Profile of High Performing Athletes Using Nutritional Supplements in the UK
Author Information
Author(s): Petroczi Andrea, Naughton Declan P
Primary Institution: Kingston University
Hypothesis
What is the profile of high-performing athletes in the UK who take nutritional supplements?
Conclusion
High levels of nutritional supplement use among certain athlete groups should be monitored due to the potential link to prohibited substance use.
Supporting Evidence
- 58.8% of high-performing athletes reported using at least one nutritional supplement.
- 82.6% of supplement users reported using more than one supplement.
- Creatine use was predominantly associated with male athletes.
Takeaway
Many athletes in the UK take nutritional supplements, and those who do often use more than one type, which could lead to problems.
Methodology
Survey data from 874 high-performing athletes were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Potential Biases
Potential for underreporting of prohibited substance use due to stigma.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 191 professional athletes and 329 lottery-funded athletes, with a majority being male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.035
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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