Swedish researchers have thrown a spanner in the works on dietary supplements.
- A Swedish study shows that antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, may stimulate the growth of lung cancer tumors.
- Antioxidants naturally present in fruits and vegetables do not appear to have the same harmful effect.
- It is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
Indeed, according to a study published in the journal The Journal of Clinical Investigationantioxidants, including vitamins C and E, may stimulate the growth of lung cancer tumors.
Food supplements rich in vitamins C and E: who consumes them?
- People looking to boost their immunity and fight infections.
- Individuals wishing protect their cells free radicals.
- Those who want improve the health of their skin and hair.
- People wishing slow down agingt.
A discovery that challenges the received idea that antioxidants protect against cancer. Until now, it was thought that these substances, present in many fruits and vegetables, but also in food supplements, neutralized free radicals, molecules involved in aging and the development of certain chronic diseases, including cancer.
Disturbing results on pulmonary micro-tumors
L’study conducted by Swedish researchers involved lung microtumors taken from patients and implanted in mice. The results showed that mice fed a diet rich in vitamins C and E had greater tumor growth than those fed a normal diet. It is important to remember that antioxidants naturally present in fruits and vegetables do not appear to have the same harmful effect.
A complex mechanism
To explain this phenomenon, researchers put forward the idea that antioxidants stimulate the formation of new blood vessels around tumors. These blood vessels, essential for the supply of oxygen and nutrients, promote the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.
Important implications
These results call for caution regarding excessive consumption of dietary supplements rich in vitamins C and E, particularly in people at risk of lung cancer.
This is because these foods also contain other fibers and nutrients that may counteract the effects of antioxidants.
Food supplements: what to do?
It is therefore crucial to consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements, especially if you have a history of cancer or are at risk. It is up to the doctor to advise you on the relevance of these supplements and to offer you alternatives more suited to your needs.
