Experts reveal the dangers of high vitamin dosages
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How many of us dutifully swallow our daily vitamin pills, believing we're giving our bodies an extra health boost?
But new research suggested that more is not necessarily better when it comes to certain vitamins—it could be downright dangerous.
A recent study found that high doses of the popular vitamins C and E may accelerate the growth and spread of lung cancer tumours.
Vitamin C and E are important antioxidants that offer various health benefits. While it's generally best to obtain these vitamins through a balanced diet, supplements can benefit those with specific health concerns or deficiencies.
Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, promoting collagen production, and aiding wound healing. It also helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and supports cardiovascular health.
Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic diseases. It is particularly beneficial for skin health and may reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions.
But it turns out these vitamins aren't always heroes. At least, not in excess.
In a research study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, scientists injected mice with lung cancer cells and gave them increasing amounts of vitamins C and E in their drinking water.
They used regular ultrasound scans to watch how blood vessels that help cancer cells form solid tumours were developing.
The researchers found that while high levels of vitamins C and E don't directly cause lung cancer, their study suggested that they might speed up the growth of cancer in people who already have undiagnosed tumours.
Even though the study was done on mice, it raised concerns that people taking high doses of vitamin supplements could face similar risks.
According to Professor Martin Bergo, a specialist in biosciences and nutrition, the study's findings defied expectations.
'These antioxidants activate a mechanism that causes cancer tumours to form new blood vessels,' he said, adding: 'That's surprising since it was previously thought antioxidants have a protective effect.'
But don't worry, you don't need to avoid these vitamins in your regular diet. There's no evidence that getting them from everyday foods, where they are present in lower amounts, is harmful.
‘There isn't enough evidence to show that vitamin C and E supplements can increase your cancer risk,’ said Dr Claire Knight. ‘Most research [on these two supplements] to date has been carried out in animals, so further studies are needed.’
Dr Nisa Aslam agreed and added, ‘This study should not be used to suggest that humans avoid taking multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplements in appropriate doses.’
‘In fact, such a supplement will help to make sure that people bridge the gaps in their diet and achieve the daily recommended levels.’
So keep enjoying those healthy foods, folks!
It's important to note that while both vitamin C and vitamin E have numerous potential benefits, excessive supplementation can have adverse effects.
For most people, obtaining these vitamins through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts is usually sufficient to meet their daily needs.
As always, we must advise that before taking supplements, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional, as they can help determine whether supplementation is necessary and provide guidance on appropriate dosages to avoid potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
What are your thoughts on this topic, members? Let us know in the comments below!
But new research suggested that more is not necessarily better when it comes to certain vitamins—it could be downright dangerous.
A recent study found that high doses of the popular vitamins C and E may accelerate the growth and spread of lung cancer tumours.
Vitamin C and E are important antioxidants that offer various health benefits. While it's generally best to obtain these vitamins through a balanced diet, supplements can benefit those with specific health concerns or deficiencies.
High doses of Vitamins C and E could be doing more harm than good, says experts. Credit: Pexels.
Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, promoting collagen production, and aiding wound healing. It also helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and supports cardiovascular health.
Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic diseases. It is particularly beneficial for skin health and may reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions.
But it turns out these vitamins aren't always heroes. At least, not in excess.
In a research study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, scientists injected mice with lung cancer cells and gave them increasing amounts of vitamins C and E in their drinking water.
They used regular ultrasound scans to watch how blood vessels that help cancer cells form solid tumours were developing.
The researchers found that while high levels of vitamins C and E don't directly cause lung cancer, their study suggested that they might speed up the growth of cancer in people who already have undiagnosed tumours.
Even though the study was done on mice, it raised concerns that people taking high doses of vitamin supplements could face similar risks.
According to Professor Martin Bergo, a specialist in biosciences and nutrition, the study's findings defied expectations.
'These antioxidants activate a mechanism that causes cancer tumours to form new blood vessels,' he said, adding: 'That's surprising since it was previously thought antioxidants have a protective effect.'
But don't worry, you don't need to avoid these vitamins in your regular diet. There's no evidence that getting them from everyday foods, where they are present in lower amounts, is harmful.
‘There isn't enough evidence to show that vitamin C and E supplements can increase your cancer risk,’ said Dr Claire Knight. ‘Most research [on these two supplements] to date has been carried out in animals, so further studies are needed.’
Dr Nisa Aslam agreed and added, ‘This study should not be used to suggest that humans avoid taking multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplements in appropriate doses.’
‘In fact, such a supplement will help to make sure that people bridge the gaps in their diet and achieve the daily recommended levels.’
So keep enjoying those healthy foods, folks!
It's important to note that while both vitamin C and vitamin E have numerous potential benefits, excessive supplementation can have adverse effects.
For most people, obtaining these vitamins through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts is usually sufficient to meet their daily needs.
As always, we must advise that before taking supplements, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional, as they can help determine whether supplementation is necessary and provide guidance on appropriate dosages to avoid potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
What are your thoughts on this topic, members? Let us know in the comments below!
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