Abstract

Contents: 1. Supplementation practices of athletes. 2. Definition of the dietary supplement. 3. The sports drink (carbohydrate/electrolyte beverage); 3.1. Use during exercise; 3.2. Use in post-exercise recovery. 4. High-carbohydrate supplements. 5. Liquid meal supplements; 5.1. Use as a high-energy supplement; 5.2. Use as a low-residue diet in preparation for competition; 5.3. Use as a pre-event meal. 6. Vitamin and multivitamin/mineral supplements. 7. Sports anaemia and iron supplements; 7.1. Iron supplements in treatment of iron deficiency; 7.2. Iron supplements in prevention of iron deficiency. 8. Calcium supplements. 9. Conclusions: There is a need for nutrition education of athletes to explain the appropriate use of these dietary supplements. In many cases, the information is specific to the individual athlete or sports situation and may require one-to-one counselling. In most situations, the use of the supplement will simply be a part of a larger plan of optimal sports nutrition or the clinical management of a nutritional disorder. Effective education will not only ensure that dietary supplements are used correctly, but will highlight the importance of optimal sports nutrition. Verf.-Referat