The actual status of users of supplements and health foods

questionnaire-based study in Japan.

Abstract

Aim: This study focused on the consumption of supplements and health foods from a survey on the actual conditions of the use of complementary/alternative medicine.

Method: A consumer panel of 3227 persons living in Japan, consisting of men and women between the ages of 20 and 69 was surveyed. Participants were asked about their basic characteristics, consumption of supplements and health foods, purpose of use, advertisements used as reference, whether they cited treatments in a medical institutions, and whether they had consultations with and recommendations from doctors when using.

Results: Out of the 3227 participants, 972 (30.1%) used dietary supplements and health foods in the past month. Women and people above the age of 60 were more likely to be users of dietary supplements and health foods. The most common purpose of using supplements and health foods was “health maintenance and promotion.” There was a difference in the information in the advertisements referred to between participants who used supplements and health foods and non-users of complementary/alternative medicine.

Conclusion: Some people use supplements and health foods were used for “prevention from diseases” or “treatment for disease;” therefore, it is necessary to warn consumers of the need to consult a medical institution before consumption.