Vitamin Supplements and Cancer: Expert Cautions Against Unsupervised Dietary Use

A recent comprehensive review published in Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy underscores the importance of cautious use of dietary supplements and fad diets in the context of cancer prevention and treatment. Led by Dr. Salvatore Cortellino and Professor Antonio Giordano of the Sbarro Health Research Organization (SHRO), the study critically evaluates the widespread belief, reinforced by media and wellness industries, that over-the-counter vitamins and restrictive diets can independently prolong lifespan or improve cancer outcomes.

The authors highlight that although vitamin deficiencies are common among cancer patients and may increase cancer risk, supplementing with pharmaceutical-grade multivitamins has not demonstrated clear clinical benefits. Instead, they emphasize that maintaining a balanced diet, particularly the Mediterranean diet, remains the most reliable strategy to ensure adequate micronutrient levels.

The review raises concerns about hypervitaminosis—a condition caused by excessive vitamin intake without proper medical oversight—which can potentially accelerate tumor growth in cancer patients. It also cautions against popular but insufficiently validated dietary regimens such as ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting, or strict veganism. These approaches, while promising in preclinical studies, lack robust evidence in humans and may worsen nutritional deficiencies or lead to cachexia, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly or frail.

Professor Giordano stresses, "Following dietary trends without medical guidance can be ineffective or harmful for cancer patients. Evidence-based medicine and personalized nutritional plans are essential." The authors recommend consulting healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes or starting supplements, to avoid adverse effects and ensure optimal care.

In conclusion, the study reaffirms that health maintenance relies on achieving a physiological balance through proper caloric intake, diverse wholesome foods, and appropriate physical activity, all aligned with established guidelines such as the European Code Against Cancer and the Mediterranean lifestyle.