While athletes may have higher vitamin and mineral requirements than non-athletes, there are currently no recommendations on how much more they need. In fact, different articles recommend that, in general, people should get all the nutrients they need only from the food they eat. So, should athletes take supplements?
It may be the most common question sports nutritionists get from athletes, but in order to arrive at an answer, it is important to start by understanding how micronutrients help the body. Its main function is to regulate and control metabolism . These are not energy ingredients, but essential ingredients that cannot be produced by our body, which is why they are obtained through food intake.
To know whether or not athletes should resort to supplements, the key is to discover what their nutritional deficiencies are and develop a diet plan . This does not mean that they have to analyze every food they eat, but it does mean that they must be aware of how their food choices affect their intake of vitamins and minerals .
Add vitamin supplements
While it is true that ideally they would meet the highest micronutrient needs through food alone, that can be difficult to achieve, especially with athletes who have restricted eating patterns , and it is precisely these types of athletes who are They would benefit from the intake of multivitamin supplements, but of course, not without first consulting with a nutritionist .
A basic supplement can fill the gaps caused by not eating properly, although in some cases it is also recommended for athletes who have a balanced diet , adequate in calories, but which has some inconsistencies.
According to the GUIADESUPLEMENTOS spokesman, Santiago Hernández, in case of resorting to a supplement, you should try to choose one that is consistent with the needs of each athlete. “The important thing is to avoid incurring megadose, which consists of taking supplements in doses greater than nutritional needs, in the hope of producing specific medical benefits. This has not only shown that it is probably ineffective , but also dangerous, ”he commented.
What should I keep in mind before purchasing a supplement?
In case the consumption of vitamin supplements is an option, here are some important points to consider:
- Seek third party verification to help ensure the safety of the dietary supplement.
- Avoid supplements that offer something that seems too good to be true.
- Avoid supplements that offer mega doses of vitamins and minerals.
- Buy your supplements in stores that change their supplies regularly.
- Once purchased, remember that vitamins lose their potency over time, especially if stored in warm temperatures or exposed to light.
Multivitamin or mineral supplements are intended to build a strong nutritional foundation. Teaching athletes the importance of a proper diet in general is the key to long-term success.
