The release of a new study that questions the efficacy of antioxidant supplements, claiming they may in fact increase mortality, has roiled many industry experts and renewed debate.

According to researchers at Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark who looked at data from 67 studies on antioxidant supplements, trials do not support the idea that vitamins extend lifespan. But more than that, researchers claim that beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin E may even increase mortality.

The study published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews further states that future research should evaluate vitamin C and selenium for potential harm. It concludes that antioxidant supplements need to be considered medicinal products and should undergo sufficient evaluation before marketing.

Critics of the review say the meta-analysis was flawed and fails to acknowledge a larger body of evidence, which suggests antioxidant supplements can play an important role in maintaining and promoting overall health.

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) noted the review involved less than 9% of the available clinical trials on antioxidants, and excluded all 405 studies that reported no deaths. Moreover, the trade association argues that researchers excluded certain studies in order to support a predetermined hypothesis.

While debate concerning the efficacy and impact of antioxidant supplements continues, most nutritionists and health experts agree that there is no substitute for a healthy lifestyle, which involves plenty of exercise and a well-balanced diet that includes an abundance of fruits and vegetables.