Once ingested, NMN is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and transported into cells through a specialized transporter called SLC12A8. Inside the cells, it is directly converted into NAD+, challenging the earlier assumption that NMN must first transform into NR before cellular uptake. This breakthrough, published in Nature Metabolism (2019) by Dr. Shin-ichiro Imai’s team, highlighted the efficiency of NMN absorption. These transporters are particularly active in tissues with high NAD+ demands, such as the brain, muscles, and liver.

The recommended dose for MountSpirit NMN is 500 mg per day (one capsule), taken in the morning with water.

Study Evidence:

A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition demonstrated that 250 mg of NMN nearly doubled NAD+ levels in humans over 12 weeks. NAD+ levels returned to baseline within 4 weeks after stopping supplementation.

Another study observed significant NAD+ increases with daily doses of 300 mg, 600 mg, and 900 mg. Improvements in muscle endurance (measured by a 6-minute walking test) with those at higher dosages walking further. As well as perceived health was greater at higher doses at 30 days compared to 300mg dosage. 

This evidence suggests consistent NMN use at 600 mg/day for 30–60 days may yield measurable benefits.

“The Molecule of Life”

NAD+ is a vital molecule found in every cell. It plays critical roles in:

1. Energy Production: NAD+ fuels the mitochondria to generate ATP, the energy currency of cells.

2. DNA Repair: NAD+ activates sirtuins and PARPs, enzymes that repair DNA damage caused by aging and stress.

3. Cellular Health: NAD+ regulates inflammation, metabolic efficiency, and immune function.

By age 50, NAD+ levels decline to about 50% of their youthful peak, leading to fatigue, slower recovery, and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. Restoring NAD+ levels can help combat these effects, promoting vitality and long-term health.

NAD+ is too large to cross cell membranes efficiently. In contrast, NMN is smaller and can be directly transported into cells, making it a more effective precursor for boosting NAD+ levels.

NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) serves as a precursor to NMN but must first undergo phosphorylation to convert into NMN before being transformed into NAD+. By taking NMN directly, you bypass this extra step, enabling faster and more efficient NAD+ production.

Studies have shown that NMN has an excellent safety profile, with doses up to 1,200 mg per day reporting no significant side effects.

Methylation Considerations:

High doses of NMN may theoretically strain the body's methyl pool, which is used to metabolize NMN. However, this has not been observed at standard doses like 500 mg/day.

Supporting Methylation:

To support methylation, consider:

• Supplementing with Vitamin B9 (folate), B12, or TMG (Trimethylglycine).
• Eating methyl-donor-rich foods such as egg yolks, which are high in choline.

Aging causes DNA damage and disrupts cellular identity due to epigenetic changes. This dysfunction can lead to the formation of senescent cells—damaged cells that stop dividing but release harmful inflammatory signals. Sirtuins, enzymes activated by NAD+, play a crucial role in DNA repair and maintaining cellular identity, helping to prevent the buildup of senescent cells linked to age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease.