The intake of vitamin D may slow cellular aging and support immunity — such conclusions were reached by scientists in a study reported by The Independent. It concerns the substance's effect on telomeres — structures directly linked to age-related changes in the body.
Vitamin D, often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," may play a more significant role in maintaining health as we age than previously thought. New research indicates that its intake can slow down cellular aging processes while simultaneously supporting the immune system.
This is reported by the Independent.
Researchers found that daily intake of 2000 international units of vitamin D helped preserve telomeres — tiny structures at the ends of chromosomes that protect DNA from damage during cell division. Telomeres can be compared to the plastic tips on shoelaces: they prevent the "unraveling" of genetic material. Telomeres are located at the ends of 46 human chromosomes and shorten with each cell division. When they become too short, the cell loses its ability to divide and eventually dies. Scientists link telomere shortening to the development of age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and osteoarthritis.
Telomere length is negatively affected by smoking, chronic stress, depression, and inflammatory processes in the body. Researchers suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of vitamin D may partially explain its protective effect.
The study conducted at Augusta University in the USA involved 1,031 participants with an average age of 65. Over five years, researchers measured telomere length at the beginning of the observation, after two years, and after four years. Half of the participants received 2000 IU of vitamin D daily, while the other half received a placebo.
The results showed that the group taking vitamin D had telomeres preserved at 140 base pairs better than the placebo group. For comparison, it has been previously established that over ten years, telomeres naturally shorten by about 460 base pairs, making the effect potentially significant.
It has also been reported that vitamin D may reduce the risk of respiratory infections, especially in people with its deficiency, and may potentially influence the risk of autoimmune diseases, although these data require further confirmation.
At the same time, specialists emphasize that the optimal dosage remains a subject of discussion. The study used 2000 IU per day, while the recommended norms are significantly lower — around 600–800 IU. Some studies indicate that even 400 IU can reduce the frequency of colds.
Scientists note that excessive elongation of telomeres may also be associated with health risks, so the "ideal" length has yet to be determined.
Despite the encouraging results, vitamin D is not a "fountain of youth," writes bb.lv. The foundation of longevity still lies in familiar factors — healthy eating, physical activity, quality sleep, and stress management.
