Daily Multivitamins Slow Biological Aging in Major Clinical Trial
Two-year study of 958 adults shows multivitamins modestly reduce epigenetic aging markers, especially in those aging faster.
Summary
A major clinical trial found that daily multivitamin supplements can modestly slow biological aging. Researchers tracked 958 adults for two years using advanced DNA tests that measure how fast cells are aging. Those taking a standard multivitamin (Centrum Silver) showed slower increases in biological age markers compared to placebo groups. The effect was strongest in people who were aging faster than normal at the study's start. Cocoa extract supplements showed no anti-aging benefits. While the effects were small, this represents the first solid evidence that common multivitamins might help slow the aging process at the cellular level.
Detailed Summary
This groundbreaking study provides the first rigorous evidence that daily multivitamin supplements may slow biological aging at the cellular level. Using advanced DNA methylation tests that measure how fast our cells are actually aging, researchers found modest but meaningful anti-aging effects from common multivitamins.
The COSMOS trial followed 958 healthy adults for two years, comparing those taking daily Centrum Silver multivitamins, cocoa extract supplements, or placebos. Participants underwent sophisticated epigenetic testing that measures biological age independently of chronological age.
Results showed multivitamin users experienced slower increases in two key aging markers: PCGrimAge and PCPhenoAge. The effect was equivalent to aging about 0.1-0.2 years slower per year of supplementation. Importantly, benefits were strongest among participants who showed accelerated aging at baseline, suggesting multivitamins may help those most at risk. Cocoa extract showed no anti-aging effects despite previous promising research.
These findings could help explain why previous studies have linked multivitamin use to reduced risks of age-related diseases like cancer and cognitive decline. The supplements may work by addressing nutritional gaps that contribute to cellular aging, particularly in older adults with suboptimal nutrient status.
However, the effects were modest and researchers emphasize more studies are needed to confirm clinical relevance. The study only included older adults, so benefits in younger populations remain unknown. Additionally, epigenetic age acceleration represents just one aspect of the complex aging process.
Key Findings
- Daily multivitamins reduced biological aging rate by 0.1-0.2 years annually
- Benefits were strongest in people showing accelerated aging at baseline
- Cocoa extract supplements showed no anti-aging effects
- Effects were modest but statistically significant over two years
- Standard Centrum Silver multivitamin was used in the study
Methodology
Randomized controlled trial of 958 adults in the COSMOS study over 2 years. Participants received daily Centrum Silver multivitamins, cocoa extract (500mg flavanols), or placebo. Biological aging measured using five DNA methylation clocks.
Study Limitations
Study limited to older adults, so effects in younger populations unknown. Biological aging benefits were modest and clinical significance unclear. Only one multivitamin formulation tested over relatively short 2-year period.
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