A new study suggests vitamin D3 supplements may slow ageing by preserving telomere length - potentially delaying biological ageing by nearly three years.
A recent trial has found that taking daily vitamin D3 supplements could help slow biological ageing by preserving telomere length - the protective caps on chromosomes that naturally shorten with age.
Published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the study analysed data from the VITAL trial, which followed over 1,000 adults aged 50 and older for five years. Participants received either vitamin D3 (50ug/day equivalent to 2000 IU), omega-3 fatty acids, both, or a placebo.
The results showed that those who took vitamin D3 experienced significantly less telomere shortening over four years - equivalent to nearly three years of delayed ageing compared to those on placebo. Telomeres naturally erode over time and are closely linked to the development of age-related diseases when they become critically short.
Interestingly, omega-3 supplementation did not show the same benefit in telomere preservation.
While these findings are promising, researchers noted some limitations. The participant group was predominantly white and over 50, and the telomere analysis was a secondary outcome of a broader trial. More research is needed to confirm the findings across more diverse populations.
Nonetheless, this study adds to growing evidence that vitamin D3 may offer health benefits that go well beyond bone and immune support - potentially playing a key role in slowing cellular ageing.
Written by Kathy Meggs, BSc
Director of Regulatory Affairs & New Product Development at Metabolics
With over 13 years at Metabolics and a strong foundation in pharmaceutical research, analytical biochemistry, and quality management, Kathy brings extensive experience to the development of high-quality, evidence-based supplements. She is passionate about supporting health and well-being through expertly formulated nutrition.
