Can NAD and NMN really defy ageing?

17th October 2025

They’ve been called the “miracle molecules” of longevity. From celebrity wellness routines to cutting-edge labs, NAD+ and NMN are being hailed as the next big breakthrough in the science of ageing. But can these supplements really turn back the clock, or is the truth more nuanced? 

To separate fact from fad, we spoke with Stephanie Moore, Goodwood’s Gut Health Programme Lead, and Russell and Lindsey Kane, co-founders of the longevity brand JOLT, to explore how these molecules work, where the science stands, and how they fit into Goodwood’s holistic “inside-out” approach to wellbeing through its Active Longevity Retreat. 

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What are NAD and NMN? 

At the core of every cell in the body lies a molecule called NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). It’s essential for turning nutrients into energy, repairing DNA, and keeping cells functioning at their best. The catch? Our NAD+ levels decline steadily as we age. 

“NAD+ is a co-enzyme found in every cell of the body and is associated with cellular energy production, DNA repair, renewal of cells and slowing of the ageing process,” explains Stephanie Moore.

“To increase levels of NAD+, precursor nutrients are now available in supplement form. NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside) come from plain old vitamin B3, niacin. In theory, if we’re getting enough B3 through a wholesome diet, our cells should make all the NAD+ they need. However, as we age, and with certain genetic and health profiles, that conversion doesn’t happen as efficiently, and this is where supplementation can help. In supporting greater NAD+ production, we are supporting the body’s deepest, most complex healing systems to support our health from inside out.” 

In short, NMN and NR act as raw materials the body uses to make more NAD+. By replenishing these precursors, the hope is that we can restore youthful energy production and slow some of the cellular decline that comes with ageing. 

Scientific research supports this theory in principle. Studies suggest that maintaining or boosting NAD+ levels can help protect against metabolic disorders, DNA damage and inflammation associated with ageing. However, researchers are quick to point out that much of the evidence still comes from animal studies, and more human data is needed. 

Do they work? 

In animal studies, NMN supplementation has been shown to improve energy metabolism, physical activity and insulin sensitivity, while reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Human trials are still early but promising. 

One study in adults aged 40–65 found that daily NMN supplementation increased NAD+ levels by up to 38% in 60 days, while another reported improved walking distance and metabolic markers with doses up to 900 mg per day (PubMed: 36482258).

“Think of NAD+ like the battery pack for your cells,” says Russell Kane, co-founder of longevity supplement, JOLT, which contains NMN, alongside six other key natural ingredients to provide support through life’s mental and physical demands. Russell and his wife, Lindsey Kane created JOLT to find healthy alternatives for focus and energy.

About NAD+ Russell says, "It powers your energy, your metabolism, your brain, your DNA repair, basically all the stuff that keeps you feeling young and alive. The problem? It drops as you age. You’re running on 100% in your twenties, and by 50 you’re on dial-up. Boosting NAD+ is like plugging your body back into a fast charger.” 

Lindsey adds: “Most supplements are reactive; you take them because something’s wrong. NMN is proactive. It helps your body produce more NAD+ naturally, so instead of patching up problems, you’re fuelling the system that prevents them in the first place.” 

Are NAD and NMN a long-term solution? 

Because cells constantly renew, supplementation must be continuous to sustain elevated NAD+ levels. “These supplements need to be continuously taken to have a lasting effect as cells are constantly being renewed,” says Stephanie.

Why nutrition still matters 

Even with NAD-boosting supplements, the foundation of longevity remains nutrition. 

“Nutrition is so pivotal to the cellular energy production,” Stephanie shares. “This hugely complex process is dependent upon many nutrients. As our soil and therefore our food is becoming increasingly depleted of nutrients, so too are we. This is why we have to be more conscientious and consistent than ever to ensure we are nourishing our cells to allow them to function optimally long-term.” 

Foods rich in niacin, tryptophan, magnesium and antioxidants, such as fish, whole grains, broccoli and avocado, can naturally support NAD+ production. Gut health is also key, as it affects how well we absorb and utilise these nutrients. 

As Lindsey shares, “You can’t just throw collagen powder at a tired, overworked, sleep-deprived body and expect miracles. Real longevity starts with mindset, nervous system health and daily habits, and then yes, powerful supplementation like NMN can make a huge difference. But you have to show up for your body first.” 

Inside-out beauty: real longevity is foundational 

At Goodwood, longevity isn’t about fighting time; it’s about supporting renewal. The Active Longevity Retreat embodies that philosophy, combining science-led therapies with restorative lifestyle practices. 

“Goodwood’s Active Longevity programme encompasses multiple philosophies to ensure we are supporting cellular renewal and energy production as we age,” Stephanie explains. “The programme immerses guests in an experiential process of learning, practical sessions and personalised support to address seven fundamental truths about how to live long, robust, vibrant lives.” 

All food, treatments, education, movement and mindful nutrition and personalised support work in synergy to optimise mitochondrial health and natural repair; the same systems NAD+ supports at a cellular level. 

Longevity perspectives 

Lindsey says that ageing is about a healthy lifespan, rather than simply living longer, as she shares, “It’s the difference between existing and actually living. Lifespan is just how long you’re here. Healthspan is how long you feel like yoursel; strong, switched on, pain-free, full of energy and clarity. That’s the JOLT mission in a nutshell: to give people their spark back and to help them keep it.” 

Russell adds, “There's no point being alive if you’re creaking through the years, Googling ‘how to fix brain fog’ while your knees sound like a bag of Doritos. Healthspan is quality. Lifespan is just quantity. One is living. The other is just time passing.” 

The Goodwood way 

For both Goodwood and JOLT, longevity isn’t about denial or youth preservation. It’s about vitality, energy and resilience. 

“When we support the body’s natural ability to renew and repair, we’re not chasing youth; we’re cultivating health,” says Stephanie, “And that’s the real secret to ageing well.” 

The Active Longevity Retreat at Goodwood offers guests a blueprint for doing exactly that; integrating evidence-based science, restorative therapies and nutritional wisdom to help people live not just longer, but better, from the inside out. 

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