Harvard researchers have discovered that daily vitamin D supplementation can slow the aging process, according to a four-year study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The study, which followed 1,000 participants aged 50 and older, divided them into two groups: one received daily vitamin D pills, while the other received a placebo. After the study period, the vitamin D group showed less than half the telomere shortening compared to the placebo group, suggesting a potential role for vitamin D in slowing biological aging and age-related diseases.
Telomeres, often likened to the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces, serve as protective caps on chromosomes. As people age, these telomeres become shorter, which is associated with an increased risk of poor health outcomes and mortality. The study found that participants taking vitamin D also experienced fewer autoimmune diseases and reduced inflammation, which are key factors in age-related chronic conditions.
Lead author JoAnn Manson, a professor at Harvard Medical School, noted that while the results were surprising, they align with previous research on the benefits of vitamin D. She emphasized that the findings support the idea that vitamin D may play a protective role in telomere maintenance and overall health. However, Manson highlighted the controversy surrounding the appropriate blood level of vitamin D, as recommendations vary across different health organizations, making it a contentious topic in the field.
The study recommends a daily dosage of 1,000 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D for individuals with dietary restrictions or risk factors, such as those with malabsorption conditions or those living in nursing homes. While the research found that 2,000 IU per day was very safe, caution is advised against excessive intake, as very high doses may lead to health complications, including high blood or urine calcium levels. Manson stressed that while vitamin D supplementation is beneficial, it should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and balanced nutrition for long-term health.
In addition to dietary sources such as fortified foods and fatty fish, Manson recommended that individuals with specific health conditions consult their healthcare providers about testing and supplementation. The study’s findings have sparked interest in further research to confirm these results in separate randomized trials, which could lead to updated guidelines for vitamin D intake and its potential role in aging and chronic disease prevention.