Addressing Nutritional Gaps: Simple Steps for the Primary Care Provider

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Identify common shortfalls in the typical American diet.
• Address the link between poor diet quality and chronic disease.
• Identify patients at risk for vitamin deficiency and potential vitamin–
drug interactions.
• Recognize patients with vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
• Partner with patients regarding selection and appropriate use of
vitamin and mineral supplements to achieve recommended dietary
allowances

Although nutrition experts often advise that individuals consuming the standard American diet with 3 square meals a day do not need vitamins or nutritional supplements, it appears the American public disagrees. In fact, in 2019 the Council for Responsible Nutrition reported in its Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements that 79% of adult females and 74% of adult males used dietary supplements with usage rates highest among those age 35 to 54 (81%) and those age >55 (79%).1
A multivitamin was found to be the most popular supplement (58%) followed by vitamin D (31%), vitamin C (28%), and protein (21%). The top reason for taking a dietary supplement was to improve overall health and wellness. Notably, supplement users were more likely to practice healthy lifestyle habits than non-users and less than one-quarter of supplements taken by adults were recommended by their physician or other health care provider.

Post activity survey link: https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=159243938867