With the latest news from JAMA that neither vitamin C or E reduce the risk of prostate or total cancer in men, everyone is now asking, ‘what good are they then’?

“vitamins E and C are important as part of our antioxidant defenses, even if we have not yet documented specific preventive effects.” – Dr. Weill

According to WebMD, vitamin C is great for fighting against:

• cardiovascular disease,
• eye disease,
• immune system deficiencies,
• prenatal health problems, and even
• skin wrinkling.

With vitamin E, early lab studies are promising, but studies have been disappointing. The only established benefits are for people who have an actual deficiency, something rare for most of us, unless you have certain diseases like cystic fibrosis or digestive problems, or you’re on a very low-fat diet.

Fortunately, most people get enough vitamin E from:

• Eggs
• Fortified cereals and other foods
• Green leafy vegetables like spinach
• Nuts, and
• Vegetable oils

This latest study confirms the notion that ‘there is no magic pill’. The healthiest plan includes one with plenty of fruits and vegetables.