Dietary supplement use in adolescents

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Adolescent Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Dietary supplement use is increasing among adolescents.
• Adolescents (ages 12-19) are a key demographic for supplement consumption.
• Understanding motivations and consequences is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current prevalence rates of dietary supplement use in adolescents.
• To identify types of supplements consumed and reasons for use.
• To examine physiological, psychological, educational, and regulatory concerns.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on adolescent dietary supplement use.
• Analysis of prevalence data, supplement types, and consumption drivers.
• Synthesis of findings on health status, gender, and physical activity influences.

Main Results:

• Adolescent supplement use prevalence ranges from 10% to 74%.
• Multivitamins, minerals, creatine, herbals, and protein supplements are common.
• Supplements for athletic performance and physical appearance are popular.
• Health status, gender, and physical activity are key moderating factors.

Conclusions:

• The growing multi-billion dollar supplement industry requires efficacy and safety research for adolescents.
• Psychological and educational aspects of adolescent supplement use are critical for health and safety.
• Further research is needed to address concerns in this population.