Athlete Concerns Copy

Why should athletes be concerned about dietary supplements? If an athlete chooses to use supplements, they run the risk of potential harmful health effects and/or a positive doping control test.

HARMFUL HEALTH EFFECTS

It is impossible to predict the physiological impact of the ingredients within a specific supplement product. Athletes may experience adverse health effects after consuming products. For example, many reports of liver failure, heart palpitations, and other medical issues may or may not be reported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It remains the responsibility of the manufacturer to gather and report adverse events.

POSITIVE TEST

A positive test could quickly sidetrack or derail an athlete’s sporting career. According to the principle of strict liability, athletes are responsible for whatever goes into their bodies, including dietary supplements. There could be substances or contaminants included in the product that are not specifically listed on the product label. Therefore, even if an athlete compares the product label to the list of prohibited substances, there is a risk for a supplement to contain a prohibited substance. Why should athletes be concerned about dietary supplements? If an athlete chooses to use supplements, they run the risk of potential harmful health effects and/or a positive doping control test.