Use of Nutritional Ergogenic Aids by Adults Training for Health-Related Fitness in Gymnasia- A Scoping Review

Abstract

Globally, availability and usage of supplements by recreational young people in gymnasia is on the rise. Although certain aspects related to nutritional ergogenic aids and supplements prescribed in traditional Indian medicine, have been reported, no comprehensive global review is yet available. This Scoping Review was, therefore conducted in view of the gaps in research, needs for capacity building of concerned professionals, strengthening of knowledge, attitudes of trainees and for policy / regulations. A total of 16 key words were framed and 5 search engines were explored for this review. Through this search procedure 278 research papers were scrutinized (from 2000-to date) of which 31 were included, highlights higher prevalence of supplement use amongst males v/s females attending gymnasia. The most used supplements were nutrients and pharmacy (multivitamins, creatine), proteins (whey, amino acids), rationale of intake, dietary adequacy with respect to nutrients were not reported in the study. Main reason for use was a quest for increased immunity, weight gain and increased strength. The main sources of influence were gym coaches, medical supervisors and family-friends. Most common places of purchase were stores, gym / fitness centres and the internet. The review concludes that there is further scope of researching all age groups, gender differences in supplement use, basis of goal setting, efficacy of supplements in meeting the desired goals, KAP of influencing professional, mapping constructs for capacity building and potential suggestions for policy and regulations within fitness centres, especially in the Indian context.