DETERMINANTS OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENT USE AND SAFETY AWARENESS AMONG ADULTS: A MIXED-METHODS CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Rather than being used specifically for therapeutic purposes, people frequently use diet supplements to maintain their general health and meeting their perceived nutritional requirements, although they may be influenced by social recommendations, media exposure and knowledge of potential health risks. The current study explored dietary supplement usage, perceived benefits, awareness about the safety of dietary supplements, adverse effects reported, and behavioral influences among adults in Multan (Pakistan). A cross-sectional survey design was employed in this study to evaluate 72 adults (aged 18-45 years) who were sampled through convenience sampling. Data were gathered by the structured questionnaire which was taken in paper and online. Data were summarized by descriptive statistics and exploratory comparisons to describe supplement-use patterns and associated perceptions. In total, 45 participants (62.5%) used supplements while 27 participants (37.5%) did not use supplements. General wellness and peer recommendations were frequently reported in motivations among participants, providing reasons for use. 52.8% of respondents reported a difference after consuming supplements. 63.9% said they were aware of potential risks, but 16.7% said they had adverse effects and 19.4% said they did not know if they were aware of potential risks. Peer influence and media influence were reported by 47.2% and 44.4% of the participants, respectively. Some respondents also believed that workload impacted supplement-related activities. There was no significant difference in supplement use between age groups 〖(χ〗^2=1.880, p=.598). The findings reported here reflect the use of supplements and safety concerns of this convenience sample.