Dietary supplement use in the United States, 2003-2006

J Nutr. 2011 Feb;141(2):261-6. doi: 10.3945/jn.110.133025. Epub 2010 Dec 22.

Abstract

Dietary supplement use has steadily increased over time since the 1970s; however, no current data exist for the U.S. population. Therefore, the purpose of this analysis was to estimate dietary supplement use using the NHANES 2003-2006, a nationally representative, cross-sectional survey. Dietary supplement use was analyzed for the U.S. population (≥1 y of age) by the DRI age groupings. Supplement use was measured through a questionnaire and was reported by 49% of the U.S. population (44% of males, 53% of females). Multivitamin-multimineral use was the most frequently reported dietary supplement (33%). The majority of people reported taking only 1 dietary supplement and did so on a daily basis. Dietary supplement use was lowest in obese adults and highest among non-Hispanic whites, older adults, and those with more than a high-school education. Between 28 and 30% reported using dietary supplements containing vitamins B-6, B-12, C, A, and E; 18-19% reported using iron, selenium, and chromium; and 26-27% reported using zinc- and magnesium-containing supplements. Botanical supplement use was more common in older than in younger age groups and was lowest in those aged 1-13 y but was reported by ~20% of adults. About one-half of the U.S. population and 70% of adults ≥ 71 y use dietary supplements; one-third use multivitamin-multimineral dietary supplements. Given the widespread use of supplements, data should be included with nutrient intakes from foods to correctly determine total nutrient exposure.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dietary Supplements / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Micronutrients / administration & dosage*
  • Middle Aged
  • Nutrition Surveys
  • Obesity / drug therapy
  • Phytotherapy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Micronutrients
  • Plant Extracts