The widespread practice of taking daily multivitamins among adults seeking to improve health is facing scrutiny following a comprehensive study questioning their efficacy.

Study Findings on Multivitamin Use and Mortality

Published in JAMA Network Open, a study led by researchers from the National Cancer Institute scrutinized data from nearly 400,000 healthy U.S. adults over two decades. Contrary to expectations, the study found no discernible link between regular multivitamin consumption and reduced risk of mortality. Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical contributor at CBS News, highlighted the study’s implications on “CBS Mornings,” emphasizing its findings across various causes of death such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

Dr. Gounder stressed that while multivitamins are commonly used, especially among those concerned about nutritional gaps, the study’s outcomes suggest that deriving vitamins from whole foods like fruits and vegetables may offer more comprehensive health benefits.

Nutritional Recommendations and Whole Foods

Echoing the study’s conclusions, Dr. Gounder advocated for obtaining vitamins primarily from natural sources rather than supplements. She noted that while some individuals, such as those with chronic conditions like kidney disease or digestive issues, may benefit from supplements, overall nutrition should prioritize balanced diets rich in fresh produce.

“There are certain populations where it makes sense, but not everybody,” Dr. Gounder affirmed, cautioning against generalized use of multivitamins without specific health considerations.

Targeted Use in Specific Populations

Addressing concerns raised by the study, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, representing the vitamin industry, defended the broader health benefits of multivitamins beyond mortality risk reduction. Dr. Gounder acknowledged these assertions, pointing out that while the study focused solely on mortality, multivitamins could potentially aid in cognitive health and mitigate conditions like macular degeneration.

The discussion underscores the nuanced approach required in recommending multivitamin use and tailoring advice to individual health needs and conditions. For instance, pregnant women benefit significantly from folate supplements to prevent birth defects, demonstrating targeted benefits amidst broader scrutiny.

As debates continue regarding the role of multivitamins in public health, the study prompts a reevaluation of their utility in mortality prevention versus specific health outcomes. Dr. Gounder’s insights underscore the complexity of nutritional science, advocating for personalized dietary approaches that integrate both whole foods and targeted supplementation based on individual health profiles.