Think Vitamin Supplements are Beneficial? Think Again!

by Alexandre Couto de Andrade

Free radicals are believed to contribute to the aging process. This is one of the main reasons why many people take antioxidant supplements such as vitamins C and E. Nevertheless, a German study suggests that these vitamins might actually shorten life through a yet unknown mechanism. A possible explanation for this fact is that free radicals might help the body prevent cellular damage after exercises.

Its worth noting, however, that when you get these vitamins through vegetables and fruits, the effects on your health seem to be good. This possibly happens because food contains other compounds that can exert a protective effect against the damages caused by the antioxidants. Besides, the supplements generally contain much higher doses of vitamins than those found in food.

Reference: “Vitamin supplements may cut benefits of exercise” (by Linda Geddes - New Scientist - issue 2708)