Supplementation

Supplementation refers to the use of products intended to add nutritional elements to the diet, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, herbs and botanicals, enzymes, and other substances. Supplements are intended to complement, not replace, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. They are commonly used to prevent or correct nutrient deficiencies, support health, or address specific needs such as athletic performance, aging, or medical conditions.

Common types include vitamin and mineral supplements (vitamin D, calcium, iron), omega-3 fatty acids, protein powders, multivitamins, probiotics, and herbal products.

Regulation and quality vary by country. In many jurisdictions, dietary supplements are regulated differently from medicines; manufacturers may be required to register products, list ingredients and dosages, and ensure safety, but pre-market proof of efficacy is not always required. Quality concerns include adulteration, inaccurate labeling, and contamination. Third-party testing and good manufacturing practices aim to improve reliability.

Evidence of benefit is variable. Some supplements have well-established roles in deficiency prevention or treatment (for example, iron for iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin D for low levels, omega-3s for certain conditions), while for many others evidence is limited or mixed. Potential risks include interactions with medications, toxicity at high doses, and adverse effects.

Guidance for use includes avoiding excessive doses, prioritizing dietary sources, checking labels for ingredients and dosages, and consulting a healthcare provider before use in pregnancy, with chronic disease, when taking medications, or in children or older adults. Supplements are not substitutes for medical care.