Vitamin D has shown remarkable benefits for the body, and now there’s new information about its effects.
Recent survey findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveal that vitamin D supplements can delay telomere shortening over four years. Telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, tend to shrink with age.
“The fact that telomeres seem to be safeguarded from shortening with vitamin D supplementation indicates that it might play a role in slowing down biological aging,” says a researcher.
Among the 25,871 participants, those who also took omega-3 supplements did not show any significant effects on telomere shortening.
The study suggests that taking 2000 IU of vitamin D, or 50 micrograms, may help prevent telomere erosion, whether or not participants were also using omega-3 supplements.
The National Institutes of Health advises a daily intake of 600 IUs for individuals aged 1-70 and 800 IUs for those over 70.
“By engaging in outdoor activities and maintaining a healthy diet, most people can achieve the appropriate vitamin D levels,” noted Manson.
