A recent study has concluded that daily multivitamin consumption does not contribute to an increased lifespan.
A recent study has concluded that daily multivitamin consumption does not contribute to an increased lifespan.
A Large Study Raises Questions About the Efficacy of Multivitamins
Daily multivitamins are one of the most widely consumed supplements in the United States, with nearly one-third of adults taking them daily. However, a recent study has found that these supplements may not provide the health benefits we once thought. In fact, the study suggests that taking a daily multivitamin may actually be associated with a slightly higher mortality risk.
The Study
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from nearly 400,000 US adults without a history of chronic diseases over a 20-year period. The participants were divided into two groups: those who took a daily multivitamin and those who did not. The researchers found that taking a multivitamin did not lower the risk of all-cause mortality or mortality from specific chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.
The Findings
The study’s findings are significant because they suggest that multivitamins may not provide the health benefits we expect. In fact, the researchers found that individuals who took a daily multivitamin had a slightly higher mortality risk (4%) compared to those who did not take a multivitamin.
Experts Weigh In
Experts say that the study’s findings are consistent with prior research and recommendations from health organizations. “The patients that they enrolled are all patients without any chronic medical conditions. Essentially, they’re all healthy patients. Typically, if you are a healthy individual, and you are exercising, you’re eating a regular diet, you’re consuming your fruits and vegetables, you are getting your regular intake of vitamins and supplements,” said Dr. Parul M. Goyal, MD, an Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of Medicine for Seniors at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Dietitians Weigh In
Registered dietitians also agree that the study’s findings are consistent with their own recommendations. “My recommendations for patients are always personalized. In my practice at the Cleveland Clinic, a recommendation to take or skip a multivitamin is based on many factors, including the patient’s current health, dietary pattern, other supplements being taken, and personal health goals. An MVI is not insurance [from] an unhealthy dietary pattern,” said Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS RD, a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic and co-author of Regenerative Health.
Conclusions
The study’s findings have significant implications for the multivitamin industry and the millions of Americans who take daily multivitamins. While some individuals may still benefit from taking a multivitamin, the study’s findings suggest that the supplements may not be a panacea for overall health.
FAQs
Q: What are the study’s findings?
A: The study found that taking a daily multivitamin does not lower the risk of all-cause mortality or mortality from specific chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Q: How many people were included in the study?
A: The study included nearly 400,000 US adults without a history of chronic diseases over a 20-year period.
Q: Are there any benefits to taking a multivitamin?
A: While the study did not find any benefits to taking a multivitamin, some individuals may still benefit from taking a multivitamin if they have a poor diet, have anemia, diabetes, or are postmenopausal.
Q: Should I start or stop taking a multivitamin based on this study?
A: You should consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any nutritional supplement, including multivitamins.
