Performance-enhancing formulations and nutritional compounds for physically active individuals: Hidden risks and adverse reactions seldom discussed in mainstream discourse
Wojciech Wiśniewski
2026-03-19
4 min. read
29
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Owing to meticulously orchestrated promotional campaigns and a pervasive deficit of substantiated knowledge—frequently disseminated uncritically by gym enthusiasts—supplementation has become shrouded in a veil of misconceptions and unfounded claims. The purported exceptional attributes of these products continue to be emphasized, yet the vast majority of such promises lack empirical validation in peer-reviewed research, persisting instead as catchy advertising tropes designed to stimulate purchases without encouraging a discerning evaluation of genuine benefits or inherent risks.
Supplements for athletes
Supplements for athletes do not provide them with nutritional value, but they do have a positive effect on the body, increasing exercise performance, strength or concentration, but when they stop working we may feel nauseous and strong. These are the types: Pre-workout supplements have a stimulating function, so we often find caffeine, guarana, beta alanine, sometimes tyrosine, yerba mate and green tea extracts in their composition. They improve concentration and can improve strength during exercise, however, when they cease to work we may experience nausea and strength, but sometimes they are especially lacking.
Nutrition for the athletes
The main groups are: protein nutrients raw material for protein production is most often whey, obtained as a by-product in dairy production. This does not in any way mean that it is defective. Protein is a building block, and it accelerates the conversion of matter. Among whey proteins we distinguish between concentrates (WPC), isolates (W PC) and hydrolysates (WPH).
Dietary supplements for athletes side effects
Supplements and nutrients should not have any side effects when applied to the information on the packaging, but it is worth noting several possibilities: in case of lactose allergy, the composition of proteins and gainer should be read with particular care. Pre-workout products raise blood pressure and are therefore not recommended for people with high blood pressure or circulatory problems. Creatine when used in very high doses for a long time in people with kidney disease there is also a risk of damage to this organ.