Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a compound that has garnered considerable attention for its potential health benefits. This molecule is being investigated for its influence on various physiological processes, including its possible effects on blood pressure regulation. This article explores the current understanding of NMN and its relationship with blood pressure.
Understanding Nicotinamide Mononucleotide
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a naturally occurring molecule found in foods like broccoli, avocado, and edamame. It acts as a direct precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme present in every human cell. NAD+ is essential for numerous biological activities, including converting nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency cells use.
NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, a reduction associated with various age-related health concerns. Maintaining adequate NAD+ levels supports cellular function, DNA repair, and overall metabolic health. NMN supplementation aims to increase NAD+ levels, thereby supporting these cellular processes.
How NMN May Influence Blood Pressure
NMN’s potential influence on blood pressure stems from its role in boosting NAD+ levels, which affects several cellular mechanisms. One mechanism involves improved endothelial function. Endothelial cells line blood vessels and regulate vascular tone and blood flow. In hypertension, these cells often exhibit dysfunction, contributing to increased blood pressure.
NAD+ is involved in producing nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that signals blood vessels to relax and widen (vasodilation). Higher NAD+ levels, supported by NMN, may increase NO production, promoting vasodilation and potentially reducing blood pressure. NAD+ is also a cofactor for sirtuins, proteins that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, factors contributing to vascular damage and elevated blood pressure.
For instance, in hypertensive patients, increased levels of the NAD+ consuming enzyme CD38 have been observed in endothelial cells, leading to lower NAD+ levels. By increasing NAD+, NMN may counteract CD38’s effects, improving vascular function.
Scientific Evidence on NMN and Blood Pressure
Scientific research on NMN supplementation and blood pressure shows promising, though evolving, results. Animal studies indicate that boosting NAD+ levels with NMN can improve vascular health and protect against hypertension. For instance, mouse models have shown NMN can reverse vascular dysfunction and reduce arterial stiffness by decreasing oxidative stress.
Human clinical trials are also exploring these effects. One study in hypertensive individuals found that 800 mg of oral NMN daily for six weeks significantly lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic pressure decreased by an average of 6.11 mmHg and diastolic by 3.56 mmHg, showing improvement over lifestyle modifications alone.
Another study in overweight or obese middle-aged and older adults showed that 1,000 mg of NMN twice daily for 28 days significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure. While encouraging, some studies note the effect on systolic blood pressure was not always statistically significant. The research suggests NMN may benefit blood pressure, especially in individuals with existing hypertension, but larger, longer-term studies are needed to confirm these findings and understand NMN’s full effects.
Important Considerations for NMN Supplementation
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is categorized as a dietary supplement, not a pharmaceutical drug, meaning its regulation differs from prescription medications. While NMN has shown a favorable safety profile in human studies, it is prudent to approach supplementation with caution.
Clinical trials report NMN supplementation is well-tolerated, with adverse events typically mild or moderate. Doses from 250 mg to 1,200 mg per day have been investigated, with no severe adverse events reported even at 2,000 mg daily for short durations. Despite these safety observations, individuals, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension, should consult a healthcare professional before initiating NMN supplementation. This assesses individual health needs and potential interactions with other medications or conditions.