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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009
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Vitamins Can Kill, Warns Shocking New Study

'No benefit' found in antioxidants

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(Newser) – Antioxidant vitamin supplements do not improve health or prevent disease—and may even cause death, according to new research. In a stunning blow to millions who take vitamins, a review of 67 studies involving 230,000 users showed "no convincing evidence" that antioxidants had any benefit, and linked vitamin A supplements to a 16% increase in premature death, reports the Daily Telegraph.

"People given the antioxidants beta-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin E showed increased rates of mortality," said the lead researcher. Scientists theorize that some supplements may interfere with the body's natural defenses. A spokeswoman for the British Dietetic Association characterized the findings as "deeply worrying," and called for more regulation of vitamin and mineral supplements.

A new study says the there are no health benefits from taking vitamin supplements and some may actually cause death.
A new study says the there are no health benefits from taking vitamin supplements and some may actually cause death.   (Getty Images)
Vitamin and mineral supplements are a billion dollar industry but a new study says there's no evidence they promote good health.
Vitamin and mineral supplements are a billion dollar industry but a new study says there's no evidence they promote good health.   (Getty Images)
Nutritional supplements on a megastore shelf. A new study says there's no evidence that promore health and some increased mortality up to 16%.
Nutritional supplements on a megastore shelf. A new study says there's no evidence that promore health and some increased mortality up to 16%.   ((c) Clean Wal-Mart)
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vitamins • antioxidants • mortality • vitamin E • vitamin A • vitamin C • selenium • free radicals • Biocare • Health Supplements Information Service • beta carotene

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