ABSTRACT

Optimum athletic performance is a common goal for many of today’s young athletes. While one can likely reach their full athletic potential through proper training and diet, it is not uncommon for athletes to consider dietary supplements in an effort to enhance performance. Although a “food-rst” approach is encouraged, the fact that supplement use is common among youth, particularly those involved in athletics, should not be ignored. This chapter will focus on the most common nutritional supplements taken by youth, their mechanisms of action, potential ergogenic effects, their regulation by the government, safety concerns, and resources for making an informed decision regarding supplement use.