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In an ideal world, no one would need dietary supplements. Our balanced diets would provide all the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients our bodies need. Alas, the world of American eating is far from ideal. And that, some nutrition experts and supplement advocates argue, is why we need dietary supplements. The latest federal data show that more than half of U.S. adults use dietary supplements, mostly multivitamins.
Supplements vs. whole foods. Supplements aren't intended to be a food substitute because they can't replicate all of the nutrients and benefits of whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. So depending on your situation and your eating habits, dietary supplements may not be worth the expense. An orange, for example, provides vitamin C plus some beta carotene, calcium and other nutrients. 2  It's likely these compounds work together to produce their beneficial effect. 3  Essential fiber. 4  Whole foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes, provide dietary fiber.