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There is little evidence that vitamin and mineral supplements protect people from cancer and heart problems, according to a new analysis.

Based on those findings, a US government-backed panel issued draft recommendations that echo its previous conclusion: It cannot recommend for or against taking vitamins and minerals to prevent those conditions. "

At this point in time the science is not sufficient for us to estimate how much benefit or harm there is from taking vitamin or multivitamin supplements to prevent cancer or heart disease," says Dr Michael LeFevre, co-vice-chairman of the US Preventive Services Task Force, which issues recommendations to help guide doctors and health systems.

The panel's draft statement also says neither beta-carotene nor vitamin E should be taken to prevent heart disease or cancer.