Researchers studied nutrition and physical function in 698 people aged 65 and older in Tuscany, Italy, conducting baseline examinations followed by three-year follow-up assessments, from 1998 to 2003.
In particular the scientists, led by Benedetta Bartali of the Yale University School of Medicine, measured levels of micronutrients in the blood, including vitamins B6, B12, D and E. They found that, with other factors taken into account, only low levels of vitamin E were significantly associated with physical decline.
What the study found
"Although the findings from this epidemiological study cannot establish causality, they provide a solid base that low concentration of vitamin E contributes to decline in physical function," the study's authors wrote.
"Clinical trials may be warranted to determine whether optimal concentration of vitamin E reduces functional decline and the onset of disability in older persons with a low concentration of vitamin E," they said.
Participants in the study did not take vitamin supplements, nor do the researchers recommend them. They noted that a sufficient amount of vitamin E can easily be obtained from almonds, tomato sauce and sunflower seeds, among other sources. – (Sapa)
Read more:
Are vitamin supplements fatal?
Vit. C, E cuts kidney cancer risk