Introduction NMN vs NR
We get as longevity and supplement specialist at Skins Unlimited frequently asked what is better? NMN, NR or NAD supplements? In this article we explain what is best for optimal health!
Want to slow down your biological clock, boost your mitochondria, and rejuvenate at a cellular level? Then understanding NAD⁺ optimization is essential. In this article, we explain the differences between NMN powder en NR supplements, we discuss the impact of age on NAD⁺ levels, and show how clever combinations with TMG, apigenin, urolithin A, and fisetin can take your stack to the next level. Perfect for those who want to get the most out of longevity and wants to obtain cellular energy.
What is NAD⁺ and why do you want more of it?
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all your cells. Without NAD⁺ there is no energy production, no DNA repair and no properly functioning brain. It is essential for:
The creation of ATP (cell energy)
Activating sirtuins, also called the “longevity-genes”
Repairing damage to DNA and cells
How Mitochondria, Your Internal Power Plants, Work
As we age, NAD⁺ production declines. Chronic stress, poor sleep, alcohol, and aging accelerate this process. The result? Less energy, faster aging skin, decreased muscle strength, and even cognitive decline.
That's why more and more people are interested in ways to get NAD⁺ levels back up – and that can be done with precursors such as NMN and NR.
Healthy aging is what everyone wants. More and more people are looking for ways to not only live longer, but above all to stay vital and sharp. In this search, three abbreviations often appear: NAD⁺, NMN and NR. But what exactly do they mean, and what can you do with them?
Briefly: NAD⁺ is a substance that literally every part of your body needs to function properly. Your energy levels, skin aging, memory, muscle strength and even your sleep quality are affected by how much NAD⁺ is present in your cells.
But there’s a problem: from the age of 30 onwards, your NAD⁺ levels continue to decline each year. By age 50, you could have up to 50% less NAD⁺ than you did in your youth. Fortunately, there are ways to replenish this valuable substance – and that’s where NMN and NR come into view.
📊 Summary:
| Age | Estimated NAD⁺ loss (%) vs. youth | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 30+ | -10% to -20% | Start of decline |
| 40+ | -20% to -35% | Acceleration |
| 50+ | -35% to -60% | Noticeable impact on energy |
| 60+ | -60% or more | Associated with diseases of aging |
💡 Note: The exact percentages vary by tissue (muscle, brain, liver) and person, but the trend is clearly decreasing from 30 years.
Energy, aging and NAD+
Healthy aging is hot. More and more people are looking for ways to not only live longer, but above all to stay vital and sharp. In this search, three abbreviations often appear: NAD⁺, NMN and NR. But what exactly do they mean, and what can you do with them?
Briefly: NAD⁺ is a substance that literally every part of your body needs to function properly. Your energy levels, skin aging, memory, muscle strength and even your sleep quality are affected by how much NAD⁺ is present in your cells.
But there’s a problem: from the age of 30 onwards, your NAD⁺ levels continue to decline each year. By age 50, you could have up to 50% less NAD⁺ than you did in your youth. Fortunately, there are ways to replenish this valuable substance – and that’s where NMN and NR come into view.
What is NR (nicotinamide riboside)?
NR is a form of vitamin B3 that is converted in the body to NMN, and then to NAD⁺. This indirect route has been extensively studied and found safe in dozens of human studies.
Advantages of NR:
Increases NAD⁺ with consistent use
Can contribute to more energy en better fat metabolism
Has clinically proven effects on metabolic health
There has been a lot of clinical research into NR, with positive effects on muscle function, cell health and endurance, among other things.
What is NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)?
NMN is a direct precursor to NAD⁺. Unlike NR, NMN does not need to be converted to NAD⁺. As a result, it often works faster and more efficiently – especially when administered sublingually or liposomally.
Benefits of NMN:
Fast recording, especially under the tongue
Supports focus, energy, memory and recovery
Interesting for people over 40 or with reduced vitality
More and more human studies with promising results
NMN vs NR – what are the differences?
| Characteristic | NMN | NR |
|---|---|---|
| Biochemical path | Direct precursor of NAD⁺ | First converted to NMN |
| Recording efficiency | High, especially sublingual or liposomal | Good, but less efficient |
| Research | Emerging, strong animal studies, growing human | More human studies |
| Pricing | A little more expensive | More affordable |
| Target audience | 40+, athletes, biohackers | Starters, general vitality |
Longevityexpert Dr. David Sinclair uses NMN daily myself in combination with other supporting supplements
“I take NMN every morning because I believe it's one of the most powerful molecules for boosting NAD⁺ and protecting against age-related decline.”
–Dr. David Sinclair, Joe Rogan Podcast (#1234)
Curious which scientists and doctors use and recommend NMN?
Find out why here Longevity experts such as Andrew Huberman en Andrea Maier Recommend NMN.
Their insights are factual, inspiring and based on the latest science.
Why not pure NAD⁺ supplements?
There are supplements with “pure NAD⁺”, but they are biologically not very effective.
NAD⁺ is poorly absorbed through the intestines, because it is a large and unstable molecule.
Most of it is broken down in the gastrointestinal tract before it reaches your cells.
Exceptions:
IV NAD⁺ (infusion) in clinics → effective, but expensive and time-consuming
Nasal Sprays with NAD⁺ → better absorption, but little research yet
That's why most experts choose precursors such as NMN and NR, which are well absorbed and stimulate your body to produce NAD⁺ itself.
Other Supplements That Support NAD⁺
In addition to NMN and NR, there are powerful substances that inhibit the breakdown of NAD⁺, enhance the effect, or support the mitochondria:
🔸 Urolithin A
Originating from pomegranate
Stimulates mitophagy (clearance of damaged mitochondria)
Improves muscle function and energy production
Works complementary to NAD⁺ supplementation
🔸 TMG (trimethylglycine)
Supports the methylation at NAD⁺ recycling
Definitely recommended for long-term use of NMN or NR
🔸 Apigenin
Inhibits the enzyme CD38, which breaks down NAD⁺
Helps keep NAD⁺ available longer
Naturally found in parsley, celery and chamomile
🔸 Fisetin
Senolytics: clean up senescent cells that waste NAD⁺
Promote younger working cells
🔸 Resveratrol & pterostilbene
Activates sirtuins, which require NAD⁺ to function
Synergistic with NMN and NR (widely used by biohackers)
Note: Sirtuin activation uses up NAD⁺, so combining is recommended
Smart NAD⁺ stack – how to combine it optimally
A powerful combination for those who really want to invest in vitality:
NMN or NR – as a primary NAD⁺ booster
Apigenin – prevents breakdown
Urolithin A – for mitochondrial health
Resveratrol / pterostilbene – activates sirtuins
TMG – supports methylation and balance
Preferably take your stack in the morning on an empty stomach. Combine with healthy diet, good sleep and exercise for maximum results.
Frequently Asked Questions NMN vs NR and NAD
What is the difference between NMN and NR?
NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is one step closer to NAD⁺ than NR (nicotinamide riboside), making it more readily available to the body.
Which works faster: NMN or NR?
Many users notice faster effects from NMN, especially on energy and focus, but NR is also effective — response varies from person to person.
Which has more scientific studies?
NR has more clinical studies in humans, while NMN shows promise in animal models and is rapidly gaining ground.
Is NMN more expensive than NR?
Yes, NMN is generally more expensive, especially when it comes to pure, stabilized forms.
Which one is absorbed best?
NMN appears to be slightly better absorbed in the small intestine, especially when taken sublingually or in powder form.
What do most people use? biohackers?
Biohackers often choose NMN, because of the direct route to NAD⁺ and the combination with cofactors such as TMG and Apigenin.
Can I use NMN and NR together?
Yes, but that is usually not necessary. Choose one and rather focus on synergy with supporters such as Urolithin A or Fisetin.
Which is better for long term use?
Both are safe for long-term use, but NMN is more popular for daily optimization, NR sometimes as a budget-friendly alternative.
Which is better for sports performance?
NMN appears to score slightly better on muscle function and endurance in studies, but NR also has positive effects.
What should I choose as a beginner?
Start with NMN if you are focused on energy, focus and anti-aging.
What is NAD⁺ anyway?
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme essential for energy production, cell repair and aging processes.
Why does NAD⁺ decline with age?
From the age of 30, NAD⁺ production decreases and breakdown increases, partly due to the enzyme CD38 and oxidative stress.
How do NMN and NR help increase my NAD⁺?
NMN and NR are precursors to NAD⁺ and supplement its natural decline by stimulating production through different pathways.
Is NAD⁺ the same as vitamin B3?
NAD⁺ is partly made from forms of B3, but it is not a vitamin itself; it is an active cofactor in your cells.
How do I know if my NAD⁺ is low?
You often feel this in terms of reduced energy, slow recovery, brain fog or faster aging - although this is not always measurable.
Can I also take NAD⁺ directly?
No, NAD⁺ itself is not well absorbed via the intestines. That is why you use NMN or NR as a precursor.
What is the difference in route between NR and NMN to NAD⁺?
NR must first be converted to NMN before it can become NAD⁺, while NMN can enter production directly.
Why are cofactors important in NMN or NR?
Without support (such as TMG or Apigenin), NAD⁺ synthesis may be less efficient or methyls may become depleted.
Conclusion: choose your NAD⁺ strategy consciously
Do you want to slow down aging, increase your energy or just get the best out of yourself? Then NMN and NR powerful tools that help your body restore NAD⁺ levels. Combine this with smart cofactors like Urolithin A, apigenin or TMG, and you have a strong foundation for healthy aging.
It's not about one powder – it's about the right stack, timing, consistency and a healthy lifestyle.
Questions? Contact us via the contact button and you will receive a quick answer to your questions from the longevity experts of Skins Unlimited
