Dietary supplements: a thriving market despite the fact that their consumption is sometimes hazardous to health

Hyaluronic acid capsules, sea iodine capsules, Brazilian ginseng powder, omega-3s, and now collagen tablets… The galaxy of nutritional supplements is as vast as the market is booming, with 2.6 billion of them sold in 2022 euro, which is 3% more. more than one year, according to the latest report from the National Union of Dietary Supplements (Synadiet), published last April. According to a survey conducted by the Harris Interactive Institute, more than half of the French consume it.

These products are “foods whose purpose is to supplement the normal diet and which constitute a concentrated source of nutrients or other substances that have a nutritional or physiological effect,” the Department of Health defines. The promises presented are enough to seduce more than one: digest food better, sleep better, relieve stress, lose weight… Fans buy them mainly in pharmacies (more than half of sales), but also many without intermediaries in supermarkets and on websites. Internet (more than a quarter of sales in these three categories).

Unlike medications, complete instructions are not required.

No matter how harmless their ingredients may seem, these products are not always harmless, especially if they are purchased online and are not necessarily tracked, warns the Ministry of Health. The main one is the toxic consequences, especially in cases of overdose or excessive consumption without even realizing it.

Last June, the National Agency for Food Safety, Environment and Occupational Health (ANSES) also warned that the presence of certain medicinal plants, which may be hazardous, may not necessarily be disclosed on the label.

Because, unlike drugs, nutritional supplements do not necessarily have to come with detailed instructions. Consumers are advised to discuss this with their doctor and pharmacist to avoid any risk, especially if they have medical conditions and are taking medications.