Are vitamins worth the money?

Over 8.3 million Australians buy vitamins each year in a bid to better health, but are they all effective? Research suggests maybe not. A recent study reported in the Medical Journal

of Australia found calcium and vitamin D are of no benefit to those without a deficiency, while calcium could actually result in constipation, bloating and kidney stones – and may increase the risk of heart attack. In addition, combined vitamin B6 and B12 supplements have recently come under scrutiny with a US study finding that taking large daily doses can increase hip fracture risk by nearly 50 per cent. Moral of the story? Check with your doctor.