Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Vitamin and Dietary Supplement Use Among Thai Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Review of an Exiting Trends, Determinants, and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Vitamin and dietary supplement use increasingly among Thai adolescents and young adults driven by many factors including lifestyle trends, marketing, and information of health benefits. However, from limitation of health literacy, self-directed consumption without instruction from professional, these lead to a public health take a consideration. This study aims for an evidence on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) also to identify key determinants, health implications, and policy considerations. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ThaiJO, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2000 and July 2025. Eligible studies focused on KAP or determinants of supplement use in Thai adolescents (10-19 years) and young adults (20-24 years), and data were extracted and synthesized, narratively.
From the study results, vitamin and dietary supplement use was prevalent, often motivated by beauty ideals, peer influence, and targeted marketing rather than a clinical need. Knowledge was variable, with common misconceptions regarding benefits and safety. Attitudes were generally positive, with perceived health improvement as a key driver. Practices included high rates of self-purchase and online ordering, often without professional advice. Reported health implications ranged from perceived benefits to potential adverse effects. Policy analysis highlighted limited regulation of marketing claims and insufficient targeted public health interventions.
Self-directed supplement use among Thai adolescents and young adults requires
a need for enhanced health literacy, evidence-based education, and stricter marketing regulation to ensure safe and informed consumption.