A recent study from Texas A&M University’s AgriLife Research indicates that while folates—vitamin B9 in its natural form—are generally beneficial for younger individuals, reducing their intake might improve metabolic function in older adults. The research, conducted on mice, reveals that lower folate levels can facilitate a smoother transition between sleep and waking metabolism.
Mice, both young and middle-aged, were divided into groups receiving either a standard diet or one deficient in folates. The study observed that the folate-deprived mice did not develop anemia, maintained body weight, and in some cases, even gained weight compared to their standard-diet counterparts. However, the impact on longevity was not assessed as all mice were euthanized at 120 weeks. Both groups showed similar life expectancies.
Senior author Michael Polymenis, PharmD, PhD, noted that aging impairs the body’s ability to quickly switch between fat and carbohydrate metabolism. This inefficiency might affect health and energy levels. Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, highlighted the importance of folates in DNA synthesis, cell repair, and cardiovascular health, particularly in older adults.
The study also raised questions about how folate-deprived mice maintained sufficient red blood cells. Polymenis speculated that gut bacteria might contribute to folate levels, suggesting that dietary folate is not the sole source.
Despite these findings, Polymenis urges caution, emphasizing that further research is needed before making dietary recommendations for older adults. For now, Routhenstein advises maintaining a diet rich in folate to support overall health. Future possibilities might include folate-reducing additives, similar to current fortification practices for other nutrients.
The study, published in Life Science Alliance, underscores the need for additional research to confirm these effects in humans before any dietary changes are suggested.