What is the purpose of dietary supplements?

The purpose of dietary supplements is primarily to provide nutrients that may be missing from a person's diet. Many individuals may not get the recommended amounts of essential vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial compounds from food alone due to factors such as dietary restrictions, lifestyle choices, or medical conditions. Dietary supplements can help fill these nutritional gaps and support overall health.

While some people falsely believe that dietary supplements can replace meals, this is not their intended use. Meals are designed to provide a balance of nutrients, while supplements are meant as aids, not substitutes. Similarly, dietary supplements are not typically designed to enhance the taste of food, as their primary function is nutrient delivery rather than flavor enhancement. While some supplements may claim to assist with weight loss, their efficacy and safety can vary greatly, and this is not their fundamental purpose according to the established definitions in nutrition and health.