Integral Caregiver

A recent study on vitamins C and E sought to evaluate whether long-term vitamin E or C supplementation decreased the risk of cardiovascular disease in men.  This was one of the largest and longest studies of vitamins C and E, which are taken as supplements by millions of Americans (12%).  The results showed that those supplements do nothing to prevent heart disease in men.  In fact, the results also suggested that vitamin E even appeared to increase the risk of bleeding strokes, validating a concern identified in a previous study.

And this is the second study in two months to suggest that vitamin C may not be helpful.  In study results published last month involving the effects of large doses of vitamin C on cancer cells, researchers found that the vitamin protects cancer cells as well as healthy cells, and had the potential to reduce the ability of patients to respond positively to cancer therapy.

Such results underscore the importance of looking to the objective evidence when considering any supplements, herbal remedies, or just about any other therapy for that matter, from whatever medical tradition or system.  They also illustrate why caregivers and care receivers should always consult with their treating physicians about the use of any supplements.