The quest for eternal youth is as old as time itself, and in the modern era, it's taking a new form: the rise of anti-ageing supplements. Among the most talked-about compounds are NMN, NAD+, and resveratrol, each touted for their potential to slow the ageing process by targeting cellular functions. But are these supplements the real deal, or just another fad? Let's dive into the science and separate fact from fiction.
The NAD+ Connection
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that plays a pivotal role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular stress responses. As we age, NAD+ levels tend to decline, which is linked to reduced mitochondrial function and other age-related changes. This has sparked interest in NAD+ as a potential anti-ageing target.
Topical NAD+?
You can find NAD+ in skincare products like creams and serums, but the evidence for its effectiveness is still very thin. While NAD+ is crucial for skin-cell energy and repair, it's unclear if topical application can penetrate the skin in sufficient amounts to have a noticeable anti-ageing effect. Established ingredients like sunscreen and retinoids have more concrete benefits in this regard.
NAD+ Precursors: NMN and NR
Since NAD+ itself is not easily absorbed when swallowed, researchers have turned to its precursors: NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) and NR (Nicotinamide Riboside). In animal studies, these compounds have shown promise, improving energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and physical function. However, translating these findings to humans has been challenging.
Human clinical trials suggest that NMN and NR can increase NAD+ levels in blood and tissues, but the evidence for significant effects in specific tissues is still limited. Some small studies have reported metabolic benefits, but larger, long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Resveratrol: The Polyphenol
Resveratrol, found in red grapes, berries, and peanuts, is another anti-ageing compound. Unlike NMN and NR, it's not an NAD+ precursor. Instead, it belongs to a class of plant chemicals called polyphenols, known for their antioxidant properties.
In laboratory and animal studies, resveratrol has shown potential in reducing inflammation and improving mitochondrial function. However, it has poor oral bioavailability, meaning only a small fraction of what you swallow reaches the tissues in the form needed for these effects. Human trials have not yet provided conclusive evidence that resveratrol slows ageing, and its cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits remain uncertain.
The Bottom Line
While the idea of supplements that can slow ageing is enticing, the reality is more nuanced. NAD+, NMN, and resveratrol are not biologically implausible; they target real cellular processes. However, the leap from affecting a pathway to slowing ageing in a person is significant.
The evidence for these supplements' effectiveness is limited, and major questions remain about long-term safety, optimal dosages, and who is most likely to benefit. For now, the best-supported ways to promote healthy ageing are tried and true: regular exercise, quality sleep, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic conditions. Supplements may have a role to play in the future, but for now, they are not the panacea some marketers would have you believe.
