Table of Contents
- Important: What to Do About Brain Fog
- What Is NMN?
- What Is Brain Fog?
- How Might NMN Help Reduce Brain Fog?
- Scientific Research on NMN and Brain Fog
- Choosing the Best NMN Supplements
- Natural Ways to Alleviate Brain Fog
- Does Taking NMN Have any Side Effects or Risks?
- The Correct NMN Dosage and Safety
- Frequently Asked Questions
Ever feel like your brain is stuck in a fog, making it hard to focus or think clearly? Many people struggle with brain fog, and they're often searching for ways to clear the mental haze. One supplement that's been getting attention for its potential to improve cognitive function is NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide). But does NMN really help with brain fog?
As industry experts in NMN supplements, we've researched whether NMN can help boost mental clarity. Let's break down the science.
Important: What to Do About Brain Fog
If you are experiencing brain fog, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Don't try to self-diagnose and treat the problem on your own. There are many potential underlying causes for brain fog symptoms, and it's necessary for a professional first to exclude these, utilizing a thorough examination before you can embark on natural ways to improve brain fog.
What Is NMN?
NMN is a naturally occurring compound that is crucial to our cells' energy production. The body converts NMN into NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). NAD+ is essential for turning food into energy and keeping your cells healthy. As we get older, our levels of NAD+ drop, which can lead to fatigue, slower mental function, and signs of aging. By taking NMN, you help your body produce more NAD+, which might boost your energy and mental sharpness.
What Is Brain Fog?
If you are experiencing brain fog, you must first see a healthcare professional for an examination to ensure no other underlying problem is the cause. Once the doctor has excluded these, other avenues like NMN can be considered.
Brain fog is when you feel mentally fuzzy and struggle to focus or remember things, making everyday tasks harder.
Symptoms of brain fog might include:
Trouble concentrating
Forgetfulness
Slow thinking
Feeling mentally drained
Many things could cause brain fog, such as a lack of sleep, stress, poor diet, or aging. Not getting enough sleep can affect your brain's ability to function correctly. Stress can also interfere with the brain chemicals that control focus. Meanwhile, a diet low in nutrients like vitamin B12 or D can worsen brain fog.
How Might NMN Help Reduce Brain Fog?
NMN may help reduce brain fog by boosting NAD+ levels. This improves cellular energy production and brain function, improving mental clarity and focus. These are just a few of the many potential health benefits of NMN.
NMN and NAD+ Production
NMN is converted into NAD+, which is crucial for energy and cellular health. As we age, NAD+ levels drop, leading to tired cells and less efficient energy production. Increasing NAD+ through NMN supplements helps your body produce more energy and repair cells, which could help clear up brain fog. Studies show that boosting NAD+ can improve the function of mitochondria (the parts of cells that produce energy), which helps with brain function. [1]
NMN's Role in Cellular Energy
Mitochondria are often called the "powerhouses" of cells because they make the energy your body needs to function. NMN helps make sure mitochondria work correctly, ensuring you have enough energy, which can lead to clearer thinking and less brain fog. Research has found that when mitochondrial function improves, people often feel less mentally tired and more focused. [2]
Scientific Research on NMN and Brain Fog
Research suggests NMN can help brain fog by supporting brain health and energy production.
Key Studies
Some studies have shown that NMN supplementation can increase NAD+ levels and improve brain energy metabolism. For example, a 2020 study in Cell Metabolism found that NMN improved brain function in mice by boosting NAD+ levels. Another study published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that NMN reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in the brains of aging mice, helping improve cognitive function. [3][4][5]
Findings and Implications
These studies suggest that NMN could help reduce brain fog by increasing NAD+ levels and supporting better energy production in the brain. While more human studies are needed, NMN may promise to improve memory, focus, and overall mental clarity.
Choosing the Best NMN Supplements
You can find small amounts of NMN in foods like:
Broccoli
Cabbage
Edamame
Avocado
Tomatoes
However, these foods don't provide enough NMN for significant benefits, so many people use NMN supplements.
When choosing the best NMN supplements, consider the following factors:
Purity and quality: Look for products with high purity levels, verified through third-party testing. Avoid supplements with unnecessary additives, fillers, or preservatives that could affect the quality or effectiveness.
Form of NMN: NMN supplements come in various forms, like capsules, tablets, or powders. Choose the form that best suits your preference and lifestyle.
Dosage per serving: Check the dosage per capsule or serving to ensure you're getting adequate, typically between 250 mg and 500 mg.
Reputable brand: Opt for trusted brands with positive user reviews and transparent ingredient lists.
Price and value: Compare the cost per milligram to ensure you're getting a good value for the quality of the product.
Pairing NMN With Resveratrol
Combining NMN with Resveratrol, known for its potential anti-aging effects, can amplify both benefits. Resveratrol activates sirtuins, boosting NAD+ production and promoting better energy, sleep, and cognitive health. If you're searching for the best Resveratrol supplement, prioritize reputable brands to ensure you get the most effective health benefits.
Natural Ways to Alleviate Brain Fog
Along with NMN supplementation, here are some lifestyle changes you can make to help you combat brain fog:
Practice intermittent fasting (IF): IF boosts cognitive function by stimulating ketones and improving insulin sensitivity, promoting mental clarity and reducing inflammation.
Follow a low-carbohydrate diet: Replace high-sugar and processed foods with healthy fats, proteins, non-starchy vegetables, and fermented foods for better mental clarity.
Prioritise sleep: Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep to combat fatigue and enhance focus.
Limit screen exposure: Reduce screen time, especially before bed, to improve cognitive function.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, sharpening cognitive function.
Manage stress: Meditation and yoga reduce stress, supporting mental clarity.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to sustain focus and prevent cognitive decline.
Does Taking NMN Have any Side Effects or Risks?
Although NMN supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, some people might experience mild side effects such as nausea, fatigue, or headaches. These effects are typically linked to higher doses or the initial stages of supplementation.
It's always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before introducing a new supplement into your routine, especially if you're taking medications for conditions like cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
The Correct NMN Dosage and Safety
NMN supplementation is widely considered safe, but starting with the correct dosage is essential.
Studies indicate that doses up to 1,000 to 1,200 mg per day are well-tolerated by humans, with few side effects. However, many people begin with a lower dose (250 mg to 500 mg daily) and gradually increase if needed. [6]
Consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable dosage based on your health and wellness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes brain fog?
There are myriad causes of brain fog; in most cases, there is no apparent underlying cause. With that said, there are also more severe causes of brain fog, and that's why it is essential to see your doctor first before embarking on strategies to improve your symptoms. An examination is necessary to ensure no other underlying problem is the cause. Once you and your doctor have excluded these, considering other avenues like NMN or other nootropics may be an option. NMN may help by boosting energy production and improving brain function.
What is NMN, and how does it work?
NMN is a compound that helps produce NAD+, which is essential for energy production and cell repair and could improve mental clarity.
How can NMN improve cognitive function?
NMN boosts NAD+ levels, which help with cellular energy production. This could lead to better focus and memory and reduced brain fog.
What foods contain NMN?
Small amounts of NMN are found in foods like broccoli, cabbage, avocados, and tomatoes. However, getting a high enough dose of NMN from food sources alone is complex, and it is difficult to make a real difference.
Are there scientific studies on NMN's benefits?
A handful of animal studies show that NMN can increase NAD+ levels and improve brain energy metabolism, helping reduce mental fatigue in mice.
Are there any side effects of NMN?
The vast majority of people do not experience side effects. Some users report mild side effects like nausea and headaches, but these are generally temporary.
Is NMN safe to take in the long term?
The long-term safety of the NMN is still being studied, so it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before prolonged use.