Vitamins' may shorten the life "

Scientists claim that vitamins not only prolong life, but on the contrary, can lead to premature death.

A team from the University of Copenhagen studied the results of 67 scientific studies. On this basis, they concluded that there is "compelling evidence" to support the opinion that antioxidants help to increase life expectancy.

On the contrary, they argue, vitamins A and E interfere with the body's natural defense mechanisms.

"In addition, beta-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin E seem to increase the risk of premature death," - the report says Danish scientists.

From 817 scientific research in this field, they selected a few dozen papers on the effects of beta-carotene, vitamins A, C and E and selenium. It is they who, in their opinion, the most objectively reflect the overall picture of the use of food additives.

It is believed that these additives may prevent the "oxidative stress" in the tissues of the organism by destroying the free radicals, which are believed to cause this.

"Oxidative stress" is observed in some serious diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

Good nutrition
Total participated in the study 233 thousand. People - both sick and healthy - take nutritional supplements.

Taking into account various factors, as well as to exclude from consideration a further 20 works, Danish scientists have concluded that vitamin A increases risk of premature death by 16%, beta-carotene - 7%, and vitamin E - 4%.

Vitamin C seems to have no effect on life expectancy and, according to scientists, more research is needed on the effect of vitamin C and selenium.

KEY FACTS ABOUT VITAMIN



Vitamin A: found in oily fish, eggs and liver; strengthens the immune system, improve eyesight and skin condition.
Vitamin C: Found in many fruits and vegetables; helps in the healing of wounds and absorption of iron by the body, strengthens the immune system.
Vitamin E: found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds; improves blood circulation, helps older people stay active.
Beta-carotene: found in red and orange vegetables; improves vision and contributes to the preservation of mental activity.
Selenium: found in butter, nuts, liver and fish; strengthens the immune system.
How many people take vitamins in the West? 10-20% of the population
How much is estimated the global market? Approximately 2, 5 billion. Dollars

The researchers reported that "found no evidence that antioxidants help prevent disease».

It is unclear exactly how the supplements could have similar effects. Scientists have suggested that it could be seen, because of their impact on the work of the body. In particular, beta-carotene, is believed to affect the consumption of fats.



The Department of Health indicates that you should try to obtain the necessary vitamins from food and avoid taking nutritional supplements, which in the UK market exceeds 650 million. Dollars.

"Caution must be exercised in the use of high doses of purified supplements, including antioxidants and minerals" - said the ministry spokesman.

"Their impact on long-term health is not yet fully understood, and it is impossible to believe that taking them completely harmless," - he added.

Other properties

However, representatives of the Information Service on Food Additives, which is funded by the Association of Organizations of the sale, point out that for many people to get all the necessary substances to food is simply impossible.

"For the millions of people who can not achieve this, vitamins are a useful supplement, and they should not stop taking them," - said spokeswoman Pamela Mason service.

Nutritionist Patrick Holford points out that in the current study compared the only work in which vitamins are risen impact on mortality reduction, and studied their other beneficial properties.

"Antioxidants - this is not a magic remedy. We should not think that they can be used for a long time to live without giving up their bad habits, "- he said.

"However, if used properly in conjunction with a healthy diet, active lifestyle and not smoking, antioxidants may play an important role in maintaining health," - he added.

P.s. I do not know what to believe so. Until recently I swallowed vitamins, but now somehow it became scary. And suddenly ...



Igor Irtenev: On the dangers of vitamins

I remember a time when of wide leg,
In carrying out the mandate of doctors,
Three times a day took out the vitamin,
Talking to himself: "Be Healthy!».

Is Well could I, naive, if present,
Living thoughtless days,
How many of those vitamins concealed damage,
How they are life-threatening.

Better if I gained beriberi,
Scoliosis, or periodontal disease,
It would be better Coke finally took through the nose,
If you already put the question.

And now, on his last turn,
Getting the remnants of the mind,
Medicine in the face, I toss the pills
With an angry exclamation: "Eat them yourself!».

A source