Final answer:
The claim that supplements are necessary due to a lack of nutrients in modern food is largely a marketing strategy. A balanced diet is the primary and ideal source of nutrients for health, which supplements can't entirely replace. The FDA does not approve supplement health claims as they do for medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The claim that supplements are necessary because today's foods lack sufficient nutrients to support health is considered by many health professionals and nutritional scientists to be a marketing strategy rather than a fact-based statement. While it's true that dietary supplements can provide vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, the primary source of these nutrients should ideally be a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods also contain phytochemicals and fiber that are not found in supplements, which are essential for good health. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve the health claims made by supplement manufacturers in the same way it does for pharmaceuticals, and a disclaimer must be present stating that the product is not intended "to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease." Therefore, supplements should not be seen as a substitute for a healthy diet but may be used to complement it in certain cases where dietary deficiencies are known.