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Published in Sports medicine, Physiology.

Supplementation in Active Sports

Author Naya Medic date .

Active athletes are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which involves increased production of free radicals and a deficiency of antioxidants. These processes, if not properly managed, can lead to injuries. The first and most crucial step in injury prevention is personalized supplementation.

Is supplementation truly necessary for athletes?

Not every athlete requires supplementation, as dosages are highly individual. The need for supplements is determined based on the following factors:

  • Type of Sport: Athletes engaged in demanding sports with high energy expenditure may have increased supplementation needs.
  • Competition Level: Athletes competing at an elite level often require greater support through supplementation.
  • Quality of Nutrition: Athletes who face challenges in accessing high-quality food due to their environment may have additional supplementation needs.
  • Blood Test Results: A deficiency in specific nutrients, identified through laboratory analyses, may indicate the need for supplementation.

How can I determine the right supplementation for me?

At Naya Medic Clinic, athletes can undergo a comprehensive analysis to identify the supplements their bodies need to achieve optimal performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Athletes receive laboratory tests that assess oxidative stress, mineral levels, vitamins, and biochemical markers. Based on the results, one of the following therapies is recommended depending on the body's condition: EGCG, NAC, Sodium Ascorbate, and NMN.

The effects of the therapy become noticeable within three months, at which point follow-up blood tests are conducted. Based on these results, continued therapy is advised until the body's equilibrium is achieved.

Key Factors for Performance Enhancement

To improve their performance, athletes should focus on the following key aspects:

  1. Energy Intake: Athletes achieve better results when they maintain an energy balance, as opposed to those experiencing a deficit.
  2. Macronutrients Based on Sport: Different sports have specific metabolic demands. For example, basketball players typically require a higher intake of carbohydrates compared to shot put athletes to meet the energy demands of their sport.
  3. Adequate Micronutrient Intake: It is essential to avoid deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D or iron, to maintain optimal performance.
  4. Hydration: Ensure that athletes consume an adequate amount of fluids to stay properly hydrated.

Do athletes need vitamin supplementation?

Generally, athletes do not need additional vitamin supplements unless there is a specific requirement. Consuming vitamins and minerals beyond recommended levels typically does not enhance physical performance.

However, athletes with an unbalanced diet or those engaged in sports where weight control is crucial may be at a higher risk of vitamin or mineral deficiencies. In such cases, vitamin supplementation can offer certain benefits.

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