Nonvitamin, nonmineral supplement use over a 12-month period by adult members of a large health maintenance organization
Schaffer, D.M.; Gordon, N.P.; Jensen, C.D.; Avins, A.L.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association 103(11): 1500-1505
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-8223
PMID: 14576716
DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2003.08.026
Accession: 049708707
The type and prevalence of supplement use by demographic and behavior characteristics were examined among members of a large group model health plan. There is concern over the increase in prevalence of nonvitamin, nonmineral (NVNM) supplements because of potential drug-supplement interactions. Survey data on the use of herbal medicines and dietary NVNM supplements from 15,985 adults were analyzed. Some 32.7% of adult health plan members used at least one NVNM supplement; the most frequently used herbs were Echinacea and Ginkgo biloba. Females aged 45 to 64 years, whites, college graduates, and those with selected health conditions had the highest use of NVNM supplements.