Welcome back to another edition of our weekly newsletter. We hope you had a pleasant time over the long weekend and enjoyed some healthy treats!
This week, we’re going back to basics and focusing on the benefits of a multivitamin/mineral supplement. This topic is prompted by research that caught our attention, demonstrating how memory improvement and slowing of cognitive ageing in older adults can be achieved using a daily multivitamin.
What the Research Says
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly one in four Americans will face an elevated risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease by 2060. In response to this, researchers at Mass General Brigham conducted the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a large-scale nationwide randomised trial. This study rigorously tested the effects of multivitamin supplements on cognitive function. Previous studies within COSMOS hinted at the positive impact of a daily multivitamin on cognition, prompting researchers to delve deeper into the matter.
Their latest report, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (January 2024), presents the findings of the comprehensive analysis, including results from a subset of participants who underwent in-person cognitive assessments. This subset, known as COSMOS-Clinic, comprised 573 individuals. The researchers also conducted a meta-analysis among over 5,000 non-overlapping participants across the three separate cognition studies within the COSMOS trial.
The results confirm the significant benefits of a daily multivitamin over a placebo, particularly in memory and overall cognitive function. The authors estimate that the daily multivitamin slowed global cognitive ageing by the equivalent of two years compared to placebo.
Lead author Chirag Vyas, MBBS, MPH, emphasises the potential of daily multivitamin supplementation as an accessible strategy to mitigate cognitive ageing—a pressing concern for older adults worldwide.
How to Choose a Good Multivitamin
When searching for a good multivitamin, it’s crucial to prioritise a comprehensive nutrient profile and bioavailability. Opt for products that offer a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals in forms that the body can easily absorb and utilise. This ensures you receive the full spectrum of nutrients needed for optimal health and well-being.
Avoid multivitamin products that contain harmful additives, fillers, or allergens. Opt for those with transparent labelling, clearly listing the amounts of each nutrient included. This transparency lets you make informed decisions about the product’s suitability for your dietary needs and restrictions. Consider your health concerns and age-related requirements when selecting a multivitamin.
Ensure that the multivitamin is manufactured by a reputable company that adheres to strict quality control measures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This guarantees that the product is produced under sanitary conditions and meets rigorous quality standards. Finally, balance the cost of the multivitamin with its quality and efficacy to ensure you’re getting good value for your investment. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalised recommendations based on your unique health status and goals.
In Summary
This week, we have focused on the benefits of daily multivitamin supplements, stemming from research indicating their potential to enhance memory and mitigate cognitive ageing in older adults. In addition to cognitive benefits, daily multivitamin supplementation supports overall health by providing essential nutrients that may be lacking in the diet. Furthermore, to get the most out of your daily multi, always look for a good quality product from a reputable brand, such as the Active Life Capsules from Good Health Naturally.
References
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2024; DOI: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.12.011
