Never Take These 5 Supplements to Prevent Cancer, Warn Experts

Supplements do help you fill gaps in diet, but when it comes to preventing deadly diseases like cancer, you must avoid them

follow usfollow us
Supplements do not prevent cancer. And doctors mostly encourage you to take all the macro- and micronutrients through the food that you eat daily. However, supplements do help you fill gaps in your diet, but experts say when it comes to preventing deadly diseases like cancer, you must avoid them.
Here are five common and popular supplements that have been suggested to help prevent cancer, but they do not.

Beta carotene

Beta carotene is an antioxidant plant pigment that neutralises cell-damaging free radicals. Your body converts it into vitamin A, which is naturally found in foods like carrots, green vegetables, and sweet potatoes. Experts say that it is widely believed that those who eat more fruits are less likely to develop lung cancer.
But according to studies, smoking and taking beta carotene together only enhances the possibility of cancer. Experts believe that cherry-picking a particular nutrient and taking it in high doses that are not natural, unintended consequences will always be there.

Vitamin E

While vitamin E is linked to cancer prevention, most studies say the results have always been mixed. Also, there is not enough evidence that taking vitamin E supplements can prevent cancer, while research indicates that it can increase your risk of certain cancers, especially prostate cancer, when consumed in large doses.

Calcium

Calcium is among the key nutrients for strengthening your bones, muscle and nerve function, and blood clotting. Many times, you may be prescribed supplemental doses if you are at risk for calcium deficiency. However, studies say taking excess amounts of calcium – more than 1,000 milligrams from supplements daily – is associated with more than 50 per cent increased risk of cancer mortality.
While it is not yet clear why excess supplemental calcium has a detrimental impact on your health, the amount of calcium absorbed by the body may differ when it comes from food, as compared to supplements.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is linked to stronger immunity, as it helps keep you away from many diseases. However, experts believe that there is not much evidence to believe that you should take daily supplemental vitamin C.
This water-soluble vitamin, if taken in excess, has more risks compared to other supplements like beta carotene. However, it is best to eat foods high in vitamin C, like oranges. Doctors say a vitamin C-rich diet is associated with a lower incidence of several cancers, including breast, cervical, endometrial, esophageal, lung, pancreatic, and prostate cancer.

Vitamin D

While vitamin D is known to improve calcium absorption in your gut and strengthen bones, it is important to get it from food sources like dairy or sun exposure. But when it comes to cancer, there is no data to suggest that it decreases the risk of cancer in humans.

Other ways to reduce cancer risk

According to experts, a healthy lifestyle – a combination of diet and lifestyle strategies – is among the best ways to reduce the risk of cancer and support survivorship. Data says more than 40 per cent of cancer cases are preventable. A few strategies to do that include:
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Be physically active and exercise daily
  • Eat whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans
  • Limit fast foods, red and processed meats, and sugar-sweetened drinks
  • Stop smoking and drinking alcohol

Read more Articles