What are ergogenic aids?
The word “ergogenic” is derived from the Greek word (ergon) which means to increase work or potential for work. Compounds such as bee pollen, caffeine, glycine, carnitine, lecithin, brewer’s yeast, and gelatin are claimed through anecdotal evidence to improve strength or endurance. Although ergogenic agents have been popular among athletes, scientific research has failed to substantiate the claims of these products. How prevalent is the use of supplements in the United States? Dietary supplements are widely available through many sources including health food stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and by mail. A review on the use of vitamins and minerals among athletes showed that athletes in general use supplements more often than 35-40% of the general population who use supplements. Elite athletes had a mean supplement use of 59% and college athletes had a mean supplement use of 43%. Multivitamins were the most frequent type of nutritional supplements. The second most frequent was vitam
