The U.S. population is growing older every year. This may have a number of important health implications, but one of the most recent developments is that more people are now taking vitamins than ever before.

A recent report from the market research firm IBISWorld projected that the use of dietary supplements will increase at an annual rate of 4.5 percent over the next five years. The agency said that an aging population will be a primary driver in this trend.

The industry may have taken a hit during the recession, as most did. But the authors of the report believe that the pressing nature of health concerns will help vitamin and supplement manufacturers rebound strongly in the coming years.

Since more people in the U.S are living to advanced ages, a greater number are likely to experience health problems. Some will likely consult traditional medical doctors for these issues, but evidence has suggested that members of the baby boomer generation may be more interested in alternative treatments.