Most believe that vitamins, fruits, vegetables, and other supplements for cancer prevention help prevent the disease and improve overall immunity. However, randomized clinical trials did not show significant protective effects, such as those observed with a common supplement, beta-carotene.
Let me provide an overview of some key clinical trials conducted in various parts of the world and published in the scientific literature. As is often seen in scientific literature, findings are often contradictory. Medical professionals consider these findings and make a clinical decision before making recommendations.
Protective effects of alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) against prostate cancer, mixtures of retinol/zinc and beta-carotene/alpha-tocopherol/ selenium against stomach cancer, and selenium against total, long, and prostate cancers were reported. It was further discovered that an inverse association exists between bladder cancer and vitamin C, as well as oral and pharyngeal cancer, and several supplemental vitamins, cancers, and vitamin E. An inverse association between colon cancer and vitamin E was also noted. (Patterson, R. E et al., 1997)
Vitamin supplements for cancer prevention
The Linxian General Population and Dysplasia trials, conducted in Linxian, China, from 1985 to 1991, found a decreased risk of stomach cancer among participants who took a multivitamin supplement.
Two other trials, the vitamin E (Alpha-tocopherol) and beta-carotene cancer prevention study, found an increased risk of lung cancer among male cigarette smokers. (Greenwald, P et al., 2007) This finding was contrary to the conventional belief that consuming fruits and vegetables will build immunity against cancers.
However, while vitamin E and beta-carotene reduce radiotherapy toxicity among patients with head and neck cancer, it increases recurrence, especially among smokers. Antioxidants have mixed effects on the toxicity of chemotherapy. Vitamin D and calcium intake have been shown to improve bone health in cancer patients. Harvie, M (2014).
There is no clinical evidence to support an overall primary and secondary preventive effect of antioxidant supplements on cancer, and their consumption should not be overemphasized because the use of those might be harmful for some cancers. (Myung, S K et al.,2010)
This is particularly notable because it was observed that beta-carotene and vitamin E supplements were associated with lower lung cancer rates in men. (Albanes, D et al., 1995)
Another study says that nutritional prevention of cancer through beta-carotene supplementation should not be recommended. (Druesne-Pecollo, N et al., 2010)
Antioxidant and selenium
Antioxidant supplements can lead to an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers and an increase in overall mortality. There is a need to establish regulations and guidelines regarding the use of dietary supplements to reduce the risk of cancer. (Martinez, M. E et al., 2012)
Selenium supplements for cancer prevention have a potential preventive effect on gastrointestinal cancer. (Clark, L C et al., 1996; Bjelakovic, G et al., 2004) Increasing calcium and vitamin D intake substantially reduces the risk of all cancers in postmenopausal women. (Lappe, J M et al., 2007)
Based on the scientific review above, oncologists recommend a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. It is a clinical determination that has been arrived at after considering the pros and cons of this scientific evidence.
Vitamins, minerals, essential fats, and amino acids are important nutrients for our bodies. These varied nutrients give us energy and help our bodies grow and repair.
Cancer treatment may make it difficult to eat or drink properly. Cancer may prevent patients from absorbing certain nutrients from their food or drinks, resulting in low nutrient levels. Therefore, it is essential to take supplements under the guidance of a medical professional. We have seen from the brief scientific review above that dietary or nutritional supplements may not prevent, cure, or control the growth of cancer.
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