Content Analysis of Nutritional Supplement Intake Patterns and Doping Risk Awareness among Domestic Adult Athletes

OBJECTIVES In this study, we aimed to identify the nutritional supplement consumption patterns of domestic adult athletes and analyze their perceptions of doping risk. METHODS A survey consisting of 18 questions was conducted. Data from 304 respondents were included, excluding data from six non-respondents. The data were processed by frequency and correlation analysis using SPSS Ver 25.0 and Python 3 software. The significance level was set at p<0.05. RESULTS Based on the highest number of answers received for each category, the nutritional supplement intake patterns of domestic adult athletes were as follows: intake once a day, intake 6-10 times a week, intake of one type of supplement, consistent intake every day regardless of competition, intake according to the individual’s needs for the purpose of recovery from fatigue, and purchasing through domestic websites. The patterns that showed the highest improvement rate were when the intake was once a day and 6-10 times per week. Daily intake was consistent regardless of competition, and purchases were made on domestic websites for nutritional supplementation with recommendations from family or friends. The next most effective patterns that showed high levels of improvement were intake 2 times per day, intake less than 5 times per week, intake after competition or training, the purpose of nutritional supplementation, followed by the intake of 1 type of supplement, selection based on broadcast media, and provided by their team/club. The doping risk of the product was most commonly investigated before purchase using the Korea Anti-Doping Agency’s banned substance search service. Side effects were diverse, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and increased heart rate. CONCLUSION Our findings can be used as marketing material to promote the sale of nutritional supplements or as a foundation for athletes to consume safer supplements.