Analysis of the consumption of dietary supplements for weight loss

Abstract

Background/Aim. Overweight and obesity may lead to a large number of health problems. Prevention and adequately timed treatment can lead to successful body mass regulation. The aim of the study was to analyze body mass index (BMI) of the examinees, usage of dietary supplement for weight loss (DSWL) by gender and particular products, types of information source and types of information about DSWL which provide doctors and pharmacists. Methods. The survey was conducted in the region of the town of Niš. The survey was carried out among a random sample of 505 participants, 243 men and 262 women, older than 15 years. The tool used was a questionnaire. Results. There is a positive association between aging and BMI. DSWL are used by 20.39% of the examinees. The most of the examinees that use DSWL were overweight and used it for esthetic reasons. Before the use of DSWL, women usually practice diets and men practice fluid consumption. Television is the most important source of information about DSWL. Health care professionals mostly provide information about DSWL consumption (64.08%), and only a third of them provide all the information (usage, eating regime, fluid consumption, and physical activity). Conclusion. The prevalence of obesity emphasizes the need for concentrated efforts to prevent obesity in the early age. The only way to reduce the risk of DSWLs misuse is providing all of the necessary information by the health care professionals. As pharmacists are in the direct contact with patients they have the most important role in rational and effective use of DSWL.

Keywords

• dietary supplements
• questionnaires
• body mass index
• obesity
• risk assessment
• ethics, pharmacy