I take a multi-vitamin, B complex, vitamins C, D, and E, and a Zinc tablet every morning. However, according to recent reports, older women who follow this same morning ritual may be putting their life in jeopardy rather than preserving it.
A recent Iowa Women’s Health Study found evidence to suggest that the use of vitamins and mineral supplements increased the risk of mortality in older women. Specifically, the association was strongest between iron supplement use and risk of death. Other vitamins and minerals reduced mortality rate, such as taking calcium which helps to decrease the likelihood of Osteoporosis and related complications.
The researchers looked at a total of 38,772 women with a mean age of 61.6 at the beginning of the study, which was in the year 1986. The women reported whether they were taking a supplement at the beginning of the study and then again in 1997 and 2004. Through December 28, 2008 a total of 15,594 women died, or 40.2%. Overall, the researchers found that the risk of death increased with the consumption of certain types of vitamins.
Needless to say, this is just one study. I won’t stop taking my vitamins and minerals based on the results of one study. The benefits of vitamins and minerals are supported by a breadth of research, which I will continue to trust until my doctor tells me to stop taking these supplements.
