Supplementation is a growing trend among Americans as a way to boost one’s health, but which supplements are used the most? As it turns out, multivitamins are losing their appeal to American consumers, while vitamin D, fish oil, and probiotics are gaining popularity.
Between 1999 and 2012, overall supplement use among Americans has remained stable. Just over half of Americans take some form of dietary supplement.
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The researchers found that multivitamins and botanicals like ginseng or garlic extract are becoming less popular. On the other hand, people opt more for vitamin D, omega fatty acids, and probiotics.
Lead researcher Elizabeth Kantor explained, “I did expect to see that vitamin D use would go up, and that fish oil would go up.” This is because a lot of research has come out on these two supplements.
Numerous studies have questioned the benefits of multivitamins, so that in part explains the decline in their use.
Certain antioxidants have also lost popularity as newer studies questioning their effectiveness have surfaced.
The scientists are happy that consumers are taking into account the ongoing research and that their choices reflect study findings.
Although supplements can help maintain health, the researchers still recommend speaking to the doctor before starting on a supplement – especially for those who are on a treatment plan, as some ingredients in the supplements can negatively interact with prescribed medications.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
