Personalized multivitamin
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Summary
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Some studies suggest that personalized multivitamins can reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improve specific health outcomes like hematologic status and quality of life, while other studies indicate no significant benefits for cancer prevention, cognitive function, or mortality risk.
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Personalized Multivitamin: Insights from Recent Research
Personalized Multivitamin and Micronutrient Deficiencies
Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in certain segments of the adult population in the United States. Multivitamin/multimineral supplements (MVMS) are widely used to address these deficiencies, reducing inadequacies in micronutrient intake. However, there is a potential risk of exceeding tolerable upper intake levels, particularly with nutrients like folic acid, which can have adverse effects. The field of nutrigenomics, which studies the interaction between nutrition and genetic variants, is expected to advance personalized nutrition, allowing for more targeted and effective supplementation strategies.
Multivitamins and Chronic Disease Prevention
The role of MVMS in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains controversial. Some observational studies and randomized controlled trials suggest that MVMS may reduce the risk of certain cancers and potentially CVD. For instance, the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) found no significant reduction in total invasive cancer or major site-specific cancers like breast and colorectal cancer with daily MVM use. However, a protective effect was observed for lung cancer. Similarly, a systematic review for the National Institutes of Health found mixed evidence on the efficacy of MVMS in preventing chronic diseases, highlighting the need for more robust studies.
Multivitamins and Cognitive Function
Despite widespread use, the impact of multivitamins on cognitive health, particularly in aging populations, is inconclusive. A long-term study involving male physicians aged 65 years or older found no significant cognitive benefits from daily multivitamin use over a 12-year period. This suggests that either the doses of vitamins were too low or the population was already well-nourished, limiting the potential benefits of supplementation.
Multivitamins and Psychological Wellbeing
The efficacy of multivitamins in improving psychological wellbeing is also debated. An 8-week randomized controlled trial among women experiencing psychological distress found no significant improvements in psychological state with multivitamin supplementation. However, there was some evidence of a positive impact on pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles, suggesting potential benefits in reducing inflammation.
Safety and Long-Term Use of Multivitamins
The safety of long-term multivitamin use has been a subject of research. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found no significant effect of multivitamin-multimineral treatment on all-cause mortality, vascular mortality, or cancer mortality, indicating that MVMS are generally safe for long-term use. Additionally, studies have shown that MVMS can improve hematologic status in specific populations, such as HIV-infected women and their children, further supporting their safety and efficacy in certain contexts.
Multivitamins and Infection Prevention
Multivitamins may also play a role in reducing infections, particularly in populations at risk for micronutrient deficiencies. A study found that participants taking multivitamin and mineral supplements reported fewer infections and days absent from work compared to those taking a placebo. This effect was particularly pronounced in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, a group at higher risk for micronutrient deficiencies.
Conclusion
The research on personalized multivitamins highlights their potential benefits in addressing micronutrient deficiencies and reducing the risk of certain diseases and infections. However, the evidence on their efficacy in preventing chronic diseases and improving cognitive and psychological health remains mixed. The safety of long-term use is well-supported, but personalized approaches considering individual nutritional needs and genetic factors may enhance the effectiveness of multivitamin supplementation. Further research, particularly in the field of nutrigenomics, is needed to fully realize the potential of personalized multivitamins.
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