The Latest Supplement Usage Statistics
According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition's (CRN) 2023 Consumer Survey, 74% of Americans reported using dietary supplements. The CRN's 2024 survey indicates consistent usage, though specific percentages can vary year to year. About 55% of Americans are considered regular supplement users. Data from the CDC (2017-2020) also showed stable usage, with 58.5% of adults using supplements within the past month.
For children and adolescents, CDC data (2017-2020) found that around one-third used dietary supplements in the past 30 days, including multivitamins and specific nutrients.
Demographic Differences in Supplement Use
Supplement use varies across the American population based on demographic factors:
- Gender: Females are more likely to use supplements than males.
- Age: Older adults tend to use supplements more frequently and often target specific health concerns like bone and heart health.
- Income and Education: Higher income and educational attainment are linked to increased supplement use.
- Race and Ethnicity: Asian and White adults have reported higher supplement use compared to Black and Hispanic adults.
Most Popular Supplements Among Americans
Commonly used supplements include:
- Multivitamins
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)
- Probiotics
- Melatonin
- Magnesium
- Turmeric
Reasons Why Americans Choose Supplements
Motivations for taking supplements include:
- Maintaining overall health and wellness.
- Filling perceived nutritional gaps.
- Supporting the immune system.
- Addressing specific concerns like bone or heart health.
- Boosting energy levels.
- Supporting sports nutrition and weight management (especially younger adults).
A Comparison of Supplement User Demographics
The table below highlights key demographic differences between supplement users and non-users based on national surveys.
| Demographic Characteristic | Supplement Users | Non-Supplement Users |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Skews older | Skews younger |
| Gender | More likely to be female | More likely to be male |
| Race/Ethnicity | Higher usage among Asian and White adults | Higher usage among Black and Hispanic adults |
| Education | Higher education levels are correlated with higher use | Lower education levels are correlated with lower use |
| Income | Higher income is correlated with higher use | Lower income is correlated with lower use |
| Health Status | Often report excellent or very good health | May report moderate or poor health |
| Lifestyle Habits | More likely to be physically active and non-smokers | Fewer healthy habits compared to users |
Considerations for Safe and Effective Supplementation
Dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA as food, not drugs, meaning manufacturers are responsible for ensuring safety and efficacy before products are sold. This differs from drug regulation and can lead to issues such as inconsistent product content, potential side effects or drug interactions, and limited evidence for efficacy, particularly if a healthy diet is already in place.
Healthcare professionals advise prioritizing nutrients from a balanced diet and recommend informing your doctor about any supplements you are taking. Less than a quarter of supplement use is based on a physician's recommendation.
Conclusion
Approximately three-quarters of American adults use dietary supplements for various health reasons. Usage patterns are influenced by demographics, with older adults, women, and those with higher income and education levels showing higher rates. While general wellness and filling nutritional gaps are common motivations, specific health concerns also drive supplement choices. Due to variations in product quality and regulatory differences compared to drugs, it is important for consumers to prioritize a healthy diet and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. For further information, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements website is a valuable resource.
