10 Popular Supplements You May Not Need

Experts say many supplements are unnecessary and can even be risky.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A new report examines 10 of the most popular dietary supplements that people in the United States take, and suggests that many of them are unnecessary and can even be risky. Experts recommend getting important nutrients from a balanced diet instead of relying on supplements.

Why it matters

Supplement use is widespread, with over half of U.S. adults reporting regular use. However, many of these supplements may provide little benefit and could potentially interact with medications or contain contaminants. Understanding which supplements are truly necessary can help people make healthier choices.

The details

The report highlights 10 popular supplements - multivitamins, magnesium, probiotics/prebiotics, fish oil, vitamin C, collagen, vitamin B12, protein powder, fiber, and greens powder - and explains why most people can get the same benefits from a balanced diet. For example, multivitamins are unnecessary for those who eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods. Similarly, omega-3s from fatty fish are preferable to fish oil supplements, and fiber is better obtained from high-fiber foods rather than supplements.

  • The report was published on February 21, 2026.

The players

Marily Oppezzo

A dietitian and researcher at Stanford University who has been surprised by the number of supplements her clients take.

JoAnn Manson

A professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School who warns that supplements can contain contaminants or interact with medications.

Wesley McWhorter

A dietitian in Houston who says greens powders are little more than "glorified multivitamins".

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What they’re saying

“Many of the supplements people take are unnecessary, and can even be risky. Supplements can contain contaminants or excessive levels of nutrients, or interact with certain over-the-counter or prescription medications.”

— JoAnn Manson, Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School (The New York Times)

“They definitely don't replace the act of eating your actual vegetables.”

— Wesley McWhorter, Dietitian (The New York Times)

The takeaway

This report highlights the importance of getting essential nutrients from a balanced, whole-food diet rather than relying on supplements, which can be unnecessary and potentially risky. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods, people can support their health without the potential downsides of supplement use.