Introduction
The long-term use of dietary supplements is a common practice aimed at improving health and nutrient intake. This analysis synthesizes findings from multiple research studies to understand the effects of long-term dietary supplement use on health and nutrient absorption.
Key Insights
-
Improved Nutrient Status and Health Markers:
- Long-term users of multiple dietary supplements tend to have better serum nutrient concentrations and more favorable health markers, such as lower levels of homocysteine, C-reactive protein, and triglycerides, as well as higher HDL cholesterol levels. They also show a lower risk of elevated blood pressure and diabetes compared to non-users and single supplement users.
- In elderly populations, supplement use is associated with improved nutrient intakes and better diet quality, as indicated by higher Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores .
-
Nutrient Adequacy and Dietary Diversity:
- Long-term use of oral nutritional supplements in children has been shown to improve nutrient adequacy and dietary diversity without interfering with normal food intake. This leads to better growth outcomes.
- In Korean adults, dietary supplement use significantly reduces the percentage of individuals with nutrient intakes below the estimated average requirement for several vitamins and minerals, although it also increases the risk of exceeding the tolerable upper intake levels for some nutrients.
-
Health Risks and Adverse Outcomes:
- Some studies indicate potential risks associated with high doses of certain supplements. For example, high doses of beta-carotene and vitamin E have been linked to increased risks of lung and prostate cancer, respectively, in specific populations.
- The literature suggests that while omega-3 fatty acids can lower blood triglycerides, their role in preventing heart disease remains unclear. Additionally, weight loss supplements are generally ineffective and may pose health risks.
-
Specific Populations and Conditions:
- In geriatric long-term care, dietary supplements can significantly improve dietary intake and lead to weight gain and increased serum retinol-binding protein levels, indicating better nutritional status.
- Among long-term cancer survivors, supplement use is prevalent and associated with higher nutrient intakes and better diet quality. However, there is a risk of excessive intake of certain nutrients, such as vitamin A .
-
Calcium Absorption and Bone Health:
- Prebiotic supplements, such as inulin-type fructans, have been shown to enhance calcium absorption and bone mineralization in adolescents, suggesting long-term benefits for bone health.
Conclusion
Long-term dietary supplement use generally leads to improved nutrient status and better health markers, particularly in populations with specific nutritional needs, such as children, the elderly, and long-term cancer survivors. However, there are potential risks associated with high doses of certain supplements, and the benefits can vary depending on the type and dosage of the supplement. It is crucial to balance the benefits of nutrient adequacy with the risks of excessive intake, and healthcare providers should guide supplement use to ensure safety and efficacy.