Antioxidant supplements for prevention of mortality in healthy participants and patients with various diseases

Researchers combined 78 randomized trials, meaning participants were assigned by chance to different treatments. The trials included 296,707 adults, some healthy and some with diseases. They compared antioxidant supplements, including vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, and selenium, with a dummy pill or no supplement. Across the studies, 21,484 people died. The supplements did not reduce deaths, and the combined results suggested a very small increase in deaths, although results varied by supplement and study quality.

What this means for you: Taking antioxidant pills to prevent death or extend life is not supported by this evidence. They may still be appropriate for a diagnosed deficiency or specific medical reason, but they are not a good general longevity purchase.