Synchro Swimming Forum

Once I got to the level where I was being regularly and randomly drug tested, I had to be extra careful with every kind of supplement or even vitamin I took. USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) didn't recommend taking any supplements because even if no banned or restricted ingredients were listed on the label, there was no way to know if it was contaminated or not with something that was. Intese, I know!

Here's a link to USADA for more info: http://www.usantidoping.org/

I'm a little late to the party but can add .02.  Last weekend I attended (as a parent) a Nutrition seminar held by my daughter's club.  The Registered Dietician actually recommends against supplementation.  She feels that a well balanced diet and attention to nutrition needs during training and competition is enough.  However, she also feels that if a parent or athlete is concerned, they should consult a doctor, nutritionist or dietician to have a professional review the diet and do any testing necessary to determine if there is a need for supplements.

The most interesting fact I learned at the seminar was that protien needs fluids to metabolize and this can lead to dehydration if eaten at the wrong point in the competitve diet.