NMN, more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety in humans.
NMN supplements started gaining attention within the past decade. While NMN itself has been studied for its potential health benefits for longer, it has only become widely available as a dietary supplement more recently. The exact date of its introduction to the general public for sale may vary depending on the region and the specific companies producing and marketing NMN supplements. However, it's important to note that the use of NMN as a dietary supplement is still relatively new. Hence, the importance to reiterate that more human study still needs to be done to evaluate its long term effects and safety profiles.
While many potential benefits of NMN supplementation have been claimed, there has been some research suggesting that NMN supplementation might promote cancer growth in certain contexts. NMN is involved in cellular processes related to energy metabolism and DNA repair, which are also important for cancer cell growth and survival. However, the relationship between NMN and cancer is complex and not fully understood as yet. More research is needed to determine the potential risks and benefits of NMN supplementation, especially in individuals with a history of cancer or at risk for cancer development.
There are also several clinician scientists who are researching on how to inhibit the body’s natural production of NMN to see if this may be an effective way of controlling cancer in the body.
Molecular Structure of NMN
(Image from https://www.nmn.com/what-is-nmn)
What evidence is there of the link between NMN and cancer?
There have been some studies suggesting a potential link between NMN and cancer growth. For example, a study published in "Cell Metabolism" in 2018 found that NMN supplementation promoted tumor growth in mice with lung cancer by enhancing the activity of a protein called SIRT1, which is involved in regulating cellular processes related to metabolism and ageing. However, it's important to note that this study was conducted in mice, and further research is needed to determine if similar effects occur in humans. Additionally, other studies have reported conflicting results, so the relationship between NMN and cancer is still an area of active investigation in the scientific community.
For another example, you can also read this report: https://siteman.wustl.edu/pathway-linked-slower-aging-also-fuels-brain-cancer/that have shown that while NAD/NMN can help to slow down the ageing process, it can also make tumors grow faster.
Is NMN banned in any country?
In 2022, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) restricted the sale of NMN in dietary supplements and the European Union followed suit by 2023. Hence, it has become very difficult to get NMN supplements from the open shelf in the US and EU countries.
Their reason is mainly due to the submission of a company to market NMN as a drug.
So much so that Amazon was even issued a letter from the FDA and EU to stop the sale of NMN supplements across their online retail platforms.
The safety of NMN and NAD+ supplements is still being researched due to their recent introduction. While generally considered safe at recommended doses, long-term data on safety and efficacy in humans is limited. Additionally, individual factors such as existing health conditions, medications, and other supplements being taken can influence how safe and effective NMN and NAD+ supplements are for an individual.
Hence, before you start getting excited by all the hype and amazing marketing articles you have read, it may be prudent for us to take a step back, paused and think about how long will this miracle elixir last before things (if any) start unravelling?
Perhaps, it may be a good idea to tread warily and wait till this compound is more carefully researched and understood, and how it may affect our health in the long run before embarking on it. Since there are always other safe and effective products already available in the market for those of us who would want to take a proactive approach to maintaining our youth and vigour.
Finally, do remember that its always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health concerns or are taking medications.
Warm regards,
Rosemary