Vitamins can revitalize aged, finds study

Researchers at McMaster University, Canada have revealed that a multifarious dietetic supplement tends to equalize signs of aging, especially reduced physical activity, by supplying energy to the cells.

David Rollo, associate professor of biology, McMaster University said, “As we all eventually learn, ageing diminishes our mind, fades our perception of the world and compromises our physical capacity.”

“Declining physical activity-- think of grandparents versus toddlers-- is one of the most reliable expressions of ageing and is also a good indicator of obesity and general mortality risk,” added Rollo.

Details of the study
The researchers conducted the study on mouse-model by administering the health supplement to one group of old mice, while the controls group was not given any supplement.

On analysis, the team found out that the group that was given the health supplement was able to uphold higher energy levels even in old age, as regards routine activities.

A 50 percent decline was seen in everyday physical activities in the other group.

Researchers supported the results by saying that the supplement tended to augment the movement of the mitochondria--sub-unit within a cell responsible to supply energy, and diminish the amount of free radicals, believed to result in aging.

The supplement was also found to give a longer life and enhanced cognitive abilities.

“For ageing humans, maintaining zestful living into later years may provide greater social and economic benefits than simply extending years of likely decrepitude,” stated Rollo.

Furthermore, Rollo said, “This holds great promise for extending the quality of life or ‘health span’ of humans.”

What is the supplement made of?
The health supplement comprises of vitamins B1, C, D, E, acetylsalicylic acid, beta carotene, folic acid, garlic, ginger root, green tea extract and herbs like ginkgo biloba and ginseng along with magnesium, melatonin, potassium, cod liver oil and flax seed oil.

The supplement was constituted keeping in mind the ingredients’ capacity to counteract the mechanisms responsible for aging.

Aging, apart from being a setback in itself, accompanies various health related problems like cardiovascular diseases and strokes, diabetes, cancers and other seditious conditions, stated the researchers.

They added that the involvement of medical discipline is required to prevent many of these diseases through similar supplements that result in a longer life span.

Details of the study appear in Experimental Biology and Medicine.