FSA: Balanced diet should suffice

Eating a balanced diet provides most people with all the nutrients they need, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said.

Its comments follow a review published by the Cochrane Library which said it found evidence that antioxidant supplements do not prolong life expectancy as some may hope and that beta-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin E may actually increase the risk of death.

The study did not uncover evidence that vitamin C and selenium have either positive or negative effects.

Although the FSA could not comment "in detail" on the study, it issued some advice for people concerned about vitamin use.

"Most people should be able to get all the nutrients they need by eating a varied and balanced diet," a statement said.

"If consumers do choose to take supplements, it is important they are informed and they may also wish to also consult with their GP. For some vitamins and minerals, taking too much or taking them for too long can cause harmful effects."