CONSUMPTION OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS AMONG INDIVIDUALS IN PORTO ALEGRE´S FITNESS CENTERS

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify the prevalence of the use of food supplements at fitness centers in the city of Porto Alegre. Were interviewed 316 individuals at an age range between 18 and 59. Individuals participated voluntarily in 22 fitness centers in the city. The study has revealed a significant use of nutritional supplements by the participants (28.8%) and men intake more supplements than women (p<0.05). The most common supplements reported in the study were those mainly based on proteins, which are mainly chosen because of suggestions made by physical educators. The high intake of nutritional supplements indicates the necessity of alerting the population about the risks related to the inappropriate use of nutritional supplements.