Supplement Use In Kids Is Rising, Including For Weight Loss & Bodybuilding, New Study Finds

"The study found that more than 35% of children and adolescents use daily dietary supplements, with a significant increase in single vitamins like vitamin D, zinc, and iron from 2015 to 2023."

"There was a notable increase in kids taking fiber, probiotics, and melatonin, which raises safety concerns due to increased emergency department visits related to melatonin ingestions."

"Adolescent boys most often use melatonin and bodybuilding supplements, while adolescent girls commonly use iron, zinc, probiotics, and weight loss-related supplements."

A recent study found that over 35% of children and adolescents in the U.S. use dietary supplements, with a notable rise in single vitamins and melatonin. The study highlighted safety concerns due to increased emergency visits related to melatonin ingestion. Adolescent boys commonly use melatonin and bodybuilding supplements, while girls tend to use iron, zinc, and weight loss-related supplements. Despite pediatricians suggesting that picky eaters often get enough nutrition, the trend of supplement use continues to grow among children and teens.

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