Multi-vitamins could trigger health risks

WCRF is a global network of cancer charities dedicated to the prevention and control of the disease.

Wiseman said that it is not necessary that food supplements would contain only good nutrients. They may also contain bad substances like synthetic fibre which cannot be processed by the digestive system.

Antioxidants likely to cause cancer, diabetes
Previous studies also suggest that certain food supplements also known as antioxidants could actually increase the risk of cancer. For instance, high consumption of beta carotene--inactive form of Vitamin A--could cause lung cancer, especially in people who smoke.

Antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, are considered to trigger the activity of cancer-causing compounds known as free radicals found in the body cells.

Health experts say that women who consume large amounts of vitamin B2, B6 or B12 supplements are at an increased risk of developing womb (uterus) cancer.

These antioxidants may also interfere with blood sugar levels which can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes. However, moderate doses of the multivitamins are considered to be less harmful, they said.

"Many people think they can reduce their cancer risk by taking supplements, but the evidence does not support this.

"Just because a dietary pattern that provides a relatively high level of a particular nutrient might protect against cancer, it does not mean that taking it in tablet form will have the same effect. In fact, at high doses the effect of these micronutrients is unpredictable and can be harmful to health.” Wiseman said.

Wiseman concluded, since the exact benefits and risks of the antioxidants are still unknown, therefore, one should eat a healthy, plant based-diet that includes fruits and vegetables and seldom rely on the food supplements.

However, those who are advised to take up the food supplements should follow proper medical guidelines.