Overview

• The VITAL sub-study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, shows that 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily significantly reduces telomere shortening over four years.
• Telomeres, protective caps on chromosomes linked to aging and chronic diseases, were better preserved in participants taking vitamin D compared to those on a placebo.
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation showed no measurable effect on telomere length in the study's 1,054 participants aged 50 and older.
• Researchers emphasize that while the findings are promising, further trials are needed to validate long-term health benefits and explore diverse populations.
• Vitamin D's role in reducing inflammation and risks of advanced cancer and autoimmune diseases was also highlighted in prior VITAL trial results.