A recent study has found that vitamin D supplements could be largely responsible for decelerating the biological ageing process. Scientists discovered that people with adequate levels of vitamin D displayed slower cellular ageing indicators, including longer telomeres and lower inflammation, than people with deficiencies. The discovery has rekindled interest in the vitamin’s possibilities beyond bone health.
The research, published in a prestigious medical journal, tracked thousands of people over a number of years, measuring their levels of vitamin D, general health, and cellular biomarkers. Researchers found vitamin D supplements were linked with lowered oxidative stress — a driving force behind ageing — and enhanced immune function, both of which are leading to healthier ageing.
Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” can be naturally synthesized through sun exposure and also found in food sources such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and dairy products that are fortified with vitamin D. With the evolution of modern lifestyle and restricted sun exposure, many individuals have become deficient, and supplementation has become a very widespread practice.
Although further studies are required to establish the direct anti-ageing benefits, health professionals recommend having optimal levels of vitamin D via dietary means, sunshine exposure, or supplements. With the quest for ageing reversed and turned around, vitamin D is proving to be a cheap yet effective solution in the fight against ageing.
