Dietary supplements in the Department of Defense: possible solutions to optimizing force readiness

Mil Med. 2012 Dec;177(12):1464-70. doi: 10.7205/milmed-d-12-00249.

Abstract

Dietary supplement use is common among military service members; approximately 17 to 20% report using high-risk weight-loss, performance-enhancing, and bodybuilding supplements. To date, no overarching policy or program has been approved or implemented to inform service members or educate health care providers on the potential adverse consequences of using multiple combinations of supplements or the pros and cons of supplements per se. A review of regulations, concerns, and possible solutions is provided. Importantly, the role of third-party certification and education is emphasized.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems
  • Consumer Product Safety
  • Dietary Supplements / standards*
  • Drug Contamination
  • Humans
  • Military Medicine*
  • Pharmacopoeias as Topic / standards
  • Quality Control
  • United States