Myth 13: "Supplements are a new fad to make money and are most likely to be taken by the well-off who least need them."

Fact 13: Not true. Supplements in one form or another have been available for many years, but the range of different supplements on the shelves, many designed for the needs of specific groups of people, is much wider than in the past. This reflects both the industry's response to developments in nutritional thinking and the changing demands of consumers. Some supplements are designed to provide essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, trace elements, essential fatty acids and amino acids. Others provide non-nutrient components of foods that may have health benefits.

Supplements are taken by one in three adults from all walks of life* who are concerned about their nutritional intake. Supplementation with certain vitamins is recommended by the Department of Health for children under 5 years of age (vitamins A, D, C)**; for women prior to conception and in the first trimester of pregnancy (folic acid)***; women with heavy menstrual losses (iron)****: pregnant and lactating women (vitamin D)****; and anyone over 65 years (vitamin D)****. Source: BMRB - Everyday Healthcare Study, October 1997. ** Source: DoH, 1994. *** Source: DoH, 1993.**** Source: DoH, 1991.

Information provided by HSIS Health Supplements Information Service.