“No consistent health benefits” from common vitamin and mineral supplements, study suggests

29 May 2018 --- A study published in the Journal of American College of Cardiology has found that commonly consumed vitamin and mineral supplements may offer no consistent health benefits. Researchers from the St Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto in Canada conducted a systematic review of existing data and single randomized control trials and concluded that no supplements demonstrated advantages in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke or premature death. Overall, they recommend a healthy diet for the adequate intake of nutrients.

“We were surprised to find so few positive effects of the most common supplements that people consume,” says Dr. David Jenkins, the study's lead author. “Our review found that if you want to use multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium or vitamin C, it does no harm – but there is no apparent advantage either.”

The researchers were particularly surprised that vitamin d did not offer as much benefit as previously thought, Dr. Jenkins tells NutritionInsight. 

“In the absence of significant positive data – apart from folic acid's potential reduction in the risk of stroke and heart disease – it's most beneficial to rely on a healthy diet to get your fill of vitamins and minerals,” Dr. Jenkins said. “So far, no research on supplements has shown us anything better than healthy servings of less processed plant foods including vegetables, fruits and nuts.”

The most common supplements were analyzed: multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium and vitamin C.

The study found that folic acid alone and B-vitamins with folic acid could reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke. Meanwhile, niacin and antioxidants showed a very small effect that might signify an increased risk of death from any cause.

“These findings suggest that people should be conscious of the supplements they're taking and ensure they're applicable to the specific vitamin or mineral deficiencies they have been advised of by their healthcare provider,” says Dr. Jenkins.

Folic acid has a strong, healthy reputation for pre-natal nutrition. You can read more on the topic here.