CRN infographic: The dietary supplement consumer

The healthy consumer: Supplement users list overall wellness and balanced diets among top characteristics

American adults taking dietary supplements are, in general, a healthy bunch, according to data from the CRN 2014 Annual Consumer Survey. The results challenge claims by critics that consumers see supplements as a way to remedy poor dietary habits.

CRN’s annual survey is based on a national sample of 2,010 adults ages 18 and older. This survey has been conducted annually since 2000.

The top five reasons cited by supplement user for taking the products are:
1. Overall wellness (54%)
2. Filling nutrient gaps in the diet (29%)
3. Bone health (25%)
4. Immune health (25%)
5. Healthy aging (24%)

Data from the survey also found that the majority of users tended to be better educated, reliant on medical professionals for information about supplements, and they make an effort to eat a balanced diet.

The vast majority of consumers purchase their products from mass retailers, drug stores, or supermarkets.

CRN produced the infographic below to illustrate the results: