Summary
While over 75% of Americans take dietary supplements, research shows mixed results regarding their efficacy and safety.
Only a small fraction of supplements are rigorously tested, and the FDA has limited oversight, treating them as food rather than pharmaceuticals.
Some supplements, like multivitamins, may offer modest benefits, while others, particularly those with “mega doses,” can be harmful or ineffective.
Experts emphasize that most people can meet their nutritional needs through a healthy diet, though supplements may benefit those lacking access to diverse foods.
Misleading claims and a desire for health control drive their popularity.
A healthy diet is indeed usually enough to meet nutritional needs, but there are valid reasons to take supplements: 1) lack of easy access to healthy food, 2) I personally take supplements because my iron levels are consistently low without them, even with a healthy diet.