Trends in dietary supplement use among U.S. adults between 2011 and 2023.

Our assessment

Researchers analyzed data from five cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2011 and 2023, involving 29,216 U.S. adults. The study tracked trends in dietary supplement use, with a specific focus on non-vitamin, non-mineral products. Information was collected through in-home or telephone interviews NIH ODS ↗.

What this means for you: This is a large, nationally representative study that provides a broad snapshot of supplement habits across the U.S. Because it includes over 29,000 participants, the findings are more reliable than smaller or more localized studies. However, the study relies on self-reported data, which may not always be perfectly accurate.

How it works

The researchers identified patterns in which types of supplements Americans are using and how those patterns have shifted over a 12-year period. By examining survey responses, they could see whether more people are turning to supplements like botanicals, probiotics, or other non-vitamin, non-mineral products. This helps public health officials understand what the general population is taking and why NIH ODS ↗.

What this means for you: If you are considering a dietary supplement, this study highlights that you are not alone — millions of other adults are also using these products. The data can help you compare your own habits to national trends, but remember that trends do not necessarily indicate what is right for your individual health needs.

Safety profile

Data not available. The provided research does not include specific information on side effects, adverse event reports, or safety data for the supplements studied. No FDA adverse event report counts were provided in the data for this specific study FDA FAERS ↗.

What this means for you: Because this study only tracked usage patterns, it does not offer any guidance on the safety or risks of the supplements people are taking. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, as safety profiles vary widely between products.

Our recommendation

Based on this study, the key takeaway is that supplement use is common among U.S. adults, but the research does not support or discourage the use of any specific product. Before adding a supplement to your routine, check with your doctor to ensure it is appropriate for your health needs and does not interact with any medications you take NIH ODS ↗.

What this means for you: The best approach is to prioritize a balanced diet as your primary source of nutrients. If you do choose a supplement, look for products that have been tested by third-party organizations and always follow the recommended dosage on the label.