Avaliação do consumo alimentar e composição corporal de praticantes de exercício físico consumidores de suplementos alimentares

Abstract

The use of dietary supplements has become increasingly frequent, especially among exercise practitioners. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between the use of dietary supplements and food consumption and body composition of exercise practitioners. The inclusion criteria were adults aged 18 to 59 years treated at the UFJF-GV Nutrition School Clinic, from January to August 2023. Pregnant and lactating women were excluded. The study evaluated records in medical records of the first consultation of individuals who signed the informed consent form. The records included a 24-hour dietary recall, a three-day food diary, a pre-consultation questionnaire, and anamnesis. Supplementation was assessed regarding type, brand, frequency, and dose. Participants were divided into two groups (With and Without Supplements) and the data were analyzed by chi-square and t-test, with a significance level of 5%. A total of 30 medical records were evaluated. Of these, 66.7% were female and 33.3% were male. The group With Supplements represented 46.67% of the sample (n=14) and Without Supplements 53.33% (n=16). The majority (83.3%) practiced weight training, and 90% reported moderate to intense activities. In addition, 66.3% had already consulted a nutritionist or followed a diet. Among those who used supplements (n=12 consumed creatine, n=5 whey protein, n=1 hypercaloric, n=1 beetroot concentrate, and n=2 carbohydrate gel) there was a percentage greater than 30% of inadequacy in the frequency or dose of consumption. Dietary consumption assessed by food surveys showed no significant differences between the groups, except for protein consumption, which was higher in the group with supplements, according to the R24h. Among the participants who used supplements, n=8 had protein consumption higher than international recommendations. The study revealed that the body composition of exercisers who used supplements was similar to that of those who did not. Supplement consumption was related to higher protein intake, but did not bring significant advantages for gaining fat-free mass. Inadequate use of whey and creatine was observed. The study showed the need to seek specialized guidance for the consumption of dietary supplements.