Dietary Supplement Use and Its Determinants Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of dietary supplement use among university students in Türkiye, the motivations behind their use, their level of knowledge, and the factors influencing this situation. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey method between January and April 2024. A sample of 516 university students from various universities across Türkiye was recruited using snowball sampling method. A questionnaire developed by the researchers was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, dietary supplement use, and knowledge levels. Results: The analysis revealed that 44.4% of the participants used dietary supplements. The most commonly used supplements were vitamin D (17.0%), magnesium (15.8%), and vitamin B12 (13.1%). The most common reason participants preferred to use dietary supplements was their physician's recommendation (43%), followed by their own preference (21%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that high income level (OR = 8.34), being a Health Sciences student (OR = 0.329), and having a chronic disease (OR = 0.439) were statistically significant determinants of dietary supplement use. Additionally, participants were found to have insufficient knowledge regarding the non-pharmaceutical nature of dietary supplements. Conclusion: A considerable number of university students use dietary supplements, and health professionals have a significant influence in this regard. However, individuals acting on their own and the insufficient knowledge within society about this issue pose a risk of unconscious use. These results demonstrate the necessity of implementing programs that provide university students with information about dietary supplements and increase their awareness of this issue.

Keywords

• dietary supplements
• students
• health knowledge
• attitudes
• young adults

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