Use of vitamin and mineral supplements among Canadian adults

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and determinants of use of vitamin and mineral supplements among adult Canadians. Methods: Data from adult respondents of the Canadian Community Health Survey Cycle (CCHS) 2.2 were used. Participants were asked about their use of vitamin and mineral supplements in the month prior to being surveyed. The prevalence of vitamin and mineral supplement use was compared across various socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess determinants of supplement use. Results: In the month prior to the interview, 40.1% of adult Canadians took supplements. In the fully adjusted model, females of all ages were more likely to be users than males 19-30 years. Physical activity, fruit/vegetable consumption, and higher levels of household education and income were positively related to supplement use. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of adult Canadians take vitamin and mineral supplements. The use was more prevalent among those with healthier lifestyles and of socio-economically advantaged backgrounds. Further investigation is needed to reveal the impact of supplements on nutrient adequacy and health. © Canadian Public Health Association, 2009. All rights reserved.