The Vitamin Myth: Why We Think We Need Supplements

www.theatlantic.com

Though focusing unduly on the Linus Pauling story - and ending with dramatic intention - the earlier paragraphs need some unpacking:

“On October 10, 2011, researchers from the University of Minnesota found that women who took supplemental multivitamins died at rates higher than those who didn’t. Two days later, researchers from the Cleveland Clinic found that men who took vitamin E had an increased risk of prostate cancer. "It’s been a tough week for vitamins,” said Carrie Gann of ABC News.

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“These findings weren’t new. Seven previous studies had already shown that vitamins increased the risk of cancer and heart disease and shortened lives. Still, in 2012, more than half of all Americans took some form of vitamin supplements.”

I would appreciate any insights into the Minnesota and “seven previous studies” (uncited) and any changes community members have made in light of recent vitamin studies.