Yes, supplements are primarily taken orally.
According to the definition of dietary supplements, they are products that are ingested. This specifically means they must be swallowed. This requirement distinguishes supplements from other types of products like those applied topically (to the skin) or inhaled (breathed in), which are not considered dietary supplements.
Forms of Oral Supplements
Dietary supplements come in various forms that are designed for swallowing. These include:
- Pills
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Gummies
- Softgels
- Liquids
- Powders (often mixed with liquid before ingesting)
Each of these forms provides a convenient way for the body to ingest the supplement's ingredients.
Why Oral Administration is Key
The definition underscores that being swallowed is a fundamental characteristic of dietary supplements. This ensures that the active ingredients enter the digestive system, where they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and utilized by the body. Products that deliver nutrients or other substances through non-oral routes, such as creams or nasal sprays, fall into different regulatory categories and are not classified as dietary supplements based on this requirement.
Therefore, when you encounter a product labeled as a dietary supplement, you can expect it to be intended for consumption by mouth, meaning it must be swallowed.
