Maggie's

WCRF - Recommendation Eight

Supplements and Cancer Prevention
 
The expert report recommends not using supplements to protect against cancer.
 
Supplements in high doses can be harmful to our health. There have been a lot of studies and research on this subject and certain high dose supplements can affect the risk of different cancers.
 
The general advice is to try and obtain the nutrients from foods as opposed to supplements. By eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and wholegrains etc our bodies will receive a variety of different nutrients that are beneficial to our health.
 
However, there are some groups of people where supplements may be beneficial, eg the elderly, those with iron deficiency anaemia. Always speak to your doctor/oncologist before taking any multivitamins or supplements.
 
The best way to achieve a variety of vitamins and minerals is to aim for "5 a day" fruit and vegetables.
For example: 1 banana, 1 apple, 1 bowl vegetable soup, 2-3 tablespoons vegetables, 2 plums, as a minimum. Fruit and vegetables are not only high in antioxidants, but also provide dietary fibre, which can help regulate bowel movements.