Supplementation

Vitamins/Minerals

Vitamins
- Vitamins do not provide energy directly but catalyses the process of absorbing nutrients that provide energy.
- Assists in functions including release of energy, regulation of metabolic pathways and building tissues.
- Vitamin supplements are provided in specific cases and not required for everybody to intake.
- Harmful for the body if taken in excessive amounts.
Minerals
- Inorganic supplements that play a role in homeostasis and facilitating physiological processes by forming salts that conduct electrical energy.
- Most common mineral deficiency experienced by athletes are iron and calcium deficiency.
- Iron is required for biosynthesis of red blood cells as weIl as haemoglobin. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia.
- Calcium is an important element in bone construction. Calcium deficiency causes a disease called osteoporosis that makes bones become weak and brittle.

Protein

Essential for growth and repair of muscle and other body tissues.
Found in abundance in normal diet supplements, therefore, extra supplements aren’t necessary.
Should be consumed in an adequate amount like other nutrient sources, as excessive protein accumulation in the body can lead to liver and kidney diseases.

Caffeine

A stimulant of the Central Nervous System that makes it agile.
Caffeine facilitates fat mobilisation that makes it a usable energy source. This spares glycogen from being used up. This is why caffeine has its benefits for endurance athletes.
Helps minimize fatigue and increase concentration for a period of time.
Excessive intake of caffeine should be avoided since it is a diuretic.
Caffeine if taken in high amounts in hot and humid conditions can cause dehydration.

Creatine Products