Pilot studies: Vitamin supplements – what drives consumers from the Podkarpackie region and do they need education?

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Supplements have long been with consumers, but few are aware of the possible consequences of inappropriate use resulting from hypervitaminosis or drug interactions. The higher the sales of supplements, the more necessary consumer education appears. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and education needs of consumers from the Podkarpacie region.

Material and methods: 218 people aged 18-65 completed the anonymous survey questionnaire consisting of 38 questions about vitamin supplementation, dietary habits, and knowledge about supplementation.

Results: Most respondents decide to take supplements without laboratory tests or medical consultation. Only 54% of the respondents read the brochures. Most of them pay attention to the composition and label of supplements before buying them and consume supplements with meals and do not combine them with alcohol. Only 4.10% of the respondents noticed side effects related to supplementation. Being in the medical profession has a positive impact on knowledge about supplementation, confirming that education is important for understanding and awareness in the field of supplements.

Conclusion: The average level of knowledge is low. Medical professions usually have a greater awareness of vitamin supplementation, which confirms the hypothesis that appropriate education is necessary for people taking supplements.

Keywords: hypervitaminosis; drug interactions; supplements