This makes two in one week:
In yet another example of contradictory research, some scientists now believe that beta carotene does not offer any benefit in the fight against cancer. Prior to some of these new findings, all previous data I came across (and still continue to come across) posits just the opposite.
Beta carotene, an antioxidant found in such foods as squash and carrots, was -- and still is, in some circles -- considered a powerful cancer fighter and a combatant against free-radical damage. While the evidence regarding the latter still, at least ostensibly, holds true, some new research suggests that beta-carotene is completely ineffective as a cancer fighter (of course, it can be argued that by helping to fight against free-radical damage, beta carotene is also battling against the increased risk of developing cancer). Just the same, what is perhaps the even more shocking discovery is that beta carotene may actually increase the chances of lung cancers in smokers (note: beta carotene, although not effective in battling cancer, demonstrated signs of increasing lung cancer risk in smokers only. There was no evidence to suggest that beta carotene could increase one's risk of developing any other type of cancer. Simply, it just won't help fight it against it, though.).
Too many studies, too many dissenting opinions. All we want is accurate, well-researched information. Is that too much to ask?
