Can a simple daily multivitamin slow down ageing?
A new study suggests it might—though the effect appears modest and scientists are urging caution.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham found that taking a multivitamin every day for two years slightly slowed certain markers of biological ageing.
Unlike chronological age—how many birthdays you’ve had—biological age reflects how well your body’s systems are actually functioning.
The study, published in Nature Medicine, tracked 958 healthy adults around the age of 70.
Scientists measured changes in DNA through something known as “epigenetic clocks,” which monitor patterns of DNA methylation linked to ageing.
Multivitamins And Ageing
The result? People taking daily multivitamins showed slightly slower ageing in two of the five clocks.
Equivalent to about four months less biological ageing over two years.
“That doesn’t mean everyone should rush to take multivitamins,” said lead researcher Howard Sesso.
“We still don’t know exactly who benefits or how.”
Experts remain cautious. Marco Di Antonio notes that supplements alone won’t offset unhealthy habits.
“A healthy diet and lifestyle matter far more,” he explained.
Others go further. Pilar Guallar-Castillón argues people should skip supplements altogether.
People should focus on fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals.
So, can a vitamin pill slow ageing? Maybe a little.
But the real anti-ageing secret still seems refreshingly old-fashioned: eat well, move often, and live healthy.
