SouthernWorldwide.com – A recent study indicates a shift in American health habits, with many individuals opting for more targeted supplements over traditional multivitamins.
The research, spanning 25 years from 1999 to 2023, analyzed data from over 63,000 adults aged 20 and older. It revealed a general increase in supplement consumption across the population.
Overall, the percentage of U.S. adults using dietary supplements rose from 51% to 60%. This trend was particularly pronounced among older adults, with usage increasing from 62% to 78% in those aged 65 and above.
The study also highlighted demographic trends in supplement use. It was found to be more prevalent among women, individuals with higher incomes or educational attainment, and those who have health insurance.
Conversely, the use of multivitamins saw a slight decline during the same period, decreasing from 35% to 31%. However, the intake of individual vitamins and minerals, separate from multivitamins, increased.
Specific supplements that experienced significant growth in usage include vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, vitamin B12, and turmeric. The research also noted a rise in the popularity of other supplements such as ashwagandha, elderberry, collagen, hyaluronic acid, probiotics, and prebiotics.
The post-pandemic era, in particular, saw a surge in products marketed for immune support, with vitamin D and zinc being key components. This trend aligns with the growing interest in the longevity movement.
More people are actively seeking supplements designed to address specific health objectives, including enhancing immune function, reducing inflammation, improving gut health, promoting skin health, and supporting joint health.
However, the researchers cautioned that while the study shows an increase in supplement usage, it does not definitively prove the effectiveness of these products for the stated health benefits.
“I love that people are getting more educated and more intentional,” said one expert, “I just wish they were being advised by more doctors and dietitians and less by ‘wellness influencers’ who are likely not doing the due diligence on the quality and efficacy of the supplements they’re promoting.”
There is a noted concern that the decline in all-in-one multivitamin use is occurring despite the widespread availability of GLP-1 weight-loss medications. These medications can lead to reduced food intake, potentially causing nutrient gaps.
“A multivitamin is where I think people should start as the foundation to help bridge nutrient gaps, especially for people on a GLP-1 who are eating about 15% to 30% less, and therefore likely consuming 15% to 30% less vitamins and minerals,” stated the expert. “I recommend that everyone on a GLP-1 medication [should] take a multivitamin daily.”
In addition to multivitamins, daily probiotics, magnesium, and vitamin D3 were also identified as beneficial for many individuals. Elderberry was also highlighted as a potentially effective supplement for bolstering the immune system, especially during cold season.
Collagen supplements have shown promise in benefiting skin and joint health, making them a worthwhile consideration for aging individuals.
A significant concern raised by experts is the largely unregulated market for supplements. The high profit margins in this industry can lead to the promotion of products without adequate quality control or scientific backing.
“My real concern is the unregulated market,” cautioned the expert. “I can’t tell you how many calls I’ve received over the years of people pitching me new supplements … because the margins are high and the market is huge.”
This lack of regulation underscores the importance of careful selection when choosing supplements. Experts emphasize the need for products that have undergone third-party testing to ensure safety and quality.
“The best ones go further and test for pesticides, arsenic and heavy metals, especially for protein powders,” she said. “If a product has many ingredients, I like to see that they do testing on each individual ingredient.”
