August 2024

Multivitamins and Longevity

The term "vitamin" was first introduced by scientist Casimir Funk, derived from "vital amine" based on Thiamine, now known as Vitamin B1. These essential micronutrients must be obtained through our diet and are needed in small amounts for proper bodily function.

In the 1930s, vitamins became available in pill form, gaining widespread attention in the 1950s as potential cures for various ailments. For instance, Vitamin C and B1 were instrumental in preventing diseases like scurvy and beriberi in sailors. Despite their historical significance, the benefits of vitamin supplementation for the general population remain debated. Food fortification has greatly reduced the incidence of such diseases.

A new study brings the best answer to date: daily multivitamins do not extend lifespan in healthy individuals. This study provides the most robust evidence to date suggesting that multivitamins do not confer significant benefits in terms of longevity.

>> Dr. Neuman says, "While this study focuses on the quantity of life, it does not address quality of life. There is merit in the mental health benefits of taking proactive steps for your well-being. For easy, evidence-based improvements, consider incorporating eight walnuts, five pieces of spinach, or performing five squats into your daily routine."a

BMI 2.0, introducing Body Roundness Index

BMI, or Body Mass Index, has been used since 1972 as a measure for overall health. It is one of the vital signs many folks are used to getting checked at the beginning of every appointment. There is controversy about whether this index has an excellent predictive value for disease. We have long known that waist circumference is closer tied to heart disease than BMI. A new index using waist circumference and height, the Body Roundness Index, showed a better correlation between heart disease and the chance of death in a new study.

>> Dr. Neuman says: “The BRI will be another fun way for us to experience shame. While figuring out who is at risk of disease is important, there are many more sophisticated (and helpful) ways than telling someone they are apple-shaped."

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) Helps Sleep Apnea

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), a medicine first used for diabetes and now popularized for weight loss, lowered the average number of breathing interruptions in people with moderate-severe sleep apnea by 20-23 events/hour in one year. The new study looked at folks who do and do not use CPAP (pressure mask to keep the airways open). 

>> Dr. Neuman says: “Sleep apnea is now added to the long list of conditions GLP-1 agonists (like semaglutide [Ozempic, WeGovy] and tirzepatide) treat: diabetes, obesity, heart disease, kidney disease, fatty liver, PCOS, and alcohol-related issues.”