Table 3 Percent of subjects citing various reasons for using dietary supplements, in NHANES 2007–2011 and in two CRN surveys, one in 2011 on consumer use of dietary supplements and one in 2009 on use by dietitians
From: Health habits and other characteristics of dietary supplement users: a review
Reason for use | NHANES 2007–2010 [[3]] | CRN Consumer survey, 2011 [[5]] | CRN survey, dietitians, 2009 [[11]] |
|---|---|---|---|
Overall health: | Â | Â | Â |
Improve overall health | 45% | Â | Â |
Maintain health | 33% | Â | Â |
Overall health/wellness | Â | 58% | 53% |
Bone health | 25% | 30% | 58% |
Supplement the diet, fill nutrient gaps | 22% | 42% | 42% |
Prevent health problems | 20% | 26% | Â |
Heart health, lower cholesterol | 15% | 29%, 19% | 25%, 16% |
Boost immunity, prevent colds | 15% | 32%, 17% | 25%, 21% |
Healthy joints, prevent arthritis | 12% | 20% | 15% |
Enhanced energy | 11% | 31% | 15% |
Skin, hair and nails | 5% (skin only) | 17% | 13% |
Bowel or colon health, digestive health | 5% | 15% | 26% |
Eye health | 4% | 13% | 9% |
Mental health or focus, concentration | 4% | 13% | Â |
Weight loss, weight management | 3% | 14% | 6% |