(08-02-11) How much is too much? A case report of nutritional supplement use of a high-performance athlete.

Carlsohn A, Cassel M, Linn? K, Mayer F.

University Outpatient Clinic Potsdam, Sports Medicine and Sports Orthopaedics,
University of Potsdam, Am Neuen Palais 10, Haus 12, 14469 Potsdam, Germany.
Abstract
Although dietary nutrient intake is often adequate, nutritional supplement use
is common among elite athletes. However, high-dose supplements or the use of
multiple supplements may exceed the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of
particular nutrients or even result in a daily intake above tolerable upper
limits (UL). The present case report presents nutritional intake data and
supplement use of a highly trained male swimmer competing at international
level. Habitual energy and micronutrient intake were analysed by 3 d dietary
reports. Supplement use and dosage were assessed, and total amount of nutrient
supply was calculated. Micronutrient intake was evaluated based on RDA and UL
as presented by the European Scientific Committee on Food, and maximum
permitted levels in supplements (MPL) are given. The athlete's diet provided
adequate micronutrient content well above RDA except for vitamin D.
Simultaneous use of ten different supplements was reported, resulting in excess
intake above tolerable UL for folate, vitamin E and Zn. Additionally, daily
supplement dosage was considerably above MPL for nine micronutrients consumed
as artificial products. Risks and possible side effects of exceeding UL by the
athlete are discussed. Athletes with high energy intake may be at risk of
exceeding UL of particular nutrients if multiple supplements are added.
Therefore, dietary counselling of athletes should include assessment of
habitual diet and nutritional supplement intake. Educating athletes to balance
their diets instead of taking supplements might be prudent to prevent health
risks that may occur with long-term excess nutrient intake.

Source: Br J Nutr. 2011 Jan 25:1-5. [Epub ahead of print]

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