In response to scientists who question the efficacy and safety of multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements, leading researchers from Oregon State University, Tufts University, and Harvard recently published a letter in the Annals of Internal Medicine advocating the use of MVM supplements. The researchers cite the largest and longest study of MVM supplements, the Physicians’ Health Study II (PHS II), which showed statistically significant health benefits from taking MVM supplements and suggested that MVM supplements may help decrease ones’ risk for chronic disease; these results, their letter adds, are consistent with other randomised, controlled trials. The researchers also point out that many US adults do not receive adequate amounts of a few nutrients. Partly for this reason, they argue that MVM supplements can play a critical role in filling nutritional gaps, without any adverse health effects.

Source: Annals of Internal Medicine