Are there reasons older people, in particular, should be cautious in supplementing their diets with the nutrients and doses used in the AREDS?
Yes. There are reasons to be cautious in using high-dose vitamins and minerals, particularly among older people. Many older Americans take prescription medications, and a considerable number use over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal medicines. High-dose nutrients can interfere with medications and interact with other nutrients to decrease the nutrients’ absorption into the body. This can ultimately affect a person’s nutritional and health status. For example, the zinc concentration in the AREDS formulation is at a very high dose and could cause copper deficiency anemia. To prevent this, copper was added to the AREDS formulation. People who are being treated for chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes should not take high dose nutrients without talking with their doctors. Generally, self-medication with high doses of vitamins and minerals — such as those in the AREDS formulation — is not recommended. Individuals who are considering taking the ARE
