Place and role of sietary supplements and ergogenic acid in sport nutrition

Abstract

The prevalence of dietary supplement consumption is big and shows a growing tendency. The usage of dietary supplements and ergogen substances are may be caused by supplement shortage of micronutrients, providing energy and macronutrients supply and direct and indirect performance enhancement. Only a few substances have clear evidence about their performance enchancing effects which belong to caffeine, creatine, sodium bicarbonate and dietary nitrates. Caffein has a stimulant effect on the central nerve system and stimulates the cardiovascular system. Moderate amounts of caffeine intake (about 2 cups of coffee) has a performance enahncing effect in certain sports. On the other hand, creatin, as an ergogenic substance, looks promising for high intensive volumen and short-term performance athletes, creatine has performance enhancing effects. The extracellulare buffer capacity is enhanced by sodium-bicarbonate, which has a potentially beneficial effect on short-term but persistently high intensity training for athletes. Before taking dietary supplements, consultation with a doctor/ nutritionist, it is necessary to eliminate possible risk factors and to ensure safe usage of dietary supplements.