NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) for fertility

On this page

1. What is NMN?
2. Function and how it works
3. Fertility benefits
4. Recommended daily dose
5. Sources
6. Cautions and contraindications
7. My Fertility Guide
8. Related pages

1. What is NMN?

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺), a coenzyme found in every cell that is essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair and mitochondrial function. NAD⁺ levels decline progressively with age, contributing to the age-related decline in egg quality. NMN is one of the most exciting recent developments in fertility supplementation for older women.

Reference ranges and recommended intakes vary from country to country — in the UK, NMN's regulatory status as a supplement has changed in recent years. Always check the current legal and clinical position before purchasing.

2. Function and how it works

NMN works by raising cellular NAD⁺ levels:

1. Boosts NAD⁺. NMN is the most direct precursor of NAD⁺ and raises NAD⁺ levels reliably.
2. Mitochondrial function. NAD⁺ is essential for the citric acid cycle and ATP production — particularly important for energy-hungry eggs.
3. DNA repair. NAD⁺ is required for the activity of sirtuins and PARPs — enzymes that repair damaged DNA in the egg.
4. Egg quality rejuvenation. Animal research has shown that NMN supplementation rejuvenates egg quality in aging females, leading to a measurable restoration of fertility.

3. Fertility benefits

NMN is particularly relevant for:

1. Older women trying to conceive (over 35–40)
2. Women with low AMH or diminished ovarian reserve
3. Women with poor egg quality on previous IVF cycles
4. Women with repeated IVF failure
5. Women with chromosomally abnormal embryos on previous cycles

NMN is best used as part of a comprehensive supplement plan including coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinol, melatonin and other antioxidants.

4. Recommended daily dose

I recommend a daily dose of 250 mg of NMN for general fertility support, increasing to 500 mg for women with documented poor egg quality or low AMH.

5. Sources

Trace amounts of NMN are found in certain foods:

1. Edamame and other soy products
2. Avocados
3. Broccoli and cabbage
4. Tomatoes
5. Cucumbers
6. Beef

However, dietary NMN intake is far below the doses needed for clinical effect — supplementation is the only way to achieve fertility-relevant doses.

6. Cautions and contraindications

1. NMN is a relatively new supplement; long-term safety data are still being gathered.
2. Discontinue once pregnancy is confirmed unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
3. Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of cancer, as NAD⁺ raising agents have theoretical effects on cell metabolism.
4. Always consult with a fertility specialist or your doctor before starting any new supplement regime.

7. My Fertility Guide

8. Related pages

• Fertility supplements directory
• Vitamin B3 (niacin)
• Coenzyme Q10
• Ubiquinol
• PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone)
• Melatonin
• Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)
• Low AMH level
• Premature ovarian failure