Risks of Supplement Use

Supplements are often used by athletes to enhance performance, recover from workouts, or maintain nutritional balance. However, the use of dietary supplements carries significant risks, especially in the context of anti-doping regulations.

Risks Associated with Supplements:
Contamination and Mislabeling

• Supplements may contain prohibited substances not listed on their labels due to contamination or intentional mislabeling by manufacturers. This can lead to inadvertent doping violations.

Lack of FDA Regulation

• Supplements are not strictly regulated, which means their safety, efficacy, and quality are not guaranteed. This variability can pose health risks and lead to positive doping tests.

Adverse Health Effects

• Some supplements can have harmful side effects, especially when not used as directed, combined with other supplements or medications, or used by individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

 

Minimizing Risks When Choosing Supplements

1. Check for third-party testing. Look for supplements that have been tested by reputable third-party organizations like NSF Certified for Sport, or Supplement Connect.
2. Consult with a healthcare professional. Before starting any new supplement, consult with your doctor or nutritionist.
3. Educate yourself about ingredients. Familiarize yourself with the common ingredients found in supplements and understand which are prohibited or potentially harmful. Utilize resources like the WADA Prohibited List  to check if any components are banned in sport.
4. Choose reputable brands. Opt for supplements from well-established and reputable manufacturers. Research the brand’s history, read user reviews, and check their compliance with manufacturing standards.