Use of Dietary Supplements, Individual Tendencies, and Knowledge Level in the Course of Weight-Loss Dieting

Authors : Rabia Mavioğlu, Ali Tamer
Pages : 376-381
Doi:10.26453/otjhs.1767299
View : 127 | Download : 177
Publication Date : 2025-12-20
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the reasons, frequency, and awareness levels regarding dietary supplement use during weight-loss diets. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study included 106 individuals who were dieting for weight loss and using dietary supplements. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS (IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0.2.0). While frequency and percentage distributions were used for demographic data, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent samples t-test, and chi-square tests were employed to examine the relationship between awareness level and supplement use. Results: According to the findings, the most commonly preferred supplements were vitamins and minerals (74.5%), fish oil (39.6%), and probiotics (35.8%). Among the reasons for supplement use, boosting immunity (64.2%) and supporting weight loss (45.3%) stood out. Data obtained from a five-item Likert scale developed to assess awareness showed significant differences by age and education level. For example, awareness regarding the statement “Every natural supplement is harmless” differed significantly across age groups (F = 4.134, p = 0.008). Similarly, the statement “Products recommended on social media are reliable” differed by education level (F = 4.853, p = 0.006). Conclusions: The data suggest that, particularly during weight loss, individuals tend to turn to dietary supplements and that age, education level, and the influence of social media may be determining factors in these preferences. Furthermore, dietary supplement use appears to depend not only on individual preferences but also on knowledge and awareness.
Keywords : Bilgi düzeyi, diyet, gıda takviyesi, kilo verme, kilo yönetimi

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