Yes, you read correctly. Recent studies show multivitamin use in healthy people not only decreases healthiness but also increases the risk of death. The exact conclusion from one study is as follows:
“Most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death, their use is not justified, and they should be avoided. This message is especially true for the general population with no clear evidence of micronutrient deficiencies, who represent most supplement users in the United States and in other countries.”
All the essential vitamins and minerals that we need to stay healthy and avoid chronic disease are in the foods we eat. So, instead of supplementation we need to pay closer attention to our diet. A diet balanced in nutritional value as well as calorie intake is the key to our health and longevity.
A healthy diet should be high in protein, vegetables, fruits, and low in fat and processed or simple carbohydrates such as white rice and bread. Complex carbohydrates can be found in nuts, wheat bread, and brown or black rice and should be consumed in moderation. It is important to allow enough time for digestion and energy production, and to consume such carbohydrates mostly in the morning and at noon.
Many studies also reject the benefit of organic foods over non-organic. Organic labels do not necessarily indicate better or superior quality foods or vitamins. The key is to avoid highly processed foods and stick to more natural sources of nutrition.
Bon appétit!!!