title: Sports supplements: a modern case of caveat emptor.
abstract: Performance is the combination of favorable genetics, proper training, and a sound approach to nutrition. Athletes attempting to gain a competitive edge often try artificial means of improving speed, strength, and endurance. Although some use oral or injectable medications, others turn to nutritional supplements. This article focuses on some of the most common methods athletes use to enhance performance. Reported dosages, representative studies, and potential side effects are reviewed, along with guidelines for evaluating supplements, and the claims of their manufacturers.
authors.affiliation: Group Health Northwest, PO Box 2555, Suite 730, Spokane, WA 99220-2555, USA. pearce.p@ghc.org
authors.forename: P Z
authors.initials: PZ
authors.lastname: Pearce
mesh_terms: D000596:Amino Acids / Q000494:pharmacology; D045930:Anabolic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000494:pharmacology; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000494:pharmacology; D003163:Competitive Behavior; D004032:Diet / Q000379:methods; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004300:Doping in Sports / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008660:Metabolism / Q000187:drug effects; D013177:Sports / Q000502:physiology; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis
chemical_list: D000596:Amino Acids; D045930:Anabolic Agents; D000975:Antioxidants; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants