TRU-2K.101-HP-13
A STUDY ABOUT THE MOTIVES FOR CHOOSING DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS
Abstract
The concept of dietary supplements represents a novel direction in nutritional science in the 21st century (Andreeva, L., 2014). Also referred to as nutraceuticals, they are characterised by two key features: their natural origin (plant- based or animal-derived) and the presence of biologically active compounds. Within the context of this study, a dietary supplement is defined as any substance consumed in addition to a balanced diet that provides medical and health benefits, including disease prevention and treatment. The present research aims to identify the motives behind the use of dietary supplements amongst physically active individuals. Data were collected through a survey conducted with 70 volunteers aged 21 to 50 years during a half-marathon event. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information and a set of structured questions. Results indicate that 54% of respondents were male and 46% female, with the largest proportion employed in client- oriented occupations (service sector), and 57% reported being single. The questionnaire allowed multiple responses (Slavchev, S., 2021). The primary sources of information regarding supplements were the internet (71.4%), friends (57.1%), and commercial advertising (28.6%). The main reported reasons for supplement use were health improvement (71.4%), immune system support (57.1%), maintenance of physical fitness (42.9%), and disease prevention (42.9%). Out of a total of 250 half- marathon participants, 70 voluntarily joined the study, all of whom reported using dietary supplements. Amongst them, 41 participants consumed supplements daily, while the remaining 29 reported irregular use. These findings support the hypothesis that dietary supplements are part of a complex set of factors contributing to the achievement of sustainable and enhanced outcomes in active sports participation (Radev, A., 2018).
Keywords
Supplements, Sport, Questionnaire, Motive, Health
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