Traditional and nontraditional supplement use by collegiate female varsity athletes.
This study examined the traditional (single and multivitamin/mineral supplements) and nontraditional supplement (herbals, botanicals, and other biologic and nutrient supplements) use by female athletes. Frequency, reasons for use, and sources of supplement information were assessed with a self-report questionnaire. Participants were 162 collegiate female varsity athletes. More than half of all athletes used some type of supplement at least once a month (65.4%). Thirty-six percent (n = 58) of the sample used a multivitamin and mineral with iron. Twelve percent (n = 19) reported amino acid/protein supplement use and 17% (n = 29) used an herbal/botanical supplement. The most frequently cited reason for supplement use was "good health" (60.1%). A major source of information on supplements reported was family (53%). With the general rise in supplement use, nutrition education on the use of traditional and non-traditional supplements is warranted.
Herbold
Nancie H
NH
Dept of Nutrition at Simmons College, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Visconti
Bridget K
BK
Frates
Susan
S
Bandini
Linda
L
D000328:Adult; D019587:Dietary Supplements / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008903:Minerals / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013177:Sports; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D014815:Vitamins / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D008903:Minerals; D014815:Vitamins