New study links folate to slower epigenetic aging

Balchem, a leading global manufacturer of specialty ingredients for human nutrition and health, is calling attention to a large cross-sectional study reporting that older adults with higher serum folate are more likely to have a lower “epigenetic age deviation”^.[1] The study, published recently in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, shines a light on the importance of folate in cellular and epigenetic health.

Epigenetics refers to modifications that influence how and where genes are expressed without changing the genetic code^.[2] One of the most common epigenetic modifications is DNA methylation – the addition of CH3 or methyl groups to DNA which helps to regulate genomic stability, gene expression and more^.[3],[4]  Epigenetics and patterns of DNA methylation change with age^,[5] and a growing body of science suggests that these changes can influence health and wellbeing in later life^.[6]  As such, methylation and epigenetic health are gaining significant interest from both brands and consumers in the healthy aging space. This latest research reveals the potential of folate as a tool for supplement innovation in this area.

Folate and epigenetic age

The new study analyzed the cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) – a large, gold-standard data set – using powerful, cutting-edge machine learning tools known as epigenetic clocks. Epigenetic clocks examine the levels of DNA methylation at specific points on the genome that change with age, helping to quantify variations in biological versus chronological aging. The difference is known as epigenetic age deviation (EAD)^.[7]

“Put simply, our DNA and our cells can ‘look’ older than we actually are,” comments Eric Ciappio, PhD, RD, Senior Manager, Nutrition Science, Balchem HNH. “The good news is, a number of lifestyle factors can influence epigenetic age and EAD, including nutrients that help contribute to the body’s methyl pool and support healthy epigenetic function. This recent study was particularly interesting as it tested for associations between EAD and nutritional biomarkers linked to one-carbon metabolism – an interconnected biochemical network with various molecules accepting and donating methyl groups to support balanced methylation where it’s needed most.”

Analyzing data from over 2,000 adults aged 50-85 years old, researchers found that increased serum folate (a promotor of one carbon metabolism) was associated with lower EAD in several of the epigenetic clock tools examined. Conversely, increased levels of blood homocysteine (an indicator of one carbon metabolism deficiencies) were associated with higher EAD in several epigenetic clock tests as well.

“These findings underscore the importance of folate in epigenetic health, as it supplies methyl groups to be used in DNA methylation,” comments Ciappio. “As we age, our global DNA methylation levels decrease.⁵ This is where folate’s methyl-donor function comes into play – helping to maintain cellular health and optimize the integrity of our genetic material.”

The new frontier of healthy aging

As part of its broader commitment to advancing health span and cellular vitality, Balchem is investing in science-backed solutions that support methylation and epigenetic health – emerging frontiers in the healthy aging space.

“In recent years, terms like 'cellular health' and 'epigenetic health' have started to move from scientific literature into the healthy aging mainstream," adds Lauren Eisen, Sr. Marketing & Business Development Manager, Minerals and Nutrients at Balchem. “This study signals the potential for folate to drive innovation in this space, as a crucial supplier of methyl (CH3) groups for methylation of DNA and throughout the body. The key point here is that every methyl counts. That’s why we developed our first-of-its-kind, choline-enriched folate salt, Optifolin+®, which delivers seven times the methyl groups found in standard folate forms. Optifolin+® empowers supplement brands to lead in the healthy aging category, enabling them to create next-generation supplements that support balanced methylation and epigenetic health throughout life.”

For more information about Balchem and its choline-enriched folate brand Optifolin+®, visit: https://balchem.com/hnh/mn/optifolinplus/