These Popular Supplements Are Sold With Anti-Aging Claims. Here's What Science Says.
ScienceAlert • • health
Key Points:
- NAD+, NMN, and resveratrol are supplements marketed for anti-aging by targeting cellular processes like energy metabolism and DNA repair, but their actual benefits for humans remain unproven.
- NAD+ levels decline with age and are linked to cellular energy production, but topical NAD+ creams lack strong evidence for effectiveness compared to established skincare ingredients like sunscreen and retinoids.
- NAD+ precursors NMN and NR show promise in animal studies for improving metabolism and physical function, but human trials have only demonstrated limited increases in NAD+ levels with unclear impacts on muscle mass, cognition, or biological aging.
- Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in certain plants, has poor bioavailability and inconsistent evidence in humans, with potential side effects and interactions with medications, making its anti-aging claims questionable.
- Overall, while these compounds affect pathways related to aging, there is no conclusive proof they slow aging in people; proven healthy aging strategies remain lifestyle-based, including exercise, diet, sleep, and avoiding harmful habits.