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Nutrient intake and dietary supplementation in body-builders
1National Research Institute for Nutritional Diseases, South African Medical Research Council, Parowvallei, CP.
South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|December 19, 1987
Summary
Bodybuilders frequently use vitamin/mineral pills and protein powders, often exceeding recommended nutrient intake. Their regular diets provide adequate nutrients, making supplements unnecessary and potentially unjustified.
Area of Science:
- Sports Nutrition
- Human Nutrition
- Dietary Supplements
Background:
- Bodybuilders commonly use dietary supplements, including vitamin/mineral pills and protein powders.
- High protein intake is prevalent, with diets often exceeding 2.2 g/kg body weight.
- The necessity and benefits of supplementation in this population are frequently debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the micronutrient intake of bodybuilders.
- To evaluate the contribution of dietary supplements to nutrient intake.
- To determine if supplementation is justified based on US Recommended Dietary Allowances.
Main Methods:
- Studied the dietary intake of 76 bodybuilders.
- Assessed the use and quantity of vitamin/mineral pills and protein powders.
- Compared total nutrient intake (diet + supplements) against US Recommended Dietary Allowances.
Main Results:
- 63% of subjects used vitamin/mineral pills, with one consuming up to 87 pills daily.
- 59% used high-protein powders, despite diets already high in protein.
- Dietary supplements provided a significant portion of micronutrients, while food alone met US Recommended Dietary Allowances.
Conclusions:
- The diets of the studied bodybuilders adequately met US Recommended Dietary Allowances for most nutrients.
- The extensive use of dietary supplements by bodybuilders is not justified based on nutrient adequacy from food alone.
- Further research may be needed to clarify the specific benefits or risks of high-dose supplementation in athletes.