Pill half of UK adults take regularly linked to risk of early death

Millions of people in the UK now regularly take multivitamins

An everyday pill that nearly half of UK adults pop at least once a week has been associated with an increased risk of premature death, according to a study. American researchers examined the health records of 400,000 individuals without serious long-term conditions and discovered that those who consumed multi-vitamins had a slightly higher chance of dying within two decades compared to non-users.

Government scientists have stated: "multivitamin use to improve longevity is not supported". This recent study aligns with earlier research indicating similar outcomes.

For instance, research indicates that while natural beta-carotene can help prevent cancer, supplements containing beta-carotene may heighten the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease, as reported by The Guardian. Excessive iron intake has been linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dementia.

Dr Erikka Loftfield and her team at the National Cancer Institute in Maryland found no proof that daily multivitamin consumption reduced mortality rates. On the contrary, the study published in Jama Network revealed a 4% increase in the likelihood of early death among multivitamin users.

Dr Neal Barnard, a professor of medicine at George Washington University, commented, "The main point is the multivitamins are not helping. The science is not there."