Multivitamins Under Microscope: What 400+ Studies Really Show

 



Americans spend $50 billion yearly on multivitamins, but a landmark NIH-funded study (2024) reveals shocking truths about their effectiveness:

Key Findings

  1. No Mortality Benefit

    • Annals of Internal Medicine: No difference in lifespan for regular users

  2. Potential Harms

    • Beta-carotene increases lung cancer risk in smokers

    • Folic acid may accelerate tumor growth

Science-Backed Guidelines

GroupWorthwhile Supplements
Pregnant womenFolate + DHA
ElderlyD3 + B12 methylcobalamin
IBD patientsLiquid multivitamin

3 Dangerous Myths

  1. "Insurance policy" → Water-soluble vitamins get excreted

  2. "More is better" → Fat-soluble vitamins accumulate

  3. "Energy boost" → Only works with diagnosed deficiencies

The American College of Physicians advises:
✔️ Test levels before supplementing
✔️ Choose active forms (ex: methylfolate)
✔️ Prioritize food-first nutrition

Still popping daily multis? Share your thoughts or tag someone who needs this reality check!


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