Multivitamin and multimineral supplements and cognitive function in older adults
Author Information
Author(s): Geraldine McNeill, Alison Avenell, Marion K Campbell, Jonathan A Cook, Philip C Hannaford, Mary M Kilonzo, Anne C Milne, Craig R Ramsay, D Gwyn Seymour, Audrey I Stephen, Luke D Vale
Primary Institution: University of Aberdeen
Hypothesis
Can daily supplementation with multivitamins and multiminerals help prevent cognitive decline in older adults?
Conclusion
The study found no evidence that daily multivitamin and multimineral supplements improve cognitive function in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants were randomly assigned to receive either the supplement or placebo for 12 months.
- Compliance with taking the tablets was over 78% in both groups.
- Results showed no significant difference in cognitive function between the supplemented and placebo groups.
Takeaway
Taking multivitamins and minerals every day doesn't seem to help older people think better or remember things.
Methodology
A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial with 910 participants aged 65 and over, comparing cognitive function before and after 12 months of supplementation.
Limitations
Participants were classified as at risk of nutritional deficiency using a questionnaire rather than actual blood tests.
Participant Demographics
910 men and women aged 65 years and over, with 97% living in the community.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI -0.6, 6.2 for verbal fluency in those aged 75 and over
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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