The Claim

Long-term daily multivitamin supplementation has no effect on verbal memory performance in men aged 65 years or older, as demonstrated by a mean difference in cognitive change of -0.005 standard units (95% CI: -0.04 to 0.03) over 12 years compared to placebo.

Source: Long-Term Multivitamin Supplementation and Cognitive Function in Men

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
88score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Quantitative
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Taking a daily multivitamin for 12 years does not change verbal memory in men aged 65 or older, based on measurements showing no meaningful difference compared to those who took a placebo.

See the scientific wording

Long-term daily multivitamin supplementation does not improve verbal memory performance in men aged 65 years or older, as evidenced by no significant difference in change over 12 years compared to placebo, with a mean difference in cognitive change of -0.005 standard units (95% CI: -0.04 to 0.03).

Why this might work

The brain's circuits that store and recall words and stories do not change in strength or efficiency when older men take daily multivitamins, so their ability to remember verbal information stays the same over time.

Verified mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Long-Term Multivitamin Supplementation and Cognitive Function in Men

    This big, well-done study found that older men who took a daily multivitamin for 12 years remembered words and stories just as well—or poorly—as those who took a sugar pill. So, the multivitamin didn’t help their memory at all.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.