Some supplements pose risks for older women

OLDER women who consume multivitamins and other dietary supplements appear to be at greater risk of dying earlier, according to a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Of the 15 supplements studied, iron was most strongly linked to an increased risk of mortality, whilst calcium was the only supplement associated with a lower risk of death. Findings for both iron and calcium supplements were replicated in separate, short-term analyses with follow-up occurring at four years, six years and 10 years.

"Based on existing evidence, we see little justification for the general and widespread use of dietary supplements," the authors conclude. "We recommend that they be used with strong medically based cause, such as symptomatic nutrient deficiency disease." (Photo ? Neil Speers | Dreamstime.com)