Collagen (Type I, II, III) vs NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

Mechanism

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are absorbed as di- and tripeptides (primarily hydroxyproline-proline and hydroxyproline-glycine) via PepT1 transporters in the small intestine. These bioactive peptides accumulate in skin, cartilage, and bone where they stimulate fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix synthesis by upregulating collagen gene expression (COL1A1, COL3A1). They also inhibit MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) activity that degrades existing collagen, and stimulate hyaluronic acid production by dermal fibroblasts.

Standard Dosing

10-20g hydrolyzed collagen peptides daily

Timing

Any time; often added to morning coffee or post-workout shake. For joint support, take with vitamin C 30-60 min before exercise. Type II collagen (undenatured, UC-II) taken on empty stomach.

Cycle Duration

ongoing (minimum 8-12 weeks for visible results)

Side Effects

• Mild bloating
• GI discomfort
• Unpleasant taste
• Rare: calcium elevation (if calcium-containing marine source)
• Feeling of fullness

Contraindications

• Fish/shellfish allergy (if marine-sourced)
• Phenylketonuria (collagen contains phenylalanine)
• Histamine intolerance (bone broth collagen may be high in histamine)

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

NMN is a direct biosynthetic precursor to NAD+ via the salvage pathway enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT). Elevated NAD+ activates sirtuins (SIRT1-7), PARP DNA repair enzymes, and CD38/CD157 signaling. SIRT1 activation deacetylates PGC-1alpha (mitochondrial biogenesis), FOXO transcription factors (stress resistance), and NF-kB (anti-inflammatory). NMN also enters cells via the Slc12a8 transporter, recently identified in the gut.

Standard Dosing

500-1000mg daily

Timing

Morning on empty stomach. Sublingual absorption bypasses first-pass metabolism.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Mild GI discomfort
• Flushing (rare, unlike niacin)
• Mild headache during initial use

Contraindications

• Active cancer (theoretical concern: NAD+ may fuel rapidly dividing cells)
• Pregnancy/lactation (insufficient data)
• Theoretical concern in active cancer (NAD+ fuels all rapidly dividing cells)

Best Stacking Partners