What is a Dietary Supplement?
A dietary supplement is a product derived from nutrients typically found in foods such as vegetables, fruits, animal bi-products, herbs, spices, plants and/or other botanicals. Supplements are intended to add to the nutritional value of a person’s diet.
What a Dietary Supplement is NOT?
Supplements are not pharmaceuticals or food. They live in the space in between those areas and are in their own category called nutraceuticals. Often, nutraceuticals are referred to as the Vitamin, Mineral and Supplement (VMS) industry.
Why Do People Take Dietary Supplements?
There are 3 main reason people take supplements:
- To fill nutritional gaps in the diet. Example: if you don’t get enough fruits and vegetable, you may take a multivitamin.
- To address a specific health concern or condition. Example: if you have joint pain, you may want to take a supplement formulated for joint support.
- To optimize the benefits of specific nutrients beyond the typical diet. Example: To build muscle, you may take protein supplements (shakes).
Do Dietary Supplements Work?
Yes, they do. Supplements are derived from food. The question is like asking if food works. While it is best to get your nutrients from food, supplementation is is a great way to ensure you are getting enough. Failing to get the proper amount of nutrients will result in health issues. However, it is important to have appropriate expectations. Supplements are not cures and don’t work instantly.
What About Studies that Say Supplements Don’t Work?
Not all studies are the same. Knowing what is being studied and what the conclusions are is important. For instance, a study may state that Vitamin C doesn’t prevent people from catching a cold virus. That’s like saying water doesn’t keep you dry. It’s not reasonable to assume it would. However, Vitamin C deficiency can make you more susceptible to catching a cold and recommended levels of Vitamin C may shorten the duration of a cold. The point is, watch out for studies that state stupid conclusions. Those are the ones that make the news.
Are Dietary Supplements Regulated?
Yes. They are regulated by a number of government agencies to include the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and many states and city laws.
✨ Explore More Supplement Guides
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🧪 Supplement Quality & Certifications
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⚠️ Supplement Safety & Medication Interactions
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📚 What the Science Says
We translate research into plain language so you can understand which supplements are backed by studies — and which are more hype than help.
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🧪 Understanding Nutrient Dosage
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