HEALTH & SPORTS FOODS
SUPPLEMENTS
“In most cases [individuals] can meet their nutritional needs through consumption of a well-planned, healthful diet. It should also be stressed that micronutrient supplementation is more likely to improve health and performance in subjects that are deficient in the micronutrient rather than in those who have normal biochemical levels” (Rawson). The best way to get adequate macronutrients and micronutrients is through eating a healthy and balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
HEALTH FOODS
There is a great variety of health foods marketed to concerned consumers. Despite marketing claims, foods that are minimally processed and sustainably produced are healthier overall when compared to other foods on the market. Pesticides and many artificial additives in food or food packaging contain potentially hazardous chemicals. For instance, “Increased exposure to pesticides can lead to increased risk of ADHD and autism. It is also linked to reduced cognitive skills, ability to learn and memory. Exposure to pesticides may lead to the development of Parkinson’s disease, fertility issues and cognitive decline later in life. There is also a potential link between cancer and pesticides. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified three common pesticides as carcinogenic. The primary exposure in humans was through diet” (Are oganic foods really healthier? Two pediatricians break it down).
PROTEIN POWDER
“To make such supplements, protein is extracted from animal or plant-based sources, which range from cow’s milk and eggs to peas, rice, and soy. During processing, naturally occurring carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and fiber are often removed, while supplementary nutrients, herbs, and even sweeteners may be added. Anyone considering protein powder should understand that it is classified as a dietary supplement, which means it is not regulated in the same way as food or medicine… Though the FDA created Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to help minimize adverse issues, compliance with these procedures remains a concern. In 2017, roughly a quarter of supplement-manufacturing companies whose products were tested received citations related to purity, strength, and ingredient content. That said, there are accredited organizations, like NSF International, that independently test supplements, including protein powders. NSF’s “Certified for Sport” designation ensures that contents match what is on the label, and that the product is GMP-registered and does not contain unsafe levels of toxic metals like arsenic and mercury” (The scoop on protein powder).
SPORTS DRINKS
Sports drinks are sold to athletes to rehydrate and replenish lost electrolytes. Although marketed as an electrolyte replacement drink, the main ingredient in sports drinks are carbohydrates, in the form of sugars, along with some major electrolytes. Water remains the best drink for rehydration, but sports drinks containing multiple carbohydrates may help some athletes. “When dehydration or hyperthermia is the major threat to performance, water replacement is the primary consideration. In prolonged endurance events, where muscle glycogen and blood glucose are the primary energy sources, carbohydrate replacement… may help improve performance. In very prolonged exercise in the heat with heavy sweat losses… electrolyte replacement may be essential to prevent heat injury” (Rawson).
References
Are organic foods really healthier? Two pediatricians break it down. (April 5, 2019). UC Davis Health. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/are-organic-foods-really-healthier-two-pediatricians-break-it-down/2019/04. For article, click here.
Rawson, E.S., Branch, J.D. & Stephenson, T.J. (2020). Williams’ Nutrition for Health, Fitness, & Sport. McGraw Hill Education.
The scoop on protein powder. (March 9, 2020). Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-scoop-on-protein-powder-2020030918986. For article, click here.