Prevalence and factors related to nutritional supplements use among gym attendees of Mexico City

Abstract

Introduction: In Mexico, the proportion of people who exercise and those who consume nutritional supplements has increased, which could imply a greater risk of undesirable consequences for health, because its use is not regulated. Previous studies have reported the relationship between the use of nutritional supplements with gym attendees’ sociodemographic characteristics, experience, and training goals, but not with indicators of body image self-perception.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 1,135 Mexican adults aged 18 to 40 years. Exercise, nutritional, and supplementation habits were investigated. Using Poisson regression models, the relationship of sociodemographic characteristics, exercise, and self-perceived body image with the use of NS was analyzed.

Results: 58.0% of the participants were men, 46.2% had consumed a NS and 35.4% currently used them. The most consumed NS were sports drinks (28.7%) and protein (23.6%). Supplement consumption was higher in men, in older participants, in those who have trained during more time, and those with functional impairment caused by training habits. Nutritionists were the third source to recommend NS, after coaches and friends.

Conclusions: Almost half of the gym attendees have consumed some NS. There are groups that are more likely to consume NS, which may require further investigation regarding the reasons that explain this situation.