Use supplements wisely to boost your training and performance

Supplements are marketed as performance-enhancing products, and their use is quite common among fitness enthusiasts, gymnasts and athletes. However, little scientific evidence exists on the benefits of supplement use. In addition, it is important for athletes to be aware that their use may be associated with a risk of doping violations, as the ingredients of some supplement products may be unknown

The purpose of supplements is to supplement the diet for specific nutrients or other substances or to influence the individual's nutritional or physiological functions. Food supplements are not intended to replace a varied diet. They belong to the category of foodstuffs, although they may resemble medicinal products in their appearance and use.

Supplements may be helpful when your energy intake is insufficient (e.g., when you are on a diet) or when you are restricting your diet or following a special diet. Supplements can also be a great way to support a normal healthy diet in busy everyday life, for example, when traveling. There is good scientific evidence for the effectiveness of protein supplements and creatine, as well as caffeine, carbohydrate supplements, and beta-alanine. And in that order. Get your regular diet right, and only then invest in supplements.

You can learn more about supplements in our Basic Nutrition online course.