Many athletes try to increase their strength so they can perform well during their events or games. Working out at the gym is a great start, but some athletes may also take supplements to gain an edge. These supplements include creatine, protein powder, pre-workout and more. They might work in the beginning, but they do not always have a positive effect in the long run. Here are some pros and cons of popular supplements for athletes:

Creatine

Pros: creatine can help improve your strength, increase lean muscle mass but one of the best effects is that it helps your muscles recover quicker which can lead to many positive outcomes. This can make your workouts last longer so you are able to do more, but it can also help you recover in time for games or practices. 

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Cons: The downside of taking creatine is that it can make you very bloated and cause stomach discomfort. You must limit your dose size to prevent these side effects. 

Protein Powder 

Pros: Protein is generally a very safe supplement for athletes to take and added protein can help you build muscle and repair tissue. 

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Cons: Protein can add some weight as well as increasing your calories and added sugars. This can cause an unhealthy spike in blood sugar. 

Choosing to take supplements is a very personal decision for athletes so be sure to do your research beforehand. If you decide to take any of these or any other supplements, make sure you talk to your doctor first and heed their expertise as the side effects of supplementation can differ for everyone. Above all, remember: fancy supplements will not replace your hard work at the gym!

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* Originally published on September 1, 2022, by Chris Russo