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Beta-Carotene and Smokers: A Warning From Large Trials
Two large trials found that smokers who took high-dose beta-carotene supplements had more lung cancer, not less. Food sources were not the problem. The finding is why smokers should ask a clinician before any carotenoid or antioxidant capsule. Beta-carotene is not on the PureLung label.
Written by the PureLung label deskUpdated · 5 min read
What were the trials?
In the 1990s, researchers tested whether antioxidant supplements could lower lung cancer risk in people at high risk, such as heavy smokers and workers exposed to asbestos. In two large trials, those taking beta-carotene supplements had a higher rate of lung cancer than those who did not (NCI, Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention).
The result was a surprise and changed how antioxidant products are viewed.
Why it matters
The finding shows that a nutrient seen as protective in food can act differently as a high-dose pill, especially in an at-risk body. It also shows why a product's story, such as antioxidants protect cells, is not a safe guide to what the product does.
Eating fruit and vegetables with carotenoids has not been shown to cause the same harm. The warning concerns high-dose supplements in smokers.
What this means for lung products
Many lung and immune capsules carry antioxidants and plant pigments. A person who smokes or who used to smoke should ask a clinician before taking any such product. The label of PureLung lists lutein and zeaxanthin, which are related pigments, though not beta-carotene. They were not tested in those trials, and the amounts on the label are unknown, so a question to a clinician is still wise.
Other nutrient cautions in smokers
Beta-carotene is not the only nutrient where a pill and a plate behave differently.
- High-dose vitamin E has not shown lung benefit and carries its own cautions.
- Vitamin A in high doses can harm the liver and bones, and in pregnancy can harm the baby.
- Large single-nutrient pills are more likely to cause trouble than a varied diet.
PureLung: 60 capsules a bottlePacks of 1, 3 or 6 bottles · live price shown at checkout · guarantee as printed on the live listing
See packsWhat smokers can do
The CDC states that quitting is the best step for the lungs, and free help is available (CDC, Tips for Quitting Smoking). Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or ask a clinician about quit medicines (Smokefree.gov, Quit Smoking or Vaping). Ask also about lung cancer screening, which suits some current and former heavy smokers.
What does the PureLung label say?
The label shows 60 capsules, a serving of 2 and a 600 mg Proprietary Blend of eleven names with no single amount; it names no disease.
| Item | As printed |
|---|---|
| Form and count | Capsules, 60 per bottle; serving size 2 capsules; 30 servings |
| Blend per serving | Proprietary Blend, 600 mg: eleven names, no single amount printed |
| Inactive | Rice Flour, Magnesium Stearate, Silica Dioxide |
| Distributor | MJO, Sheridan, WY 82801 |
How to read a label if you smoke
Check each ingredient for carotenoids and vitamin A forms. Add up amounts from all supplements. Bring the labels to a pharmacist. Do not rely on a capsule to offset smoking. A pharmacist can add up your intake across products in a few minutes, and that check is free at most pharmacies.
For more on the topic, see the PureLung and smokers post and the quit smoking help guide.
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FAQ01
PureLung questions people ask
Is beta-carotene in PureLung?
No.
Is beta-carotene in carrots dangerous?
No. The warning concerns high-dose pills in smokers.
Should smokers avoid all supplements?
Not all, but they should ask a clinician.
Do antioxidants protect smokers?
Not as capsules, according to these trials.
What should smokers do?
Quit, and ask about screening.
Who wrote this02
Written and reviewed by
Pages built from the label images, seller information and linked NIH, FDA, CDC, FTC and peer-reviewed sources.
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