A framework for developing intake and use guidance for dietary supplement bioactives

Authors: Novotny Dura, Janet; DWYER, JOHANNA - Tufts University; FERRUZZI, MARIO - Virginia Polytechnic Institution & State University; GURLEY, BILL - University Of Mississippi; KAROSAS, TASIJA - International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI); KAY, COLIN - University Of Arkansas; MYERS, ESTHER - Consultant; SHAO, ANDREW - Niagen Bioscience; WEAVER, CONNIE - San Diego State University

Submitted to: Advances in Nutrition
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/20/2026
Publication Date: 6/15/2026
Citation: Novotny Dura, J., Dwyer, J., Ferruzzi, M.G., Gurley, B., Karosas, T., Kay, C., Myers, E., Shao, A., Weaver, C. 2026. A framework for developing intake and use guidance for dietary supplement bioactives. Advances in Nutrition. 6(17). Article 100623. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2026.100623.

Interpretive Summary: Dietary bioactives, which are commonly found in food, beverages, and dietary supplements, include non-essential food components that can support health beyond preventing nutrient deficiencies. Despite their known health benefits and potential for adverse effects, there is limited guidance on appropriate intake levels, safety, and efficacy of these ingredients, particularly those present in dietary supplements. This lack of guidance can be challenging for individuals attempting to make informed decisions about products marketed for health benefits. This paper builds upon a previously developed framework on food bioactives by addressing the specific factors that must be considered when developing intake guidance for bioactive constituents found in dietary supplements. These include differences in dose, matrix, purity, bioavailability, and intended use. In doing so, this paper aims to advance the development of evidence-based recommendations for dietary supplements, while also highlighting the fundamental distinctions between bioactive constituents delivered through food versus those delivered through dietary supplements. This information will be used by health professionals, researchers, and nutrition policy professionals.

Technical Abstract: Dietary bioactives, which are commonly found in food, beverages, and dietary supplements, include non-essential food components that can support health beyond preventing nutrient deficiencies. Despite their known health benefits and potential for adverse effects, there is limited guidance on appropriate intake levels, safety, and efficacy of these ingredients, particularly those present in dietary supplements. This lack of guidance can be challenging for individuals attempting to make informed decisions about products marketed for health benefits. A previously published perspective paper proposed a 4-step framework for developing quantitative intake recommendations for bioactive constituents in food. This framework addressed bioactive characterization, safety evaluation, efficacy assessment, and how to develop intake levels from foods. However, it did not account for the unique characteristics of bioactives consumed in dietary supplement form. The current paper builds upon the original framework by addressing the specific factors that must be considered when developing intake guidance for bioactive constituents found in dietary supplements. These include differences in dose, matrix, purity, bioavailability, and intended use. In doing so, this paper aims to advance the development of evidence-based recommendations for supplements, while also highlighting the fundamental distinctions between bioactive constituents delivered through food versus those delivered through dietary supplements.