Introduction NMN vs NR
As a longevity and supplement specialist at Skins Unlimited, we are regularly asked what is better? NMN, NR or NAD supplements? In this article we explain what is best for optimal health!
Do you want to slow down your biological clock, boost your mitochondria and rejuvenate at a cellular level? Then insight into NAD⁺ optimization is indispensable. In this article we explain the differences between NMN powder and NR supplements, we discuss the impact of age on NAD⁺ levels, and show how smart combinations with TMG, apigenin, urolithin A and fisetin take your stack to the next level. Perfect for those who want to get the most out of longevity and cellular energy.
What is NAD⁺ and why do you want more of it?
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide ad and ine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that occurs in all your cells. Without NAD⁺ there is no energy production, no DNA repair and no properly functioning brain. It is essential for:
Creating ATP (cell energy)
Activating sirtuins, also called the “longevity genes”.
Repairing damage to DNA and cells
The functioning of mitochondria, your internal power plants
As we age, the production of NAD⁺ decreases. Chronic stress, poor sleep, alcohol and aging accelerate this process. The result? Less energy, faster aging skin, declining muscle strength and even cognitive decline.
That's why more and more people are interested in ways to get their NAD⁺ levels back up – and this can be done with precursor substances such as NMN and NR.
Healthy aging is what everyone wants. More and more people are looking for ways to not only stay longer, but above all stay vital and sharp. In that search, three abbreviations often appear: NAD⁺, NMN and NR. But what exactly do they mean, and what can you do with them?
In short: NAD⁺ is a substance that literally every part of your body needs to function properly. Your energy level, 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, your NAD⁺ level continues to decrease every year. Around the age of 50 you can have up to 50% less NAD⁺ than in your youth. Fortunately, there are ways to replenish this valuable substance – and that's true NMN and NR come into the picture.
📊 In summary:
| Age | Estimated loss of NAD⁺ (%) compared to youth | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 30+ | -10% to -20% | Begin descent |
| 40+ | -20% to -35% | Acceleration |
| 50+ | -35% to -60% | Noticeable impact on energy |
| 60+ | -60% or more | Associated with diseases of aging |
💡NB: The exact percentages vary per tissue (muscle, brain, liver) and person, but the trend is clearly decreasing from age 30 onwards.
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 that search, three abbreviations often appear: NAD⁺, NMN and NR. But what exactly do they mean, and what can you do with them?
In short: NAD⁺ is a substance that literally every part of your body needs to function properly. Your energy level, 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, your NAD⁺ level continues to decrease every year. Around the age of 50 you can have up to 50% less NAD⁺ than in your youth. Fortunately, there are ways to replenish this valuable substance – and that's true NMN and NR come into the picture.
What is NR (nicotinamide riboside)?
NO is a form of vitamin B3 that is converted in the body into NMN, and then into NAD⁺. This indirect route has been extensively researched and found safe in dozens of human studies.
Advantages of NR:
Increases NAD⁺ with consistent use
Can contribute to more energy and better fat metabolism
Has clinically proven effects on metabolic health
Much clinical research has been conducted on NR, with positive effects on muscle function, cell health and endurance, among other things.
What is NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)?
NMN is a direct predecessor of NAD⁺. Unlike NR, NMN no longer needs to be converted before being changed to NAD⁺. This often makes it work faster and more efficiently – especially when administered sublingually or liposomally.
Advantages of NMN:
Fast absorption, 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?
| Feature | NMN | NO |
|---|---|---|
| Biochemical pathway | 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 humane | More human studies |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | More affordable |
| Target group | 40+, athletes, biohackers | Starters, general vitality |
Longevity expert Dr. David Sinclair uses NMN daily 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 here why Longevity experts like Andrew Huberman and 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 precursor substances 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⁺, strengthen the effect, or support the mitochondria:
🔸 Urolithin A
Comes from pomegranate
Stimulates mitophagy (cleaning up 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
Occurs naturally in parsley, celery and chamomile
🔸 Fisetin
Senolytics: clears out senescent cells that waste NAD⁺
Promote younger working cells
🔸 Resveratrol & pterostilbene
Activates sirtuins, which require NAD⁺ to work
Synergistic with NMN and NR (widely used by biohackers)
Please note: sirtuin activation uses NAD⁺, so combining is recommended
Smart NAD⁺ stack – this is how you 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 degradation
Urolithin A – for mitochondrial health
Resveratrol / pterostilbene – activates sirtuins
TMG – supports methylation and balance
Take your stack preferably in the morning on an empty stomach. Combine with a 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), allowing it to be available to the body more quickly.
Which works faster: NMN or NR?
Many users notice faster effects of NMN, especially on energy and focus, but NR is also effective — the response varies per person.
Which one 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 recorded best?
NMN seems to be absorbed slightly better in the small intestine, especially when taken sublingually or in powder form.
What do most biohackers use?
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 Fisetine.
Which one 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 one is better for sports performance?
NMN seems 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 aging inhibition.
What exactly is NAD⁺?
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that is essential for energy production, cell repair and aging processes.
Why does NAD⁺ decrease with age?
From the age of 30, NAD⁺ production decreases and its breakdown increases, including 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 the natural decline by stimulating production through different routes.
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 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 properly absorbed through the intestines. That's 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 directly participate in the production.
Why are cofactors important in NMN or NR?
Without support (such as TMG or Apigenin), NAD⁺ building may be less efficient or methyl substances may be depleted.
Conclusion: consciously choose your NAD⁺ strategy
Do you want to slow down aging, increase your energy or simply get the best out of yourself? Then be NMN and NR powerful tools which help your body restore NAD⁺ levels. Combine this with smart cofactors such as 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.
To ask? Contact us via the contact button and you will receive a quick answer to your questions from the longevity experts at Skins Unlimited