KUWAIT CITY, Oct 14: As countries around the world witness a surge in the use of nutritional supplements, fueled by extensive advertising campaigns, particularly on social media, specialists are cautioning against excessive consumption without medical guidance. These supplements are promoted as beneficial for various segments of society, claiming to enhance public health and support numerous treatments. However, experts warn that taking these supplements without proper medical oversight can lead to significant health risks.

Dietary patterns and individual health cultures significantly influence the effectiveness of nutritional supplements. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered many people's nutritional habits, prompting increased reliance on supplements for immune support and overall health improvement. This highlights the need for enhanced health literacy to mitigate potential harms and unexpected negative effects.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson for the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health, stated in an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that global usage of nutritional supplements is rising, with projections estimating that worldwide spending will reach $306.8 billion by 2026, up from $140.4 billion in 2020, a staggering increase of approximately 118.67 percent, according to the World Metrics organization.

Dr. Al-Sanad attributed the rise in supplement use to various factors, including heightened demand for immune-boosting products following the COVID-19 pandemic and increased public awareness regarding health, disease prevention, and improved nutrition. He noted that the fast-paced lifestyle and reliance on processed foods have led to deficiencies in essential nutrients, prompting many to seek supplements as a solution.

In the United States, approximately 77 percent of adults regularly take some form of nutritional supplement, making it one of the largest markets globally. There is also a growing demand in countries like China and Japan, particularly for supplements containing vitamins D, C, and Omega-3.

Dr. Al-Sanad highlighted that media promotion, celebrity endorsements, and the concept of "prevention is better than cure" have contributed to the popularity of supplements. Their widespread availability at various price points and the fact that they often do not require a prescription further encourage their use.

To ensure safe supplementation, Dr. Al-Sanad recommends consulting a doctor or nutritionist to confirm that the supplements are suitable for an individual's health condition and to avoid overdosing or interactions with other medications. He emphasized the importance of reading package instructions carefully and adhering to the recommended dosages, as excessive intake of certain vitamins or minerals can lead to health complications. It is also advisable to take nutritional supplements with food to enhance absorption, especially for fat-soluble vitamins such as D, E, and A.

While supplements can play a role in a balanced diet, Dr. Al-Sanad cautions against relying on them entirely as a substitute for a healthy diet. Monitoring for side effects, such as allergies or digestive issues, is crucial, and individuals should notify their healthcare provider of any unusual symptoms.

Dr. Al-Sanad discourages the use of supplements without medical advice, as individual needs can vary greatly, and some supplements may be unnecessary or even harmful if taken without justification. He warned that excessive intake of vitamins or minerals could result in poisoning or negative interactions with medications, particularly for vulnerable groups like pregnant women or individuals with chronic illnesses.

Moreover, the indiscriminate use of supplements may mask underlying health issues that require proper medical intervention. Therefore, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure that the supplements used are appropriate and beneficial to the individual's health without posing risks.

Regarding the composition of nutritional supplements, Dr. Al-Sanad noted that they contain a range of essential ingredients, including vitamins, minerals (such as zinc and iron), fatty acids (like omega-3), amino acids, and fibers. Some supplements may also incorporate plant or herbal extracts to enhance their health benefits.

The choice of supplement form—whether tablets, effervescent forms, or gummies—depends on individual preferences and health needs. Tablets and capsules are the most common options, providing precise dosages and ease of use.

Nutritional supplements can be advantageous for individuals with nutrient deficiencies, as they help compensate for missing vitamins and minerals and support various bodily functions, including immune system enhancement and improved bone health. However, Dr. Al-Sanad asserts that a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish can often provide similar benefits without the need for supplementation. Natural foods offer a comprehensive array of nutrients working in harmony, along with important fibers and antioxidants not typically found in supplements.

Ultimately, Dr. Al-Sanad warned that using supplements without medical advice can lead to numerous health problems, including potential poisoning from excessive vitamin or mineral intake, liver damage, and kidney stones. Supplements may also interact with medications, causing severe side effects or diminishing treatment efficacy.