How are Telomeres Affected by Supplementation?

Why was this study done?

Telomeres are extensions of DNA strands that protect the integrity of our genetic information. The length of telomeres is thought to be a reflection of physiological age (and not chronological age) and biomarker of overall health status. This study was designed to explore the effects of long-term supplementation on telomere length.

What did the study find?

Long-term supplement users (over five years), had increased telomere length (11.2 %) when compared to controls who were not supplementing.

Cross-Sectional Analysis of Telomere Length in People 33-80 Years of Age: Effects of Dietary Supplementation.
Authors: Harley CB, Chan J, Blauwkamp M, Lau FC, McManus JF, Watson D, Hytopoulos E, Daggy BP. 2014.
Click here to read study presentation.