Multivitamins may slow memory loss and rejuvenate the brain by up to 3 years, says Harvard study

Have you ever had that awkward moment when you forgot the name of the person you just talked to? Or that “blank” during a conversation where the words just evaporate or get jumbled up in your mind?

I have some exciting news for you. Research has confirmed that multivitamins may be the key to sharper memory in older adults, potentially making your brain “3 years younger”!

Yes, you read that right! These colorful little pills can do wonders when it comes to your cognitive health.

Memory is like a muscle. And just as we exercise to strengthen our bodies, we can provide our brains with the right nutrients to keep them in shape. That’s where multivitamins come in!

Curious to learn more about this surprising discovery? Then read on and prepare to be amazed by the benefits of multivitamins in the battle against forgetfulness. After all, who said age is an obstacle to a brilliant mind?

Scientific study

Recently, two important studies were published: one in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and another led by Harvard University, published in COSMOS-Web. These studies investigated the effects of daily multivitamin consumption in adults over 60 years of age.

During the study, more than 3,500 adults in this age group were asked to take a multivitamin supplement every day. 

After three years, researchers saw promising results. Participants who followed this practice regularly performed significantly better on memory tests and had brains that looked up to three years younger.

The benefits don’t stop there. Adults who took the multivitamin daily also showed an overall improvement in cognition, especially in episodic memory and executive skills.

One estimate made by the researchers is that these individuals had up to a three-year reduction in memory loss compared to a group that received a placebo.

“Most older adults have concerns about memory changes that occur during the aging process.”, “Our study suggests that multivitamin supplementation may be a simple and affordable way for older adults to slow memory loss.” 

Lok-Kin Yeung, PhD, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral researcher at Columbia University.

Superior results in people with heart disease 

An intriguing finding emerged from studies on multivitamins: the benefits of these supplements were even more evident in adults suffering from cardiovascular disease, although the exact reasons are not completely clear.

“There is evidence that people with cardiovascular disease may have lower levels of micronutrients that multivitamins can correct,” but we don’t really know right now why the effect is stronger in this group.”

Dr. Brickman.

What is a multivitamin?

The main function of a multivitamin is to supplement the diet, providing essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing or in insufficient quantities in the foods consumed.

These supplements can contain a variety of vitamins, such as B complex (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, amino acids, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, among others. 

The exact combination of nutrients may vary by brand and specific manufacturer formulation.

Why can multivitamin help? 

As we age, our bodies may have difficulty effectively absorbing and utilizing nutrients from food. 

A multivitamin can help people meet their daily needs for micronutrients that may be lacking or in insufficient amounts in their diet and ensure that the brain receives the nutrients it needs to function properly.

However, it is important to note that they should not replace nutrients obtained through food. Multivitamins are an additional supplement to your diet, which should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains and whole foods.

Keep in mind that other factors also play an important role in brain health. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and social connections all contribute to cognitive support. 

What to consider when choosing a multivitamin:

When deciding to start taking a multivitamin, it’s important to consider a few factors. Not all are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Product quality: Make sure you choose a high-quality one from a reputable brand. Look for brands that have good reviews and are known for their purity and effectiveness.
2. Formulation: Check the ingredients and formulation of the multivitamin. It should contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals essential for brain health, such as B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium.
3. Proper dosage: Make sure the dosage is appropriate for your age and individual needs. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine the correct dosage for you.
4. Possible interactions: If you are taking other medications, make sure that the multivitamin does not have any negative interactions with these medications. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement.

Before starting any supplement, including multivitamins, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Do you already take any type of multivitamin supplement? If so, share in the comments which one you use. 

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Source and bibliography:

1. Yeung LK, Alschuler DM, Wall M, et al. Multivitamin supplementation improves memory in older adults: a randomized controlled trial.

2. Brigham and Women's Hospital. Study finds daily multivitamin supplements improved memory and slowed cognitive aging in older adults.

3. Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Multivitamin Improves Memory in Older Adults , according to study.