Here at Swisse, we’re proud to say that our products are backed by science. So, when we heard about new research that supports the benefits of multivitamins, we immediately wanted to find out more.
The study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, reveals that a daily multivitamin may help slow down the normal memory loss and forgetfulness that can be a part of getting older. It was conducted as a randomised control trial, which is considered the ‘gold standard’ of clinical trials.
A study in memory
For the study, a group of 3,562 individuals, aged 60 and older, were randomly provided with either a multivitamin or a placebo, and their cognitive function was assessed annually over the course of three years.
The men and women taking a daily multivitamin performed significantly better on memory testing when compared to the placebo group. In fact, researchers estimated that their episodic memory (the ability to recall something) was improved by the equivalent of 3.1 years. This means that they appeared to be 3.1 years ‘younger’ than the placebo group with regards to memory function.
The study’s participants were part of the broader Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a multiyear study which has enrolled over 21,000 older men and women to investigate the effects of cocoa supplements and multivitamins on a variety of health outcomes.
The benefits of a multi
Importantly, it’s not yet known which ingredient in the multivitamin might have impacted cognitive function, nor is it clear whether the same results would be achieved with a different brand of multivitamin to the one used in the study. However, we know that a complex mix of vitamins and minerals are needed for brain health, and it’s pleasing to see that a multivitamin can help support this.
Results like this are highly valued by Swisse, given our passion for and commitment to science, and it’s wonderful to see research from renowned institutions that supports the core foundations of our work. Along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, a multivitamin is a simple yet effective way to support overall health and wellbeing.
The full study, conducted by Harvard Medical School, Columbia University, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, can be viewed here: https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)48904-6/fulltext#secsectitle0135
The study is not sponsored or endorsed by Swisse.
Please consult with a healthcare practitioner before introducing any new supplement(s) into your health regimen and inform them of any underlying health issues or pharmaceutical medications you may be taking. Supplements may interact with pharmaceutical medications and should be taken with care. Always read the label of any supplements and follow the directions for use. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet and may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.