Vitamin D may help Telomeres shrink less over time
A new study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Vitamin D3 supplementation and leukocyte telomere length) found “4-years of supplementation with 2000 IU/day vitamin D3 reduced telomere attrition by 140 bp, suggesting that vitamin D3 daily supplementation . . . . might have a role in counteracting telomere erosion or cell senescence.”
In other words, the study found that people who took daily vitamin D supplements for four years had slightly less shortening of their telomere than those who didn’t. Telomeres are cellular level markers of aging.
Telomeres are non-coding sequences located at the ends of chromosomes that protect coding sequences from degradation during DNA replication. Over time, telomeres shorten with each cell division, which is associated with aging and increased risk of diseases. As we age, telomeres shrink.
Direct exposure to sunlight is best way to produce Vitamin D
The study was conducted monitoring Vitamin D supplements intake. However, the production of Vitamin D from sun exposure is the best source of Vitamin D. Sunlight on our skin is the best Vitamin D production source. Also, being outdoors helps us be healthier. Vitamin D also helps reduce stress and supports bone, muscle and immune health. See Vitamin D Health Benefits, Skin Synthesis, Natural Food Sources, Deficiency and Photoprotection. See also Vitamin D from the Sun’s Rays helps Prevent High Blood Pressure.
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