Does Andrew Huberman Take NMN? The Truth Behind His Supplement Routine Revealed
September 11, 2025If you’re curious about the latest trends in health and longevity you’ve probably heard of NMN—a supplement touted for its potential to boost energy and slow aging. With so much buzz around NMN it’s natural to wonder if leading neuroscientists like Dr. Andrew Huberman actually take it themselves.
Andrew Huberman is known for sharing science-backed advice on everything from sleep to supplements. So does he include NMN in his daily routine? Let’s explore what he’s said and what it means for you if you’re considering NMN for your own health goals.
Who Is Andrew Huberman?
Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist known for research on brain function, behavior, and health optimization. You find his name widely referenced due to his role as a professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and various work on visual neuroscience, stress, and neuroplasticity. Huberman Lab, his well-known podcast, covers topics like supplementation, sleep, longevity, and cognitive performance with insights from scientific studies and experts. Many listeners value the way he communicates complex science about supplements like NMN, citing specific protocols and research.
What Is NMN?
NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, supports your cellular energy and longevity by acting as a direct precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). Studies from journals like Cell Metabolism and Nature indicate that NAD+ levels decline with age, impacting mitochondrial health and metabolic function. NMN supplements aim to restore NAD+ levels in the body.
Researchers identify NMN as a nucleotide derived from ribose and nicotinamide. Supplement manufacturers offer NMN in capsules, powders, and tablets, with dosages often ranging from 250 mg to 1000 mg per day. Some users report benefits such as increased vitality, better metabolic health, and improved cognitive function, citing preliminary clinical trials and rodent studies.
Your body's absorption of NMN impacts its effectiveness: SLC12A8 acts as a key transporter for NMN in the small intestine, as reported in studies published by Nature (2019).
Typical NMN use cases include those seeking healthy aging, increased energy, and enhanced cognitive clarity. Researchers continue to study NMN for potential roles in age-related diseases, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health.
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Andrew Huberman’s Stance on NMN
Andrew Huberman, known for practical recommendations on brain and body health, addresses NMN in public communications and social platforms. You’ll find specific context on what he’s said and shared regarding NMN below.
Public Statements About NMN
Dr. Huberman references NMN as a promising compound for promoting cellular energy and NAD+ levels. On the Huberman Lab podcast and in interviews, he outlines NMN’s mechanisms—its conversion to NAD+, which supports mitochondrial function and metabolic health. He hasn’t confirmed personal NMN use and states he evaluates new supplements based on published peer-reviewed research. During the episode “Dr. David Sinclair: Slowing & Reversing Aging,” Huberman discusses NMN research, emphasizing incomplete long-term human safety data. He encourages careful review of regulatory guidelines and ongoing clinical findings before considering NMN supplementation.
Social Media Mentions
On X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, Dr. Huberman occasionally comments on NAD+ precursors, including NMN. Posts often focus on emerging study results, the bioavailability of NMN, and practical limitations of longevity supplements. He refrains from posting endorsements or personal protocols using NMN. Instead, he recommends considering current evidence and consulting healthcare professionals for decisions about NMN or related supplements.
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Science Behind NMN Supplementation
Research shows NMN acts as a precursor for NAD+, supporting cellular metabolism and healthy aging. Studies explore benefits and risks as interest in NMN grows among those seeking longevity solutions.
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Potential Benefits
NMN supports several biological functions by raising NAD+ levels in the body. Human and rodent studies suggest links between NMN supplementation and improved mitochondrial function, increased energy, and enhanced cognitive performance. Participants in trials often report better metabolic health markers, with reductions in age-related inflammation and oxidative stress. Some early clinical investigations also associate NMN with insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health, specifically in older adults or individuals at risk for metabolic syndrome.
Safety and Risks
Safety profiles for NMN largely rely on short-term clinical trial data and preclinical animal studies. Most healthy adults experience no serious adverse effects when taking NMN at daily doses from 250 mg to 1000 mg, though mild digestive discomfort may occur. Current human studies note limited evidence regarding long-term safety, possible medication interactions, and risks for vulnerable groups such as pregnant individuals or those with chronic illnesses. Regulatory agencies in the US and EU have yet to approve NMN as a drug, restricting supplement marketing to non-therapeutic claims.
Alternatives to NMN That Andrew Huberman Recommends
Andrew Huberman discusses several NAD+ precursors and longevity-supporting compounds as potential NMN alternatives. These include NR (nicotinamide riboside), resveratrol, and spermidine, all of which feature in Huberman Lab podcast episodes and interviews addressing cellular health, energy, and aging.
- NR (Nicotinamide Riboside): You find NR discussed as a direct NAD+ precursor with human safety data supporting its use. Studies referenced by Huberman—such as Mills et al., Nature Communications 2016—show that NR supplementation may increase NAD+ levels and support mitochondrial function, much like NMN. Popular brands include Tru Niagen and Elysium Basis.
- Resveratrol: You notice Huberman highlights resveratrol, found in grape skin and red wine, for its effects on sirtuin activation and cellular defense pathways. He mentions research suggesting synergy between resveratrol and NAD+ boosters for support of healthy aging, referencing Sinclair et al., Science 2003. Example supplements include Thorne Resveracel.
- Spermidine: You encounter spermidine mentioned as an agent shown to promote autophagy and longevity in preclinical models. Huberman notes that ongoing human trials examine its potential for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, with brands like spermidineLIFE available on the market.
- Lifestyle Interventions: You hear Huberman repeatedly underscore sleep optimization, intermittent fasting, strength training, and sunlight exposure as core pillars for increasing NAD+ naturally and improving overall healthspan. He provides protocols on these interventions in podcast episodes and related research summaries.
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Key Takeaways
- Dr. Andrew Huberman has not confirmed personal use of NMN, though he acknowledges its potential for supporting cellular energy and longevity.
- He emphasizes making supplement decisions based on peer-reviewed research, regulatory guidance, and consultation with healthcare professionals.
- NMN is a precursor to NAD+, with research suggesting benefits for metabolic health, energy, and healthy aging, but long-term human safety data is still limited.
- Huberman often recommends or discusses alternative NAD+ boosters like NR (nicotinamide riboside), resveratrol, and spermidine, alongside foundational lifestyle interventions.
- Safety, regulatory status, and ongoing research should be carefully reviewed before considering NMN or similar supplements.
Conclusion
When considering NMN or any supplement for your health goals it's essential to weigh the current research alongside expert opinions like those of Dr. Huberman. While NMN shows promise for supporting cellular energy and longevity you should always prioritize evidence-based information and consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your routine.
Exploring alternatives and lifestyle strategies can also help you optimize your well-being. Staying informed and cautious ensures you make the best choices for your long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NMN and why is it popular?
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a supplement that serves as a precursor to NAD+, a molecule vital for cellular energy and metabolism. Interest in NMN has grown due to its potential in promoting longevity, increased energy, and healthy aging.
Does Dr. Andrew Huberman take NMN himself?
Dr. Huberman has discussed NMN’s potential benefits on his podcast and social media but has not confirmed personal use. He emphasizes evaluating supplements based on scientific research and advises consulting healthcare professionals before consideration.
What does NMN do in the body?
NMN boosts levels of NAD+, which supports mitochondrial function, cellular energy, and metabolism. As NAD+ naturally declines with age, NMN supplementation may help offset age-related decrease in energy and cognitive performance.
What are typical benefits of taking NMN?
Reported benefits include increased vitality, better metabolic health, and enhanced cognitive function. Early studies and user feedback suggest potential improvements in energy, metabolism, and markers of healthy aging.
Is NMN considered safe to use?
Short-term studies and animal research suggest NMN is generally safe for healthy adults at daily doses between 250 mg and 1000 mg, though some people may experience mild digestive discomfort. Long-term human safety data is still limited.
Does NMN interact with other medications?
There’s limited information on NMN’s potential interactions with other medications. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding NMN or any supplement to your routine, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Is NMN approved by health authorities?
NMN is not approved as a drug by regulatory agencies like the FDA (US) or EMA (EU). It is sold as a dietary supplement, and manufacturers must refrain from making therapeutic health claims.
What alternatives to NMN does Dr. Huberman recommend?
Dr. Huberman discusses alternatives such as nicotinamide riboside (NR), resveratrol, and spermidine. He also highlights the value of non-supplement strategies, including quality sleep, intermittent fasting, and exercise, to support NAD+ levels.
Should I start taking NMN for longevity?
While NMN shows promise, Dr. Huberman advises caution and recommends reviewing the latest clinical research, regulatory guidance, and seeking advice from healthcare providers before starting NMN for longevity or other health goals.
What lifestyle changes can help boost NAD+ naturally?
Dr. Huberman suggests optimizing sleep, incorporating intermittent fasting, regular exercise (like strength training), and getting sunlight exposure as effective, natural ways to boost NAD+ levels and promote healthy aging.