Dietary Supplement Use and Determinants among Physically Active Young Adults Aged 18-35 Years

Abstract

The growing emphasis on fitness and body consciousness has contributed to increased dietary supplement use among physically active young adults. This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to assess the prevalence of dietary supplement consumption and examine demographic and exercise related determinants among physically active individuals aged 18–35 years in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 100 participants (75 males and 25 females) engaged in structured exercise at least three times per week for a minimum of three months were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometric profile, exercise patterns, supplement use, motivations and risk perception. Body Mass Index was calculated using standard criteria and data were analyzed using SPSS. Findings revealed that 32% of participants reported regular supplement use and 9% reported occasional use, while 59% did not consume supplements. Whey protein was the most commonly consumed supplement. The primary motivations for use were muscle recovery and muscle growth. Supplement consumption was more prevalent among individuals engaged in strength training and those exercising more than five times per week. A statistically significant association was observed between gender and supplement use, with males demonstrating higher consumption compared to females (χ² = 11.677, p = .003). The findings indicate that supplement use is influenced by both physiological demands and sociocultural factors, with notable variability in perceptions regarding its necessity. These results highlight the need for targeted awareness and professional nutritional guidance to promote safe, rational, and evidence-based supplement use among physically active young adults.