Many of us have taken supplements at some point in our lives, and we have even self-medicated, since many go without a prescription, it is enough to go to the pharmacy and say that we want a vitamin supplement, or we want omega 3, calcium, or something So. Now, a new study turns the tables and points out that some supplements cause cancer and heart attacks.
In this study, carried out in the United States, no company, pharmaceutical, or specific product is mentioned, only 3 supplements are mentioned, which are the most common in the country. The study has been published in the European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy.
Taking vitamin supplements is the most normal thing in the world for millions of people around the world, either by medical prescription or as self-medication. In both cases, the root of the problem can be solved, but it is easier to take one capsule a day and wait for the magic than to improve your diet and exercise.
The dark side of supplements
The third most consumed supplement in the United States is omega 3, which is a very necessary amino acid to strengthen neurotransmitters, helps maintain normal cholesterol levels, protects the heart, helps regulate blood clotting, reduces stress, improves learning ability, reduces blood pressure, etc.
So far everything seems very good, but supplementation does not seem to be as effective and have as positive results as the natural obtaining of omega 3 that is present in dairy products, fatty fish, chia seeds, soy oil, avocado, flax seeds, walnuts, etc.
Those who choose to take omega 3 supplements are usually because a medical professional has recommended it and it is usually in cases of high blood pressure, to reduce the chances of stroke, heart attack, and the like. However, the study has discovered that there are some very sensitive patients and prone to atrial fibrillation if they take this supplement and they are already patients with high triglyceride levels.
Taking supplements like crazy is not a good idea
Another supplement that is noted is calcium. A most common supplement that helps keep bones, teeth and heart strong, but for this supplement to be effective it must be accompanied by a good amount of vitamin D, otherwise calcium will not be absorbed and will accumulate in the arteries. The study concludes that it is best to include foods rich in calcium in the daily diet and avoid supplementation.
There are those who take vitamin supplements thinking that this prevents them from cancer, but the reality is quite different... The study has been clear, and explains that taking vitamins and other supplements does not prevent, but rather the opposite, increases the chances of heart disease y cancer in women and men.
Taking a vitamin E supplement every day has no proven benefits. What's more, beta-carotene supplements can be quite harmful, especially for those who are already at risk of cancer, such as smokers.