Over time, the body changes, and the marks of age become visible on the skin, bones and even the energy with which the day is faced. Science continues to look for ways to grow older, and a new study now points out an unexpected solution: a simple, accessible vitamin with promising cellular results.
For years, beauty products have been presented as the secret to locking aging. However, many of these solutions act only on the surface, without lasting effects. More recently, according to Green Vibe, researchers have been looking into the body in search of more effective answers.
A team of scientists has followed a group of people over 50 for five years, analyzing the impact of vitamin D3 on cellular aging. The results were published in the renowned magazine The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
What is behind the discovery
This study was conducted by Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia in the United States. Researchers focused on telomeres, structures that protect chromosomes and shorten with age. Telomers shortening is considered a marker of biological aging. As these structures decrease, cells become less effective and more vulnerable to disease.
Participants were divided into two groups. One received 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily. The other took a placebo. Over time, changes in telomers were recorded.
Results that surprised the researchers
Those who took vitamin D3 kept the longest telomeres, which indicates a slower cellular aging rhythm. In practical terms, it is estimated that this represents about three years of preserved biological youth.
Already the participants who took only the placebo had greater cellular wear. In the same study, omega 3 fatty acids were also analyzed, but showed no significant benefits in this respect.
The possibility of influencing cellular aging with an affordable vitamin paves the way to new approaches in the area of preventive health, the same source says.
So that it will serve vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, helping to keep bones strong. It also has a key role in the functioning of the immune system.
In addition, it is involved in muscle health, mood balance and serotonin production, a well-being-associated substance. Low D3 levels are linked to greater tiredness, discouragement and loss of concentration. For all these reasons, ensuring adequate levels of this vitamin is important to health in all stages of life.
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How to obtain vitamin D3 naturally
The human body can produce vitamin D3 when the skin is exposed to the sun. About 15 to 30 minutes daily of sun exposure are usually enough to maintain balanced levels.
Food is also an important source. Fat fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna, are among the richest foods in D3. The egg yolk, some healed cheeses and cod liver oil also provide it.
Mushrooms that have been exposed to the sun can contribute to a lower scale, being a useful complement to various diets.
When to consider supplementary
It is not always possible to obtain all necessary vitamin D3 only with sun and food, especially during the winter months or in people over 50.
In such cases, supplementation may be recommended. The dose used in the study was 2,000 IU per day, but the appropriate value should be adjusted on a case by case basis, based on clinical analysis. Before starting any supplement, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional, according to the same source mentioned above. Excess vitamin D can cause adverse effects and should be avoided.
A discreet but effective ally
Aging is a natural process, but it does not have to be synonymous with loss of quality of life. The preservation of telomeres, now associated with vitamin D3, can be a simple but significant step. This vitamin, so far better known for its action in the bones, is highlighted in another front: that of cellular longevity. In a world increasingly aware of health, this discovery could change habits of millions of people, says.
In such a simple gesture as sunbathing or including certain foods in the diet, it may be one of the keys to get older. And, according to investigators, it doesn’t take much to start making a difference.
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