Background/Objectives: Dietary supplements (DSs) are widely available on the pharmaceutical market. Their consumption frequency has been observed to increase over the years, especially with age. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Poland and Central-Eastern Europe to analyze the use of dietary supplements (DSs) based on a nationally representative, random sample of the elderly population. Methods: We examined 5987 individuals aged 60 years and older to assess the prevalence and types of DSs they use, with particular attention to socio-economic factors associated with their consumption. It also aimed to determine whose recommendations were followed when choosing supplements. Results: The percentage of individuals taking any DSs was 32.1% (95% CI: 29.8–34.4), with a higher proportion among women (38.7% (95% CI: 35.7–41.7)) compared to men (22.8% (95% CI: 20.6–25.1)). A multivariable analysis showed that DSs were more likely to be used by individuals with higher education (Prevalence Ratio (PR) 1.74 (95% CI: 1.47–2.06) for individuals with higher education vs. those with primary education). A link between age and DSs consumption was also observed, with the highest consumption rates found among those in their 80s (PR 1.46 (95% CI: 1.30–1.63) vs. the 60–69 age group). The most commonly used ingredients were vitamins, taken by 76.2% (95% CI: 73.6–78.9) of respondents, minerals (55.9% (95% CI: 52.8–59)), and plant-based preparations (45.0% (95% CI: 42–48)). Although DSs were most often used based on a doctor’s recommendation (58.5% (95% CI: 54.5–62.6)), over a third of patients initiated their use independently. Conclusions: This significant proportion of individuals taking dietary supplements in Poland, often without consultation with healthcare professionals, suggests that these products may be used in the absence of objective indications, which may be associated with adverse effects and potential drug–supplement interactions. This represents an important implication for clinicians, who should always extend the medical history to include information on DSs use. The findings also highlight the need to strengthen regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe use of these products and to optimally protect the health of older adults.
Woch et al. (Mon,) studied this question.