About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Most Popular Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Provide No Health Benefit

by Colleen Fleiss on May 29, 2018 at 2:02 AM
Most Popular Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Provide No Health Benefit

Most common vitamin and mineral supplements have no consistent benefit for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke or premature death, suggests a new study led by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto.

Published today in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the systematic review of existing data and single randomized control trials published in English from January 2012 to October 2017 found that multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium and vitamin C - the most common supplements - showed no advantage or added risk in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke or premature death. Generally, vitamin and mineral supplements are taken to add to nutrients that are found in food.

Advertisement


"We were surprised to find so few positive effects of the most common supplements that people consume," said Dr. David Jenkins*, the study's lead author. "Our review found that if you want to use multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium or vitamin C, it does no harm - but there is no apparent advantage either."

The study found folic acid alone and B-vitamins with folic acid may reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke. Meanwhile, niacin and antioxidants showed a very small effect that might signify an increased risk of death from any cause. "These findings suggest that people should be conscious of the supplements they're taking and ensure they're applicable to the specific vitamin or mineral deficiencies they have been advised of by their healthcare provider," Dr. Jenkins said.
Advertisement

His team reviewed supplement data that included A, B1, B2, B3 (niacin), B6, B9 (folic acid), C, D and E; and β-carotene; calcium; iron; zinc; magnesium; and selenium. The term 'multivitamin' in this review was used to describe supplements that include most vitamins and minerals, rather than a select few. "In the absence of significant positive data - apart from folic acid's potential reduction in the risk of stroke and heart disease - it's most beneficial to rely on a healthy diet to get your fill of vitamins and minerals," Dr. Jenkins said. "So far, no research on supplements has shown us anything better than healthy servings of less processed plant foods including vegetables, fruits and nuts."

Source: Eurekalert
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Drug News

Promising ALS Drug Candidate Extends Lifespan
The study explores whether CDNF could influence the progression of ALS in rodent models and to elucidate the mechanism through which it operates.
Amoxicillin-Calvulanate Vs Amoxicillin Preference in Child Sinusitis Treatment
Amoxicillin-clavulanate use in acute sinusitis patients is associated with a higher incidence of adverse events.
ADHD Medication Errors Surge by Nearly 300%
Professionals advocate for enhanced education of patients and caregivers, and creation of more effective child-resistant systems for monitoring ADHD medication.
Unknown Medication Side Effects Reported by 52% of Indian Families
In June, WHO raised concerns about 7 Indian cough syrups after complaints from several countries about contamination and health issues.
Painkillers With Hormonal Contraception Linked to Blood Clot Risk
Women using hormonal contraception, along with their healthcare providers, should explore alternative pain relief options instead of NSAIDs.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Most Popular Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Provide No Health Benefit Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests