Multivitamins May Slow Cellular Aging, Study Finds

New research published in Nature Medicine indicates that daily multivitamin consumption may contribute to slowing biological aging. The study, which involved 958 healthy adults aged around 70, utilized epigenetic clocks to measure biological age based on DNA changes.

Participants took either a daily multivitamin, cocoa extract, or a placebo for two years. Results showed that multivitamins had a modest, yet significant, protective effect on two key epigenetic clocks, slowing them by roughly two months each year. Those who were biologically older than their chronological age at the start experienced the most pronounced benefits.

The study authors hypothesize that multivitamins might slow aging by addressing underlying nutrient deficiencies, which are known to accelerate cellular aging. However, experts caution that epigenetic clocks are not perfect measures of biological age and only two of the five clocks used in this study showed significant changes.

While the findings are promising, they primarily apply to healthy individuals. Experts stress that a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is the most crucial element for healthy aging. Certain groups, such as those with chronic diseases or impaired nutrient absorption, might find multivitamins beneficial, but consulting a doctor is recommended.