Usage of nutritional supplements and its side effects among gym goers in Pune

Nutritional supplements have always been a point of attraction for physically active people. These have improved exercise performance, increased muscular strength, weight gain or weight loss, etc. The irrational use of supplements has led to various side effects associated with them. There is a shortage of evidence suggesting the usage and knowledge regarding the consumption of dietary supplements. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a 121 sample size randomly chosen from 5 different zones of the city. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect information wherein participants reported their demographics, physical activity, supplement usage patterns, source of information, and side effects. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, was used with p<0.05 as significant. Samples used different dosages, forms, brands, and access to supplements. The participants coming to the gym for more extended periods were likely to consume supplements in higher dosages (p = 0.020). Protein powder was consumed by 97.5% of the samples. There was a significant association between different types of supplements across gender, age group, and period of exercising in the gym. Side effects such as cramps (p = 0.015) and nausea were significantly associated with high dosages of supplement consumption. The majority of them (51.2%) took advice from trainers. Only 9.9% consulted dieticians. Individuals consumed supplements without the guidance of any health professionals, which was predisposing them to various side effects. This reflects a lack of knowledge and awareness of supplement usage and highlights educating various stakeholders and gym-goers.