Frequency of Dietary Supplements usage in the Saudi Arabian Public and Gym Users

Authors

  • Muhammad Raihan Sajid Department of pathology, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Lama Quraiba Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Rahaf Iyad Khames Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Noara Khaled Alhusseini Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Haifa Alsheikh Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Nabel Basha Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Saad Mansoor Department of Medical education, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • Aamir Omair Research Unit, Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22317/jcms.v6i6.886

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study is to explore the use of dietary supplements and to assess awareness of its positive/adverse effects among physically active adults and the general population in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey-based study and received 574 responses showing frequencies and types of dietary supplements.

Results: The results show that 44.6% of respondents use dietary supplements. The most used dietary supplements were Vitamin C and multivitamins, consumed by 44% of the respondents, Vitamin D (44%), Iron (41%), and Calcium (39%).  Protein sports bars and powder were consumed mainly by gym members, particularly those practicing weight-training exercises. Approximately 4% of respondents reported side-effects secondary to the usage of the dietary supplements. We conclude that the dietary supplement usage is widespread in Saudi Arabia among both gym members and the general public.

Conclusion: It is highly recommended to increase awareness measures from official health entities by educating the general population and physically active adults about dietary supplement use and adverse effects to ensure safe practices.

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Published

2020-12-26

How to Cite

Sajid, M. R., Quraiba, L., Khames, R. I., Alhusseini, N. K., Alsheikh, H., Basha, N., … Omair, A. (2020). Frequency of Dietary Supplements usage in the Saudi Arabian Public and Gym Users. Journal of Contemporary Medical Sciences, 6(6), 300–305. https://doi.org/10.22317/jcms.v6i6.886

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