According to new research, the vitamins and supplements that millions of people take to enhance their health are a bad investment. A team of Northwestern University researchers believe that their health advantages are primarily psychological and that some may even be harmful.
In 2018, nearly six out of ten Americans, per the CDC, routinely took nutritional supplements. Vitamin and supplement sales in the United States topped $50 billion in 2013. The research team, on the other hand, claims that there is no magic pill that will keep you healthy at all times. When it comes to staying healthy, diet and exercise are still the best ways to go.
Cardiac diseases and cancer are not prevented by multivitamins, coupled supplements, or single supplements, according to a systematic review of 84 studies. An unbiased group of specialists from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which makes evidence-based suggestions, was responsible for the study.
No one on the task force advises against taking multivitamins, but there is some concern that we would already be aware of the benefits of doing so. Beta-carotene supplements may increase the risk of lung cancer, according to experts.
A healthy diet is more important
Doctor Linder and colleagues report in JAMA that the number of Americans who take vitamins and supplements has surpassed the half-million mark, and that this number is expected to rise substantially over the next ten years. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables lower blood pressure and cancer risks, per this study’s authors.
Important vitamins and minerals may be harvested and bundled into a pill, thus reducing the time and cost of maintaining a healthy diet. Sadly, scientists explain that a variety of vitamins, plant chemicals, fiber, as well as other nutrients found in the whole fruits and vegetables work together to benefit your health.
When consumed alone, micronutrients may have a different effect on the body than when they are combined with a variety of other nutrients. According to Dr. Linder, even those who are vitamin deficient can reap the benefits of calcium and vitamin D supplements. They have been shown to reduce the risk of fractures and falls in the elderly.