engleski

Supplement Use in Adolescents Concerning Their Engagement in Sport

The consumption of dietary supplements is widely spread among adolescents. They often research topics related to healthy eating and supplements. The focus of this study was to determine differences in the frequency and types of supplements used by adolescents and their dietary habits concerning their engagement in sport. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for all variables. Differences between groups were determined by t-test (significance level p<0.05). The 74% of adolescents use supplements, most often using vitamins and minerals while much less often proteins and amino acids. As reasons for using supplements, non-athletes state the improvement of health status and disease prevention, while athletes state as reasons the improvement of sports performance and the increase or decrease of body weight. Adolescents who engage in sports have better dietary habits and are more often informed about nutrition than adolescents who do not engage in sports. They also use dietary supplements more often ; consume more fruits and vegetables, and dairy products. Furthermore 51.26% of adolescents are aware of too little knowledge about supplements and 48.97% of them want to know more. It can be concluded that adolescents show interest in supplements and their intake and want to get more information on this topic. Athletes should be aware of the fact that nutrient needs should be provided through food, rather than supplements. Adolescents should be educated about appropriate supplements use and proper food intake.

supplements ; adolescents, sport, dietary habits

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