In this article, medical experts from The Health Standard share their expert perspective on the survey findings and provide evidence-based recommendations for Texans to protect their health.
Why is this important to you?
A large new study finds that taking a daily multivitamin does not reduce risk of death. This finding is especially important for McLennan County residents, where supplement use is common. For people with undiagnosed vitamin deficiencies, taking a daily multivitamin may be an unnecessary expense.
What this means for your health
This study suggests that relying on vitamins for longevity may not be an effective strategy because the body doesn’t actually absorb these synthetic vitamins.
Instead, positive behaviors such as eating a balanced diet and practicing a healthy lifestyle are more beneficial to overall health and longevity in McLennan County.
Key findings
No Death Benefit: The study found that taking a daily multivitamin did not reduce the risk of death compared with not taking one.
Multivitamins may have hidden risks:
- Beta-carotene supplements may increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers and asbestos workers.
- Vitamin K can interfere with the action of blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin.
- Iron supplements can cause iron overload, which can lead to heart disease, diabetes and dementia.
- Calcium and zinc can reduce the absorption of antibiotics.
- Synthetic vitamin E does not contain the full range of compounds found in food sources.
Expert insights from physicians and practical steps to take a more holistic approach to protecting your health
We consulted a panel of health experts, who added further detail to these findings.
Dr Adriana Davis, a family medicine specialist, commented: “This study highlights the importance of getting nutrients from whole foods, rather than relying solely on supplements. But also understand that your body can develop deficiencies over time, and there are supplements available for this. Talk to your healthcare team about it.”
Eat a balanced dietFamily Medicine Dr. Pooja Uppal advises, “When possible, try to get your vitamins and minerals from a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. With summer in full swing, visiting one of McLennan County’s many farmers’ markets is a great way to find fresh, nutritious produce.”
Regular health check-upsDr. Shelandra Bell, a family medicine physician in Michigan, recommends: “Schedule an annual checkup with your doctor to monitor your overall health and discuss any specific nutritional needs. Many McLennan County clinics offer comprehensive checkups.”
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Stress ManagementDr. Owen Muir, a New York psychiatrist, added, “Chronic stress can have negative effects on your health. Practice stress reduction techniques like meditation or yoga, or get some nature therapy in one of McLennan County’s many parks. Data consistently shows that spending time at home can help with symptoms of depression.”
There are several factors that can cause vitamin deficiencies.
Complex Nutrient Interactions: Whole foods contain many nutrients that work together in ways that benefit our health. These beneficial interactions may not occur in synthetic multivitamin preparations.
Healthy users: People who take multivitamins often lead healthier lifestyles in general, which can give the false impression that multivitamins are good for your health – and in turn, it gives the impression that it’s the vitamins, not healthy habits, that are good for your health.
As an observational study, Unmeasured factors may bias these findings, so further research is needed to fully understand the data.
Remember: If you think you may be deficient in micronutrients such as iron or zinc, one practical step is to consult a doctor, who can test for these deficiencies and prescribe appropriate supplements if necessary.
Conclusion
Vitamins are popular, but this study suggests they may not be the secret to a longer life. For residents of McLennan County, Texas, the most important steps to living longer appear to be maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active and working closely with health care providers to address their personal health needs.
Read the study in JAMA Network Open(Have a look at this)
Read more: Certain diets can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
5 Vitamins Commonly Taken in McLennan County
Vitamin D
Vitamin B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin E
Health Standard NewswireGet your nutrients from healthy foods instead.
Key Health and Medical Statistics for McLennan County, Texas
Did you know that there were 50,584 deaths from Heart disease In Texas in 2021?
31.7% McLennan County residents Have had a cholesterol test in the past 5 years.
12.3% McLennan County folks He was diagnosed with diabetes.
35.3% McLennan County folks I’m obese.
27.1% your McLennan County They report that they have no time for physical activity during the day.
Important Health Facts: The above health data directly impacts your physical health and plays a vital role in determining your overall health status.
Health Standards Newswire.
