A recent survey indicates that nearly 80% of American adults are currently using at least one dietary supplement, with about one-third reporting the use of protein powders, bars, or drinks. The findings, based on data collected by the Pew Research Center from a sample of 3,554 adults, reflect a growing trend in supplement use in the United States, even as medical experts question the health benefits of many such products.

Vitamins and minerals remain the most commonly consumed supplements, with 67% of respondents reporting their use. Additionally, 25% of participants said they take omega-3, fish oil, or krill oil supplements, while nearly 20% use herbal supplements like ginseng or ashwagandha. Protein supplement use was notably higher among adults under the age of 50 and was more common among women than men—a reversal of earlier trends, according to Stuart Phillips, a professor of kinesiology at McMaster University in Canada.

Experts caution that while certain supplements serve important clinical purposes—such as addressing nutrient deficiencies or preventing birth defects—the vast majority of supplements taken by the public do not offer proven health benefits. Peter Cohen, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, estimated that over 80% to 90% of supplement consumption likely lacks evidence of meaningful benefit.

Cardiologist Eric Topol, founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, noted that the popularity of omega-3 supplements persists despite mixed results from clinical trials regarding their potential heart and brain health benefits. Topol also pointed out that many people consume more protein than necessary, often influenced by social media messaging promoting elevated protein intake. Phillips emphasized that while adequate protein is important, muscle maintenance or growth depends more significantly on resistance training than on protein supplement consumption. He advised that obtaining protein from whole food sources provides additional nutrients that supplements alone cannot deliver.

The increase in supplement use over the past decades is supported by a separate study involving over 63,000 Americans, which found that supplement consumption rose from 51% to 60% between 1999 and 2023. The rise in use among older adults is consistent with medical recommendations to take supplements such as multivitamins, calcium, or vitamin D, though evidence supporting their efficacy remains inconclusive.

Healthcare professionals urge caution, highlighting that supplement manufacturers are not required to prove product safety or effectiveness before marketing their offerings. Registered dietitian Gretchen Zimmerman recommended consulting a physician before starting any supplement regimen, citing potential risks such as vitamin toxicity, liver damage from certain herbal products, and harmful drug interactions.

The global dietary supplement market is valued at an estimated US$228 billion. Despite widespread use, experts maintain that many supplements represent an unnecessary expense for consumers, offering little to no health advantage. As Topol summarized, most supplements lack reliable data supporting their benefits and mostly result in increased excretion without positive physiological effects.