UTILIZATION OF PERFORMANCE-ENHANCING SUPPLEMENTS BY GYM USERS IN ABBOTTABAD CITY

Objective: To determine the frequency of supplement use among those who work out often in Abbottabad, Pakistan,and to talk about the variables that affect this consumption.Study design : a cross sectional studyDuration and place of study : Department of Biochemistry, Nowshera Medical College from jan 2016 to jan 2017Methods: This cross-sectional research included 100 registered people who worked out in 8 different gyms across thecity. All participants were at least 15 years old, and both men and women were recruited. In writing, participantswere asked to answer questions on their supplement usage. Four months were spent gathering the data. Chi-squaretests and descriptive statistics were performed.Results: Of the subjects, 51% reported using nutritional supplements. Men made up the largest intake (51.6%).Whey proteins (34.5%), protein shake bars (13.8%), creatine (20.7%), multivitamin/mineral supplements (6.9%),and mixed supplements (13.8%) were the five items that were almost always eaten. The majority (93%) said theyused dietary supplements mostly on the advice of their gym trainers and self-prescription, without seeking any specificexpert advice. Individuals younger than 30 years, mainly men (P < 0.05), took supplements rich in proteins (P <0.05). In contrast, older participants (>30 years) reported taking mixed supplements and natural/Phytotherapeuticagents (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Our results show that supplement intake in people exercising in gyms is high and is usually self-prescribed. We emphasize that dietary and performance-enhancing supplements must always be used under the supervisionof a specialist (physician or nutritionist).Keywords: Performance-enhancing nutritional supplements, Exercise, Serotonin, Natural/ Phytotherapeutic agents,FDA