Dietary Supplement Use in a Physically Active Population

摘要

The present study was designed to describe the prevalence of dietary supplement use, including androstenedione, ephedrine, and creatine, in a population of active-duty US Marines. Method: Participants completed a self- report questionnaire that was designed to assess behavioral and health factors in Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. Results: Fifty-four percent of the 1482 participants had used dietary supplements in the preceding year. Of the individuals who consumed supplements, 684 (87%) provided detailed Information regarding the type of supplement they used. Among supplement users, 443 (65%) consumed multiple supplements and 145 (21%) consumed at least 4 supplements. The most commonly used type of dietary supplement was muscle mass/strength aids (53%) followed by energy boosters (28%) and vitamins/minerals (27%). Of the specific supplements investigated, 350 (51%) of the supplement users consumed a supplement that contained ephedrine, 260 (38%) consumed creatine, and 75 (11%) individuals consumed androstenedione in the previous year. Conclusions: The level of dietary supplement use in this population requires further investigation due to the reported adverse effects of some of these products. Future studies are needed to determine the prevalence of use as well as the determinants of use In a variety of populations.