Pew Survey: 80% of Americans Rely on Dietary Supplements, Older Adults Lead Usage
September 12, 2026
Older adults are more likely to use supplements, with roughly 85% of those 65 and older and about 67% of adults under 30 taking them.
The findings place supplement use within broader health and lifestyle trends, signaling potential implications for public health, consumer behavior, and healthcare costs.
Most respondents view supplements as at least somewhat important to their health, indicating a perceived value in supplementation.
Women are slightly more likely than men to report taking supplements.
Herbal supplements such as ashwagandha or ginseng are used by about 19% of respondents.
The most commonly used supplements are vitamins and minerals—iron, calcium, and multivitamins—followed by protein supplements and omega-3/omega oils.
A Pew Research Center survey examines how widespread supplement use has become in the United States and identifies leading demographic groups.
The survey finds that about eight in ten American adults report currently taking at least one dietary supplement for health.
The global supplement industry is valued at nearly $210 billion, highlighting the market scale behind widespread use.
The article emphasizes that a large share of adults report taking at least one dietary supplement, underscoring the size of the habit in economic terms.
The survey notes that certain groups may be more likely to take supplements, though specific groups aren’t named in the provided excerpt.
The source of the article is Scripps News, with contribution notes and coverage in Health topics.
Summary based on 2 sources
Get a daily email with more US News stories
Sources

Scripps News • Sep 11, 2026
Interactive: Who takes supplements? New survey reveals America’s $210 billion habit
Scripps News • Sep 11, 2026
America's supplement habit: 80 percent of adults are taking at least one