Global Wellness Digest

What is NMN? Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a molecule naturally occurring in our bodies and some foods, known primarily as a precursor to NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). NAD⁺ is a vital coenzyme for cellular energy production and DNA repair, but NAD⁺ levels decline with age. By middle age, NAD⁺ is roughly half of youthful levels, potentially contributing to aging-related metabolic and tissue dysfunction. NMN supplementation aims to restore NAD⁺ levels and thereby support cellular health and longevity pathways.

Global Preclinical and Animal Studies

Researchers worldwide have investigated NMN in laboratory animals, and the results have been striking. In 2013, a landmark Harvard-led study showed that short-term NMN treatment in old mice essentially “rejuvenated” certain aspects of muscle biology. Just one week of NMN boosted muscle cells’ energy production so much that it was comparable to making a 60-year-old’s muscle metabolism resemble that of a 20-year-old. This occurred by restoring communication between cell nuclei and mitochondria, the cell’s energy centers. Such findings suggested that age-related mitochondrial dysfunction could be reversible.

Subsequent long-term studies reinforced these anti-aging benefits. A 12-month NMN administration study (supported by the National Institutes of Health) found no toxicity and multiple health improvements in normal aging mice. The NMN-treated mice gained less age-related weight, had enhanced energy metabolism and physical activity, improved insulin sensitivity, healthier blood lipid levels, and even better eye function than untreated mice. At the cellular level, NMN prevented age-related gene expression changes and improved mitochondrial function in muscle, highlighting NMN’s broad potential to mitigate age-associated physiological decline.

Dr. David Sinclair’s Harvard team has reported dramatic vascular and muscular benefits. In one study, old mice (~20 months, similar to 70-year-old humans) were given NMN for 8 weeks. NMN restored their muscle blood vessel density to youthful levels and increased the old mice’s endurance by 56–80% compared to untreated controls. The NMN-treated elderly mice could run ~430 meters on average versus 240 meters for untreated ones of the same age. Sinclair described this effect as “exercise in a pill,” since NMN activated the NAD⁺-SIRT1 pathway that normally mediates exercise benefits. His team also showed that NMN treatment did not increase cancer risk in mice, alleviating some safety concerns.

At the Mayo Clinic, researchers have focused on why NAD⁺ declines with age and how boosting NAD⁺ impacts age-related diseases. In 2016, Mayo scientists identified the enzyme CD38 (found in inflammatory immune cells) as a major culprit that drains NAD⁺ during aging. They observed CD38 levels climb 2-3 fold in tissues of old mice and humans, corresponding to NAD⁺ loss. Mayo’s Dr. Eduardo Chini noted that inhibiting CD38 could thus raise NAD⁺ levels in aging bodies. This discovery has spurred development of CD38 inhibitors as an alternative or complement to NAD⁺ precursors like NMN. Additionally, a Mayo Clinic study in 2021 showed that raising NAD⁺ with NMN can protect nerve cells: in mice fed a high-fat diet (which damages the insulating myelin on nerves), supplementing NMN prevented the loss of myelin-producing cells and actually promoted repair of the nerve coating. These neuroprotective effects hint that NAD⁺ boosters might help combat conditions like multiple sclerosis or diabetes-related nerve damage.

Human Trials and Clinical Evidence

While animal data are very promising, what about humans? Initial clinical studies suggest NMN is safe and can provide metabolic and functional benefits, though research is ongoing. A pioneering trial in 2021 (Washington University in St. Louis, with NIH support) tested NMN in women with prediabetes. After 10 weeks of 250 mg/day NMN, the women had significant improvements in muscle insulin sensitivity and insulin signaling compared to placebo. Muscle biopsies showed enhanced expression of genes involved in muscle structure and remodeling. In short, NMN made their muscles respond to insulin more like those of metabolically healthy people. This was the first direct evidence that NMN could improve glucose metabolism in humans, aligning with the earlier mouse studies that showed NMN combats age-related insulin resistance.

In 2022–2023, researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) led a larger randomized controlled trial to examine NMN’s effects in healthy middle-aged adults. In this 60-day trial with 80 participants (ages ~40–60), daily NMN (300, 600, or 900 mg) significantly raised blood NAD⁺ levels by day 30, with the 600–900 mg doses achieving the highest NAD⁺ increases. Importantly, the NMN groups showed functional gains: their 6-minute walking distance improved significantly (at all doses) versus placebo. In other words, NMN modestly boosted physical performance/endurance in middle-aged adults. Researchers also noted an intriguing difference in “biological age” indicators – after 60 days, the placebo group’s estimated biological age had increased, whereas NMN-treated groups saw no age increase, effectively preserving their biological age over the trial period. Participants reported slight improvements in general health and vitality scores as well. No safety issues were observed up to the highest dose (900 mg), confirming NMN was well-tolerated in humans.

Other human studies echo these benefits. A trial in Japan found that 12 weeks of NMN (250 mg/day) in older adults improved their gait speed and even sleep quality, relative to placebo. Blood NAD⁺ levels rose in the NMN group, and faster walking speeds correlated with the degree of NAD⁺ increase. Notably, participants taking NMN reported better sleep (lower scores on sleep-quality indices for dysfunction), suggesting a potential boost in restorative sleep in aging individuals. Additionally, a small study in China showed that amateur runners taking NMN (300–1200 mg) for 6 weeks had improved aerobic capacity (higher oxygen uptake and endurance thresholds) compared to runners on placebo. This points to NMN’s ability to enhance exercise performance, likely by improving muscle oxygen utilization and energy metabolism.

Overall, the body of evidence (in cells, animals, and now humans) indicates that NMN can safely boost NAD⁺ and positively affect metabolism, exercise endurance, insulin function, blood vessel health, and even possibly neurological health. Experts caution that large, long-term human trials are still needed, but the early results are encouraging. As Harvard’s Dr. Sinclair has hinted, NMN might even have lifespan-extending effects – he recently revealed unpublished data that NMN supplementation extended the lifespan of mice, along with reducing frailty and increasing resistance to radiation. While we await peer-reviewed publication of those results, many groups worldwide (including NIH’s National Institute on Aging) are actively studying NMN and other NAD⁺ boosters in the context of aging, chronic diseases, and overall longevity science.

NUS Medicine (Singapore) has also scrutinized the quality of NMN products on the market. A 2024 NUS study tested 18 NMN supplement brands and found significant discrepancies between labeled and actual NMN content in many products. A few supplements contained no detectable NMN at all, while others had up to 11% more NMN than stated (or up to 100% less in the worst cases). This variability underscores the importance of choosing high-quality NMN supplements from reputable manufacturers (discussed below). Fortunately, NMN itself has shown a good safety profile in human trials so far, with no serious adverse effects reported at doses up to at least 900 mg daily. Consumers should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals if needed, but the current data suggest NMN can be an effective nutraceutical for supporting healthy aging.

Where to Buy NMN Supplements in selected markets

As NMN’s popularity has grown, it has become more widely available through both online and brick-and-mortar outlets. Below we highlight where consumers can find reputable NMNsupplements in different regions, and note some brands carried in each market. (When purchasing, remember the NUS finding above – quality can vary, so buy from trusted brands that provide purity testing.)

United States

In the USA, NMN supplements are sold by numerous nutraceutical companies and can be purchased online or in stores. There is a vibrant market of NAD⁺ booster products targeted at wellness and anti-aging consumers. Major online retailers like Amazon carry many NMN brands (e.g. Nutricost, Toniiq, Double Wood, etc.), and specialized anti-aging companies sell directly via their websites. For example, Wonderfeel (Youngr™ NMN), Omre, PartiQlar, Nutricost, and Genuine Purity are some brands highlighted as top-quality in 2025 rankings. These companies often provide third-party lab testing to verify NMN purity. Prices in the U.S. have been dropping as more manufacturers enter the space, making NMN more affordable than a few years ago.

Physical retail options exist as well. GNC, a nationwide supplement retailer, introduced its own Preventive Nutrition® NMN 150 mg capsules in stores. Other vitamin store chains and pharmacies may stock NMN or NAD⁺ booster formulas in their anti-aging or longevity sections. It’s worth noting that the regulatory status of NMN in the U.S. has been under debate – the FDA indicated in late 2022 that NMN might be classified as a drug (due to ongoing drug trials) rather than a dietary supplement. As of 2025, however, NMN supplements continue to be legally sold and commonly found through supplement outlets (the Natural Products Association even filed a petition to keep NMN available as a supplement). U.S. consumers can thus obtain NMN fairly easily, but should stick to well-reviewed products. Popular choices include capsule forms (often 125–500 mg per capsule) and sublingual powders; some products pair NMN with synergists like resveratrol or TMG (trimethylglycine) for added benefit.

Singapore

Singapore has embraced the longevity supplement trend, and NMN supplements are available through both retail pharmacies and online shopping platforms. Major pharmacy chains like Watsons and Guardian carry NMN products on their shelves. For instance, Watsons Singapore lists GreenLife’s NMN Boost Cell Vitality capsules as an anti-aging supplement, and also stocks Labo Nutrition’s “Le Ageless NMN+” (a locally marketed NAD+ booster blend). Guardian Singapore similarly offers NMN capsules such as NJHealth NMN 20,000 mg (high-strength formula) in its online catalog. These products are typically found in the vitamins/supplements aisle alongside other anti-aging or metabolic health supplements.

In addition to brick-and-mortar stores, Singaporean consumers often shop for NMN online via e-commerce. Lazada and Shopee, the region’s popular online marketplaces, have multiple sellers offering NMN supplements – including global brands and local distributors. Niche anti-aging brands (like ForYouth, Xandro Lab, etc.) specifically target Singapore’s market; for example, a 2025 guide listed “The Repair – NMN+” by ForYouth as a top choice in Singapore, which contains Uthever® NMN (a branded form of high-purity NMN). It’s also possible to order from international sites (e.g. iHerb or Amazon US) which ship to Singapore, though buyers should check import regulations. Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority has not banned NMN, so importing small quantities for personal use is generally permitted. Prices in Singapore may be slightly higher due to import costs, but the convenience of local retail options makes up for it. Consumers in Singapore should look for trusted brands sold by established pharmacies or reputable online sellers to ensure product authenticity and proper storage (important in a tropical climate).

Malaysia

In Malaysia, NMN supplements can be found in many of the same channels as in Singapore. The pharmacy chain Watsons Malaysia advertises several NMN-containing products. For example, Watsons sells MegaLive’s Lavie NMN 30s (which combines NMN with other antioxidants) as well as Yuka Zan NMN Plus 30s sachets (formulated with Uthever® NMN and berry extracts). Some NMN products in Malaysia are positioned as beauty or vitality supplements – an example is Surya’s Zeleb+ NMN drink, marketed for skin health, which is available exclusively at Watsons stores according to company promotions. This indicates the retail presence of NMN in Malaysia is growing, often tied to the beauty and wellness segment.

Beyond Watsons, other pharmacies like Guardian or independent health stores may stock NMN, though availability can vary by location. Many Malaysians turn to online avenues to purchase NMN. Lazada and Shopee have Malaysian sellers for NMN capsules and powders, and one can also order via iHerb (which ships to Malaysia) for international brands. As of 2025, NMN is not classified as a controlled substance in Malaysia, so individuals can legally buy it for personal use. However, it’s wise to purchase from well-known retailers to avoid counterfeit or sub-potent products. Local supplement brands in Malaysia are starting to introduce NMN in their product lines (sometimes blended with herbal extracts or vitamins). Always check that the product label clearly states the NMN content per serving; the NUS study mentioned earlier found a few products in the region with negligible NMN despite bold claims. Choosing brands that provide a certificate of analysis for their NMN content is recommended.

Australia

Australia has a strong vitamins and supplements market, and while NMN is available, consumers often obtain it via online channels or import due to regulatory nuances. In 2025, NMN is not yet approved as a “therapeutic good” by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), which means it isn’t formally registered as a medicine. However, Australians can legally import NMN for personal use, and many do so under the Personal Importation Scheme. According to Australian supplement experts, NMN can be purchased through pharmacies, health stores, and reputable online retailers in Australia – as long as one chooses products that meet quality standards. In practice, a lot of NMN buying in Australia happens online:

• Australian supplement companies: A few local firms sell NMN directly. For example, Bulk Nutrients (an Australia-based manufacturer) offers a pure NMN powder and bills it as “Australia’s #1 NMN supplement”. Similarly, brands like MyBrainCo and Eternum Labs advertise high-purity NMN capsules to Australian customers, often with third-party lab tests.
• Global retailers: The Australian versions of Amazon and iHerb list NMN products. iHerb’s Australia site highlights that NMN can support energy, metabolism, and even cites improvements in eye function and insulin sensitivity. Many popular US brands (e.g. Wonderfeel, ProHealth, DoNotAge) can ship to Australia, and some have local distributors or warehouses for faster delivery.
• Compounding pharmacies: In some cases, anti-aging or integrative medicine clinics in Australia might source NMN for patients. But for the general consumer, it’s simpler to buy it as a supplement online.

Australian buyers should be aware of customs limits (typically importing a 3-month supply is acceptable). Prices can be higher due to shipping and the smaller market size, but bulk purchasing or local suppliers like Bulk Nutrients help reduce cost. Bioglan (Australia), a well-known supplement brand, has published consumer guidance on NMN and implies that one should “always choose products that meet regulatory and quality standards” This means looking for GMP-certified manufacturing and purity assurances. To date, there have been no major safety alarms for NMN in Australia, and the interest in NAD⁺ boosters is growing as longevity science gains mainstream attention.

In summary, NMN has moved from the lab bench to the wellness marketplace in the span of a decade. Research from Harvard, Mayo Clinic, NIH, NUS Singapore and others has illuminated why boosting NAD⁺ with NMN is beneficial – from slowing aging processes in mice to improving metabolism and endurance in humans. While scientists continue to study long-term effects (and debate regulatory status), consumer access to NMN supplements is already a reality in the US, Asia, and Australia. Those seeking NMN should do their due diligence to find high-quality products but can take encouragement from the accumulating evidence that NMN is a promising tool for supporting healthy aging at the cellular level. As Dr. David Sinclair said, “Many aspects of aging may be reversible if caught early” – NMN and NAD⁺ restoration are at the forefront of that hopeful new frontier.