The relationship between health related-behaviour and dietary supplement consumption

Abstract

THE AIMS OF THE PAPER

In this study, we analyse health-related characteristics of the adult Hungarian population, distinguishing between two consumer groups. The point of our differentiation was the consumption of dietary supplements, including vitamin and mineral preparations. The aim of our study is to explore certain aspects of health-related behaviour among consumers who use dietary supplements and those who do not. We present our results in the areas of physical activity, healthy eating, and in examining the impact of the media (online and offline).

METHODOLOGY

The survey was conducted on a national sample involving 1000 people. Our sample is representative by gender, age and region. The analysis was performed using descriptive statistical methods, cross-table analysis and variance analysis.

MOST IMPORTANT RESULTS

Consumers of dietary supplements spend more time exercising, engaged in more physical activity, and think less of sports facilities inaccessible or expensive. They are less likely to spend their leisure time in an inactive way, such as watching more than 2 hours of TV a day. Buying healthy food is considered less expensive and producing healthy food is not considered to be more difficult than preparing traditional food. Higher consumption of vegetables and fruits is characteristic of this group, while they consume much less of sugary drinks (e.g.: juice, soft drinks). Healthy lifestyle events and campaigns have a stronger impact on them than non-dietary user adults. They are more affected by stories in the media about health or illness. Health related content taken over through social networking sites, forums, blogs is more relevant to them. There are also differences between the two groups in what if they could change a particular habit or type of action.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on our results, we have found that those who use dietary supplements lead a more active, healthier lifestyle. They are more conscious in diet, besides they are more influenced by media. It is important to draw the attention of practitioners to the fact that this consumer group is more receptive to health-related content, both online and offline.

Acknowledgement: The publication is supported by the EFOP-3.6.2-16-2017-00003 project. The project is co-financed by the European Union and the European Social Fund.