There are plenty of claims \u2014 both pro and con \u2014 around supplements. My son, who is an ER doctor and health expert, says they can be helpful, but there are also many claims with very limited evidence to back them up. Cardiologist Dr. Eric Topol, author of \u201cSuper Agers\u201d and a noted longevity expert, agrees.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t think any anti-aging supplements have been proven,\u201d he said. \u201cTaurine is a possible candidate (a nutrient supporting<\/a> heart, brain, muscle and metabolic health). As we age, we see lower levels of taurine in the blood, and that is correlated with more inflammation. But we need more trials.\u201d <\/p>\n Despite limited evidence that shows specifically how various supplements may promote longevity, older adults can\u2019t simply wait around for all of the evidence to be in. Many are taking a measured approach to vitamin supplements, anticipating that time and clinical trials may later prove them right \u2026 with at least some of the supplements that they are taking. <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a crap shoot,\u201d my friend Dwayne Guidry said. \u201cI\u2019m not doing anything crazy, but I\u2019m also not just sitting on my hands awaiting the results of clinical trials. I\u2019ll be pushing up daisies by the time those results are in.\u201d<\/p>\n Marleen Chappell, who takes seven different supplements daily, agreed. <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not a perfect process, but I want to be as healthy as I can for as long as I can,\u201d Chappell said. \u201cI\u2019m trying to outsmart my future self by taking a moderate approach. If nothing matters in the long run, no big deal. I didn\u2019t spend a lot of money and I didn\u2019t do anything weird.\u201d <\/p>\n While not necessarily boosting longevity, some supplements can act as a \u201csafety net\u201d to fill specific nutritional gaps caused by age-related physiological changes.<\/p>\n Bone health: Calcium<\/a> and vitamin D<\/a> are widely appreciated as critical for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially as the skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing vitamin D from sunlight.Cognitive support: Some recent studies<\/a> suggest that daily multivitamins may help slow memory decline<\/a> in older adults, particularly those with a history of cardiovascular disease.Addressing absorption issues: Seniors often have lower levels of stomach acid, making it harder to absorb vitamin B12<\/a> from food. Supplements can help prevent the nerve damage and fatigue associated with B12 deficiency.Energy and muscle function: Magnesium<\/a> supports muscle function and helps regulate blood sugar, which can be beneficial for seniors taking medications that deplete mineral levels.<\/p>\n My wife and I take most of these vitamin supplements. They may not all help, but they probably don\u2019t hurt, either. As my wife likes to say, if the vitamins we are swallowing simply pass through and come out the other end, we \u201chave the healthiest toilet in town.\u201d <\/p>\n Hey, we\u2019ve at least done the minimum for what seems like a positive approach. That being said, it\u2019s worth pointing out that whatever significant benefits can accrue from supplements, large-scale studies<\/a> have consistently found that multivitamins do not reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer or overall mortality in healthy adults. <\/p>\n Before starting any new vitamin supplement, experts also recommend reviewing prescribed medications and other health data with trusted health professionals to avoid contraindications and unnecessary reactions. This can also help you notice when a particular supplement is being overused. <\/p>\n While the evidence is inconclusive for most supplements, there are plenty of abundantly proven methods<\/a> that promote not only a longer life but also a healthier one: Consistent exercise, a largely plant-based diet and good sleep hygiene all make a big difference in living longer, better. Frequent social interaction with family and friends and healthy<\/a> spirituality<\/a> help mentally as well as physically in reducing some of the effects of aging. <\/p>\n So, while there\u2019s no \u201csilver bullet\u201d or magic pill that will ensure a longer, healthier life, there are some vitamin supplements that may have a positive benefit in daily living. None of them are nearly as effective, however, as eating well, staying active, getting enough sleep and making the most of positive relationships. <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/H2767F3PZVDDXEXJK53CUNZBZU.jpg\")
Forgtmenot (FMN) General Store managing partner Derek Tigue holds a bottle of ginseng extract, a dietary supplement Wednesday, April 15, 2020, in New York. | Kathy Willens, Associated Press <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/ZM5GDMSIGVEJDB35X7M26FJZOA.jpg\")
Multivitamin tablets are photographed in Philadelphia on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011. | Matt Rourke, Associated Press <\/p>\n