The supplement industry, buoyed by a favorable public perception, repeatedly leverages three marketing myths to sell its products: everything “natural” is healthy, more of a good thing is always better, and doing something is better than doing nothing. Despite 74% of US adults taking supplements according to a 2023 survey, these products are not scrutinized by the FDA like pharmaceuticals. Companies can sell supplements without a formal approval process or providing evidence of safety.
A significant appeal to nature fallacy is prevalent in the marketing of supplements, with the assumption that if something is naturally derived, it must be good for you. This fallacious assumption is reinforced through branding and ad copy that emphasizes “natural” nutrition over “artificial” products.
The conviction that more of a good thing is always better is another fallacy that forms the backbone of supplement marketing. A common belief is that if a nutrient is beneficial to our health in small quantities, then more of it would be even better. This assumption overlooks the fact that our bodies tightly regulate levels of consumed nutrients.
The industry also leverages an action bias, insinuating that it’s preferable to do something rather than nothing, capturing those who feel that taking supplements would give them more control over their health. However, taking large doses of certain nutrients can result in detrimental health effects, and some supplements may interact adversely with prescribed medications.
While supplements may indeed aid specific health needs, it’s important to recognize the marketing myths employed and consider professional advice before taking them.
Source: A natural deception: 3 marketing myths the supplement industry wants you to swallow.
