CONSUMPTION OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS IN A SAMPLE OF ADULTS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction. The widespread availability of dietary supplements has transformed their consumption into a mass phenomenon, raising public health concerns regarding uncontrolled self-medication. In the Republic of Moldova, data on this behavioral pattern remain scarce.

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate dietary supplement consumption practices among adults in the Republic of Moldova to identify the specific characteristics of self-medication.

Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted (November 2025 – March 2026) using an 81-item structured questionnaire developed by the authors based on the KAP framework and distributed online and in print. The final sample included n=391 adults, and data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

Results. The consumer profile was predominantly female (86.7%) and urban (94.9%). The supplement penetration rate reached 80.8%, with 35.0% using them daily. Magnesium (66.2%) and Vitamin D (57.5%) were the most consumed options. Concurrent use of multiple dietary supplements was reported by 54.5% of the sample. Although 37.3% followed nutritionists' advice, consumption decisions were frequently made without prior biochemical screening. Furthermore, 47.1% erroneously attributed curative properties to supplements, heavily influenced by social media (33.8%) and digital marketing (26.3%). Chaotic eating and time constraints drove 76.0% of respondents toward self-supplementation.

Conclusions. Supplement consumption in the Republic of Moldova is characterized by a high level of unassisted self-medication. Regulating the advertising market and implementing intersectoral nutritional education programs are urgently required.