The role of multivitamin and mineral supplements in supporting health and well-being: a retrospective cross-sectional study in Taiwan

BACKGROUND: Multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements have been shown to provide various health benefits, including enhanced energy, skin health, metabolism, and immune function. This study explored the impact of MVM supplements based on users' experience in Taiwan. METHODS: This retrospective, real-world, cross-sectional study included 400 respondents, aged 35-60 years, residing in Taiwan. Data were collected via an online survey. Respondents self-reported perceived benefits across six youthful vitality benefits: energy, metabolism, sleep, mental alertness, skin health and complexion, and spirit. Additional assessments covered perceived immunity, general health, quality-of-life (QoL), well-being, user attitude and perception. Subgroup analyses was performed post hoc based on gender (male vs. female), age (< 50 vs. ≥50 years) and frequency of use (daily vs. occasional) to explore potential subgroup differences in perceived benefits. RESULTS: A total of 93% of users agreed that MVM supplements support at least one out of six youthful vitality benefits. Users reported several perceived benefits: energy support (59.00%), improved metabolism (59.75%), improved complexion (53.25%), normal immune functioning (66.25%), confident in maintaining overall health (63.25%). Satisfaction levels were notably high, with 74.50% expressing satisfaction with product use, 72.50% trusting the product, and 79.00% showed willingness to repurchase. Subgroup analyses suggested that males, daily users, and users aged ≥ 50 years experienced more favorable outcomes across several parameters as compared to their respective counterparts. CONCLUSION: This study provides real-world evidence that MVM supplements are widely perceived to support youthful vitality, immunity, general health, and QoL. These user-reported outcomes complement existing clinical research by highlighting benefits experienced in everyday settings, especially among daily users and those aged 50 and above. The high satisfaction and trust levels observed further reinforce the relevance of MVM supplements as a self-care strategy. By bridging the gap between controlled trials and consumer experience, this study adds valuable context to the science and recommendation of micronutrient supplementation.