CREATINE AND OTHER DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

RESTON, VA, October 12, 1999

An independent, objective and scientifically accurate appraisal of nutritional supplements for athletes has been published by the National Association for Sport & Physical Education (NASPE).

Written by Samuel Headley, Ph.D., F.A.C.S.M., of Springfield College, Springfield, MA, and Susan Massad, H.S.D., R.D., Framingham State College, Framingham, MA, Nutritional Supplements for Athletes is based on current scientific research about the most popular nutritional supplements including 1) protein, amino acids, and related metabolites; 2) lipid and lipid metabolites; 3) carbohydrate and carbohydrate metabolites; 4) fluid replacement drinks; 5) vitamins and minerals; 6) food drugs; and 7) other dietary supplements such as creatine.

According to NASPE Executive Director Judy Young, "NASPE published this book to educate coaches, athletic trainers, physical educators, parents, or anyone else involved in guiding young athletes on the critical considerations in using nutritional supplements to enhance sport performance."

The key factors in safe enhancement of sport performance are a proper, balanced diet and hydration, appropriate conditioning and skill/team preparation. Nothing about the possible benefits of specific supplements should be considered a recommendation for its use. For each supplement, the authors have included a description of the product, the proposed mechanism of action for that product, the research evidence related to the efficacy of the product as an ergogenic aid, any documented side effects associated with its use, and the dosages used by investigators. Analysis is provided about some of the myths surrounding the benefits of products as well as the potential health risks inherent to consuming large doses of these products.

According to the authors, "There are some well-researched and effective products on the market. However, athletes need to realize that these can only help them when combined with a well-designed training program, and a balanced diet. There is no nutritional magic bullet and there are no shortcuts to success." They advise consumers to be cautious about believing manufacturers¹ claims if:

* There is no independent research to support the claims
* The research has been poorly conducted or if the research evidence has never been verified by other researchers apart from those employed by the manufacturer
* Unusually rapid improvements are promised and anecdotal information alone is used to substantiate their claims
* A "secret ingredient" is said to be found in the product and when the product is exorbitantly priced compared to natural ingredients from which the product is made.

To order a copy of Nutritional Supplements for Athletes, call the AAHPERD/NASPE publications department at 1-800-321-0789. The cost is $16 for AAHPERD members and $24 for non-members. The stock number is 304-10202.

For more information, contact:
Paula Keyes Kun (703) 476-3461

Learn more about the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) at www.aahperd.org, the web site of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (AAHPERD). NASPE is the largest of AAHPERDís six national associations. A nonprofit membership organization of over 25,000 professionals in the fitness and physical activity fields, NASPE is the only national association dedicated to strengthening basic knowledge about sport and physical education among professionals and the general public. Putting that knowledge into action in schools and communities across the nation is critical to improved academic performance, social reform and the health of individuals.