A randomized trial by Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia demonstrates that 2,000 IU vitamin D supplementation preserves telomere length by protecting DNA and enhancing telomerase activity, offering a safe, cost-effective strategy to slow cellular aging.
Key points
- Daily 2,000 IU vitamin D supplementation preserves ~140 base pairs of telomeric DNA in older adults.
- Trial conducted by Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia demonstrates telomerase upregulation.
- Strongest effects observed in participants under age 64 with normal BMI, highlighting lifestyle interactions.
Why it matters: This study establishes vitamin D as a safe, accessible intervention to slow cellular aging, shifting focus to nutrient-based longevity strategies.
Q&A
- What are telomeres?
- How does vitamin D affect telomerase activity?
- Why was a dose of 2,000 IU chosen?
- Why do obese individuals show reduced benefit?
- Can vitamin D supplementation replace anti-aging drugs?