Prevalence, attitudes, and practices of dietary supplements among middle-aged and older adults in Asir region, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to 1) identify the prevalence of dietary supplements (DS) among middle-aged and older adults; 2) determine attitudes toward DS and patterns of DS usage among middle-aged and older adults; and 3) assess the association of sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors with DS attitudes and DS usage. A cross-sectional online survey was undertaken among middle-aged and older adults. Data were collected by an online self-administered pretested questionnaire used as a study tool and distributed to respondents via social media applications. The DS usage prevalence among 501 respondents was 50.7%, and 53.5% of participants reported a positive attitude toward DS. The positive attitudes and higher usage of dietary supplements were statistically significant in higher proportions among older adults compared to middle-aged individuals. Significantly lower proportion of middle aged (54.9%) reported taking DS daily compared to 59.9% of older adults. A significant difference in the type of DS among the two groups was found for Omega-3 (p<0.001), minerals (p = 0.004), proteins (p = 0.002), fibers (p = 0.002), phytonutrients (p = 0.007), and probiotics (p = 0.015), with a higher proportion of middle-aged respondents reporting their use compared to older adults. Dietary supplement usage is a prevalent phenomenon among older adults and the middle-aged population. However, some undesirable practices regarding their use still exist in the community. Thus, there is a need of focussed health education to enhance attitudes and improve practices regarding the use of DS.

Withania somnifera and Trigonella foenum-graecum as ingredients of testosterone-boosting supplements: Possible clinical implications

“…8 More recent data from a cross-sectional survey of 501 individuals aged over 45 residing in Saudi Arabia in 2021 showed that the prevalence of dietary supplement use was 50.7% and was lower in those under 60 (54.9%) compared to older people (59.9%). 9 Statistical data on the consumption of dietary supplements indicate a growing interest in products that improve health and slow the aging process, which is promoted by media marketing. 10 Some plant-based anti-aging dietary supplements may protect against age-associated health problems, such as sarcopenia and metabolic syndrome, perhaps by affecting hormone concentrations.…”