Sports Supplements! The low-down

Sports nutrition supplements include a variety of drinks, powders and pills designed to improve athletic performance and/or fill gaps in the diet of people who play sports or workout on a regular basis.

In this article, the focus is solely on sports drinks, protein powders and other performance-enhancing supplements.

As always, we recommend you talk to your doctor or registered dietician before you make dietary changes, particularly if you have a health condition or are taking prescription medications.

Considerations prior to consuming any supplements:

• Taking supplements does not replace a healthy diet however there may be times when a supplement is helpful, such as during specialised training, when your diet doesn't contain all essential nutrients, when you are ill or when you have a medical condition (as mentioned, if you have a medical condition it is essential you gain advice from a medical practitioner).

• Many supplements have extensive research behind them to prove their benefit, but a large number do not have enough evidence to support their use.

• Supplements are not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure diseases.

• The UK Foods Standards Agency does not have the ability to check the safety and effectiveness of every single supplement before they hit the market. Do your research and make sure you choose safe products. All products should be clearly labelled with an ingredients list.

SPORTS DRINKS

Electrolyte replacement drinks or sports drinks are meant to keep you hydrated by replacing the sodium and potassium you lose when you sweat. They can also keep blood glucose levels stable in order to make the most of your energy during endurance or high-intensity training. Sports drinks also prevent cramping.

However, if you are more of a casual/recreational athlete, the drinks can give you extra calories and sodium that you don’t need. Diabetics or those with heart failure should avoid them. There are lower-calorie and zero-calorie versions, but all contain sodium.

PROTEIN SUPPLEMENTS

Powdered protein is a convenient, portable source of protein for busy and active lifestyles. Many types are easy to digest and are quickly absorbed by your body, but be aware of extra unnecessary fillers and high amounts of artificial sweeteners. Like other supplements, powdered protein is not always fully tested for safety and effectiveness.

CREATINE

Creatine can help increase muscle strength and speed.

This supplement can be expensive. It can also cause bloating, digestive issues, low blood pressure, and increased sweat production. Like other supplements, creatine supplements are not fully tested in the UK for safety and effectiveness.

PERFORMANCE-ENHANCING SUPPLEMENTS

Performance-enhancing supplements like pre-workout powders and drinks, energy boosters and metabolism boosters often contain banned substances and it is absolutely essential you check their ingredients. They can lead to anxiety and gastrointestinal problems and are not at all recommended by Hendry's Health. There is also no scientific research to suggest they offer any proven benefits. There are many safe, natural dietary sources that can assist with boosting metabolism.

Hendry's Health aims to help you make informed decisions on nutritional choices and dietary supplements. We offer consultations with expert and experienced nutritional consultants and will answer questions to the best of our ability. Please do get in touch!

Here's to good performance!

Much love,

Leanne x