Key Takeaway
First rigorous human RCT showing NMN (250mg/day for 10 weeks) increased muscle insulin sensitivity by ~25% in prediabetic postmenopausal women.
Summary
This landmark study from Washington University was the first rigorous double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of NMN in humans.
Protocol:
- 25 postmenopausal women with prediabetes
- 250mg NMN daily for 10 weeks
- Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (gold standard for insulin sensitivity)
Key findings:
- Muscle insulin sensitivity increased ~25%
- Muscle NAD+ metabolite (NMN) increased in NMN group
- No significant changes in body composition
- No adverse effects reported
- Blood NAD+ levels did not change (tissue levels more relevant)
Significance:
Provided first rigorous human evidence that oral NMN supplementation has metabolic effects, though the specific population (prediabetic women) limits generalizability.
Figures
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