Additional items that complete or enhance something; vitamins, minerals, or other substances taken to improve health or nutrition.
From Latin 'supplementum' meaning 'something added to complete,' from 'supplere' (to fill up). The health/nutrition sense developed in the 20th century as understanding of vitamins grew.
The word 'supplement' beautifully captures its function - it comes from Latin 'to fill up,' suggesting these products fill nutritional gaps. It's the same root as 'supply,' reflecting the idea of providing what's missing.
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