Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic influenced dietary supplements' (DS) consumption and practices of traditional medicine.
Aims: This cross-sectional study aimed to compare dietary supplements, Prophetic medicine (PM) and herbal/plants (H/P) use among adults in Saudi Arabia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Method: 1351 individuals participated in the study via an online survey shared on social media platforms between December 11th, 2021, and March 1st, 2022. The survey tool included 31 questions about sociodemographics, DS consumption, PM practices and H/P use, which the expert panel team validated. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were presented as numbers and percentages. P-value <= 05 and 95% confidence intervals were used to report the statistical significance based on gender and prior infection with the COVID-19.
Results: The most common supplements consumed before the pandemic were Vitamin D (53.4%, n=358), Multivitamins (47.3%, n=318), and Vitamin C (42%, n=282). This is along with the significant increase in the consumption of Multivitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin D, Zinc and Calcium during the pandemic. Females are significantly (p < 0.001) more concerned in consuming DS and H/P and practice PM before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to males. Prior Covid-19 infection significantly impacted individuals' perception about DS, H/P and PM uses and practices, information and beliefs in their role in preventing and controlling the disease (p<0.05). Significant changes in weight status during the pandemic were reported.
Conclusion: There was a significant increase in consumption of most dietary supplements and Prophetic medicine practices. The government should launch public awareness campaigns and employ regulations to educate about the risks and benefits of self-medicated Prophetic medicine practices and self-prescribed dietary supplements.