Sociodemographic and health behaviour factors among dietary supplement and natural remedy users

Abstract

Objective: To investigate which subgroups of the Swedish adult population use dietary supplements and natural remedies, taking into account sociodemographic and health behaviour factors.

Design: A cross-sectional survey conducted in 1996/1997 by Statistics Sweden was used for the analyses. In face-to-face interviews participants reported consumption of dietary supplements and natural remedies during the previous 2 weeks.

Setting: Sweden

Subjects: A nationally representative sample of 11 422 adults (5596 men, 5826 women) aged 16-84 y. The response rate was 78%.

Results: Overall, 33% of Swedish women and 22% of Swedish men reported use of dietary supplements; prevalence of natural remedy users was 14 and 7%, respectively. The best predictors for use of dietary supplements and natural remedies were age, sex and subjective health. Women and older individuals were more likely to be dietary supplement and/or natural remedy users. Obese men and women were less likely to use dietary supplements than underweight ones. Among men subjective health was significantly related to use of these preparations. Men who reported excellent health ate less than men reporting poor health. This association was weaker among women. Exercise was another important factor. Both men and women (except female dietary supplement users) who reported moderate or heavy exercise were significantly more frequent users of these preparations than those who reported practically no exercise.

Conclusion: Use of dietary supplements and natural remedies is associated with several sociodemographic and health behaviour factors.

Sponsorship: Karolinska Institutet Research Fund.