Vitamins 'could shorten lifespan'
Research has produced mixed results Taking certain vitamin supplements may adversely affect people's lifespan, researchers have suggested. Millions worldwide use antioxidant supplements such as vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene. Looking at dozens of previous research studies, Copenhagen University researchers suggested these appeared to raise, not lower, the risk of death. A supplements industry expert said the Journal of the American Medical Association study was fatally flawed. But nutritionists said it reinforced the need to eat a balanced diet, rather than relying on supplements. While vitamin supplements have been popular for decades, the precise benefits they offer - if any - remain uncertain, despite hundreds of research projects.