Synthetic Vitamins Put Smokers At Increased Risk of Lung and Prostate Cancer




vitamins

Taking multivitamins has become a morning routine for many Americans. However, a new study published recently at the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, warns against taking popular vitamin supplements because of their unpredictable health effects. The study has revealed that synthetic vitamins do not protect us from developing lung cancer and other diseases. In fact, certain vitamin supplementation can put smokers at an increased risk of lung cancer and other malignant tumours.

The study, which focused on the assumed beneficial role of vitamin supplementation for human health, involved almost 78,000 men and women over the age of 50. Within a period of several years, the participants’ health was closely monitored and correlated with their reported history of smoking and taking vitamin pills. As a result, researchers came to the conclusion that multivitamins, as well as foliate and isolated vitamins C and E, did not reduce the risk of lung cancer. Moreover, a daily intake of vitamin E in a pill form was linked to an increase incidence of developing lung cancer in smokers.

Some previous studies also found a correlation between taking synthetic beta-carotenes and an elevated risk of lung cancer in smokers. Another study, conducted by the US National Cancer Institute, has found that men who were taking daily high doses of multivitamins significantly increased their chances of succumbing to prostate cancer.

These new research should warn people, both smokers and non-smokers, against taking laboratory-produced vitamins without diagnosed vitamin deficiencies. In fact, “magic” vitamin pills not only can be useless in protecting us from disease, but also can be harmful and disease-inducing. It is always better to obtain all necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet.

Naturally-occurring, fat-soluble vitamin E is contained in sufficient amounts in unrefined olive oil, whole grains, organ meats, butterfat, and green vegetables. When ingested alongside with such trace elements as selenium and zinc, vitamin E de-activates free radicals, combats aging, and prevents heart disease and various types of cancer. In small quantities, it is needed for healthy circulation and the regeneration of tissues. Synthetic vitamin E, as well as high doses of natural, but isolated vitamin E, can produce a harmful effect on the person’s health.

Beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant, can be found in plant sources, especially yellow, orange, and red vegetables and fruits. Synthetic beta-carotene from supplements is now proven to be toxic, especially to smokers, people on poor diets, and those with damaged liver function.

These new research on the unfortunate downside of popular vitamin supplements should warn smokers that popping down synthetic pills will not protect them from lung cancer and other tobacco-induced diseases. The best way to prevent the disease is still to quit smoking.

Sylvia Dutka

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Posted on March 8, 2008 
Filed Under Facts on Smoking, Smoking and Health, Stop Smoking News, Tobacco Research

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