The Factors Associated with Dietary Supplement Use in College Students

An abstract of a study by Geraghty et al assessing the supplement intake patterns of college students in a business and an allied medical professions survey course is presented. Results show that of the 336 students completing the survey, approximately 40% reported current or previous use of dietary supplements. The most common supplement types were dietary/ herbal supplements-without vitamins/minerals; dietary/herbal supplement with vitamins/minerals; and vitamin supplements alone. The most frequently cited reasons for taking dietary supplements were to: increase energy; lose weight; ensure adequate nutritional status; prevent illness; and enhance athletic performance.