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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Arginine wins 1 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Probably helps
11 of 19 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
5 of 6 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
3-6g daily
30-60 minutes before exercise, Divided doses throughout the day for cardiovascular benefits
L-Arginine powder or capsules
250-500mg
Morning, With or without food
NMN powder or capsules
30-60 minutes
During exercise
2-4 weeks
Immediate
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
Long-term
Nutritional interventions for preventing and treating pressure ulcers
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2024) · Meta analysis · n=7920
Compared to standard diet, protein supplements may result in little to no difference in pressure ulcer incidence (protein 21 per 1000, standard diet 28 per 1000; RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.14; 4 studies, 4264 participants; low-certainty evidence).
Comparative Effects of Different Nutritional Supplements on Inflammation, Nutritional Status, and Clinical Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2023) · Meta analysis · n=2841
Glutamine was superior in decreasing tumor necrosis factor-α (MD -25.2; 95% CrI [-32.62, -17.95]), whereas combined omega-3 and arginine supplementation was more effective in decreasing interleukin-6 (MD -61.41; 95% CrI [-97.85, -24.85]).
Nutritional interventions for treating foot ulcers in people with diabetes
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2020) · Meta analysis · n=629
It is also uncertain whether arginine, glutamine and β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate supplement increases the proportion of ulcers healed at 16 weeks compared with placebo (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.40).
Effect of 12-Week Intake of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide on Sleep Quality, Fatigue, and Physical Performance in Older Japanese Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
Nutrients (2022) · Rct · n=108
Significant interactions were observed between 5-STS and drowsiness. 5-STS of all groups on post-intervention and drowsiness of the NMN_PM and Placebo_PM groups on mid- and post-intervention showed significant improvement compared with those in pre-intervention.
Anti-inflammatory effects of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) in human skeletal muscle after BFR-exercise
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2026) · Rct · n=11
BFR-exercise increased the mitochondrial content in exercised muscle by 171% after 24 h of recovery.
The differential impact of three different NAD(+) boosters on circulatory NAD and microbial metabolism in humans
Nature metabolism (2026) · Rct · n=65
Ultimately, we propose a gut-dependent model for the modes of action of the three NAD+ precursors with NR and NMN elevating circulatory NAD+ via the Preiss-Handler pathway, while rapidly absorbed Nam acutely affects NAD+ levels via the salvage pathway.
Based on meta-analysis showing mean reductions of 5.39 mmHg systolic and 2.66 mmHg diastolic. Effects are modest and may not be clinically significant for all individuals. GI side effects increase notably above 6g.
Based on multiple RCTs showing dose-dependent increases in blood NAD+ levels. Effects vary significantly by formulation bioavailability. Most studies used 250-1000mg doses.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Arginine has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 8.5/10) and wins in 1 of 3 categories.
No known interactions between Arginine and NMN have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.