Introduction
In the world of sports, high achievements directly depend on physical fitness, recovery speed, and endurance. Dietary supplements (DS) help athletes replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other essential elements, improving athletic performance. However, not all supplements are approved for use in professional sports. Some DS contain substances that are on the list of substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), and their use may lead to disqualification or other sanctions.
In this article, we will look at which dietary supplements are prohibited for athletes, why they are blacklisted, and what safe alternatives exist.
Why are some dietary supplements banned in sports?
The ban on the use of certain additives is related to several factors:
- Doping effect. Some substances artificially increase endurance, strength and speed, creating an unfair advantage in competitions.
- Negative impact on health. Some components of dietary supplements can have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system, liver, kidneys and other organs.
- Risk of contamination: Low-quality supplements may contain traces of prohibited substances due to violation of production standards.
- Manipulation of hormonal levels. Some dietary supplements can increase testosterone or other hormone levels, which is considered a violation of sports standards.
Main groups of prohibited dietary supplements
Anabolic steroid
Anabolics are actively used for accelerated muscle mass gain and strength increase. They affect testosterone levels, which gives a short-term effect of increased strength and endurance. However, anabolic steroids are prohibited due to their serious side effects:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Suppression of the reproductive system
- Increased aggression
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Examples:
- Methandrostenolone (Danabol)
- Oxandrolone
- Stanozolol
- Testosterone
Stimulants
Stimulants temporarily increase energy and endurance by affecting the nervous system. They can cause addiction, nervous system fatigue, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Examples:
- Amphetamines
- Ephedrine
- Cocaine
- Methylhexanamine
Diuretics
Diuretics are used to quickly remove fluid from the body and reduce weight before weighing in. They mask the presence of prohibited substances in the body, but they also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Examples:
- Furosemide
- Torasemide
- Spironolactone
Narcotic analgesics
Narcotic painkillers are used to control pain during competitions. They are addictive and depress the respiratory system.
Examples:
- Morphine
- Fentanyl
- Oxycodone
- Codeine
Cannabinoids
Despite legalization in some countries, cannabinoids remain banned in professional sports because they can have psychoactive effects and reduce motivation and concentration.
Examples:
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
- Hashish
- Marijuana
Beta blockers
Beta blockers reduce heart rate and anxiety, helping athletes stay calm in stressful situations. They are banned in sports that require high concentration (such as shooting).
Examples:
- Propranolol
- Metoprolol
- Atenolol
Hormones and growth factors
The use of hormones to increase endurance and speed up recovery is prohibited, as this is considered an artificial intervention in the physiology of the body.
Examples:
- Erythropoietin (EPO)
- Growth hormone
- Insulin
The Risk of Hidden Banned Substances in Dietary Supplements
Even if the supplement does not contain prohibited components, there is a risk of accidental contamination or mislabeling. Reasons:
- Failure to comply with production standards
- Presence of traces of prohibited substances in raw materials
- Marketing manipulations of manufacturers
Example:
In 2017, WADA found traces of sibutramine (an appetite suppressant) in a weight loss supplement, although it was not listed as an ingredient.
How to Avoid Risk and Choose Safe Sports Supplements
- Check certification. Choose supplements certified by international organizations (GMP, ISO).
- Beware of products with unsubstantiated claims. Promises of instant muscle gains or energy often indicate hidden stimulants.
- Choose a trusted manufacturer. Well-known brands with a reputation for quality and transparency minimize risk.
- Study the WADA list of prohibited substances. Before starting to take new supplements, check their composition for compliance with the requirements of the anti-doping agency.
Safe Alternatives to Banned Dietary Supplements
If you want to improve your athletic performance without the risk of impairment, it is worth choosing safe and proven supplements:
- BCAA – to speed up recovery and prevent catabolism
- Creatine – to increase strength and muscle mass
- Omega-3 – to protect joints and improve cardiovascular function
- Magnesium – to normalize the functioning of the nervous system and prevent seizures
- ZMA (zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6) – to maintain testosterone levels and improve sleep quality
- Multivitamins – to replenish vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Why choose dietary supplements from ALPHAMALE.ltd (brand HEISEN st)
HEISEN st products from ALPHAMALE.ltd comply with international quality standards and undergo strict control at all stages of production.
- Safe composition without prohibited components
- Full compliance with WADA requirements
- High bioavailability and efficacy
- International quality certificates (GMP, ISO)
- Fast delivery and favorable conditions for wholesale partners
Supplements from HEISEN st are a guarantee of quality and safety for professional athletes.
Conclusion
Sports dietary supplements play an important role in achieving high results, but choosing supplements requires attention and caution. Study the composition, check the certification and choose trusted brands. With HEISEN st products from ALPHAMALE.ltd you can be sure of the quality and safety of each supplement.
Buy sports supplements wholesale directly from the manufacturer