Taking multivitamins to stay healthy increases the risk of cancer.

Cardiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen pointed out the increasing interest in dietary supplements and the dangers this situation brings. Esen emphasized that without consulting a doctor, dose adjustments of supplements cannot be made and also drew attention to the issue of multivitamins, stating ‘Especially in men who take multivitamins, an increase in certain cancers such as prostate and lung cancer is observed.’ The popularity of dietary supplements has significantly increased after the Covid-19 pandemic, bringing along health risks. Associate Professor and Cardiology Specialist at Altınbaş University Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen addressed the dangers of indiscriminate use of dietary supplements, the need for supplementation with adequate nutrition, vitamin use for older adults and children, highlighting that dose adjustments of supplements used without doctor’s recommendation cannot be made. Esen emphasized that this could lead to various health problems and also mentioned the importance of questioning the safety of products purchased online and the dangers of indiscriminate use of sports supplements. In her evaluation where Prof. Dr. Esen shared important information about the risks of multivitamin use and correct intake methods of Vitamin D, she underlined the risks from kidney stones to cardiovascular diseases and even cancer risks. Healthy individuals do not need dietary supplements. Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen stated that dietary supplement use is generally not necessary for healthy individuals, but due to deteriorations in the food industry leading to a decrease in minerals contained in fruits and vegetables grown in soil, in some cases supplements may be necessary. She mentioned that if there are signs of nutritional deficiencies, it would be appropriate to take supplements after blood tests and doctor’s consultations. Prof. Dr. Esen also pointed out that products considered natural are treated with various substances when converted into capsules, and these substances can accumulate in the body triggering autoimmune diseases. Do not use anti-aging and Omega-3 for the elderly without consulting a doctor. Prof. Dr. Esen mentioned that there is no scientific basis for the necessity of vitamin use in the elderly, and despite the popularity of anti-aging and immune support products, she emphasized that not everyone needs to use such supplements. She specifically stated that products like omega-3 supplements should not be used without consulting a doctor and added, ‘For children, omega-3 and Vitamin D supplements have positive effects on brain development but these supplements should also be given under doctor’s supervision.’ Pay special attention to online sales, especially for sports supplements. Prof. Dr. Esen stated that with the increase in online shopping, vitamins and dietary supplements are also sold on these platforms, emphasizing that products from trusted brands can be purchased from safe websites, but generally fake products like herbal teas and weight loss products should not be purchased. She also mentioned that young individuals engaging in sports should be cautious about protein supplements and stated that these products should be purchased from known certified centers rather than online for a healthier choice. Prof. Dr. Esen continued her words by saying, ‘Sports supplements are frequently used by young people aged 15-25. These supplements may seem harmless but they are laboratory products. While natural protein sources are more beneficial in muscle building, artificial protein products can turn into artery-clogging substances in the intestines. Therefore, sports supplements should not be used without doctor’s supervision.’ ‘So even if you take Vitamin D and sit, it doesn’t work.’ Providing information on Vitamin D intake, Prof. Dr. Esen emphasized that this vitamin is produced in the body from cholesterol and exposure to sunlight is necessary for it to become active, stating, ‘Naturally, the body produces Vitamin D. However, exposure to sunlight is necessary for its activation. In other words, after Vitamin D is produced, it needs to come into contact with the sun through our skin to become active and benefit bone formation. A 1000-unit Vitamin D is sufficient and can be taken in all adults, but after taking it, you need to walk under the sun with your arms and legs exposed for 15-20 minutes. So, even if you take Vitamin D and sit, it doesn’t work. We need to mention this.’ Cancer risk in multivitamins! Lastly, Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen from Altınbaş University mentioned that long-term studies have been conducted on the use of multivitamins, and as a result, dangers leading to cancer can arise. She concluded her words by stating, ‘A study was conducted in America where individuals who took multivitamins for 10-15 years were monitored. Especially in men who take multivitamins, an increase in prostate and lung cancers is observed. Therefore, before taking multivitamins, it is necessary to know your risks, what diseases your body is susceptible to, and whether your body needs them. Saying ‘I take multivitamins, I am very healthy’ is not possible. As you can see, it can also lead to some cancers.’