Basic Nutrition for Sports Participation, Part 2: Vitamins and Minerals
December 2020
in “
Current sports medicine reports
”
TLDR Athletes usually get enough vitamins and minerals from a healthy diet, and supplements are only needed for those with actual deficiencies.
The document discussed the importance of micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, in supporting energy production and overall health in athletes. It highlighted that while most micronutrients can be obtained through a balanced diet, athletes with restrictive diets might need supplementation, particularly for vitamin D, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Water-soluble vitamins (B and C) need daily replenishment through diet, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can be stored in the body but may cause toxicity if consumed excessively. The document emphasized that supplementation should be reserved for those with clinical deficiencies and that there is limited evidence supporting the enhancement of exercise performance through supplementation.
