A recent study indicates that smoking and drinking alcohol may reverse the anticancer effect of beta- carotene. Beta carotene is an vitamin A
A recent study indicates that smoking and drinking alcohol may reverse the anticancer effect of beta- carotene. Beta carotene is an vitamin A precursor which in the past been touted for reducing the risk of colorectal polyp recurrence. Colorectal polyps are benign tumours that can eventually develop into colorectal cancer.// Tests were conducted on 864 participants who had previous polyps removed to see whether their smoking and alcohol intake altered the effects of beta-carotene on colorectal polyp recurrence. It revealed beta-carotene supplements doubled the risk of colorectal polyp recurrence in patients who smoked and drank more than one alcoholic drink a day. Among non-smokers and non-drinkers, beta-carotene was associated with a 44 per cent decrease in the risk of polyp recurrence. The researchers also warned their findings have broad implications for people who use beta-carotene supplements for their health benefits. Beta-carotene studies show the harmful effects caused by the supplements, hence asks for exercising caution while taking the supplements.
