Knowledge and Behavior of Saudi College Athletes toward Energy and Sports Drinks with an Emphasis on Microbial Quality and Safety.

Sulaiman Aljaloud

doi:10.3390/sports6030060

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and behavior of university athletes in Saudi Arabia regarding energy drinks (EDs) and sports drinks (SDs). In addition, the microbiological quality of available local drinks was also assessed. The presence of total bacterial coliform count, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus on these drinks was also determined. Of the 120 university athletes surveyed, 69 were currently using SDs, and 51 were using EDs. The study consisted of a 10-question survey assessing the athletes’ sociodemographic characteristics, personal habits, and SD- and ED-related knowledge and habits. With regard to the question about the primary reason for using EDs, n = 26 respondents (50.98%) reported that providing energy (speed, strength, and power) was the main reason for consuming these beverages. Conversely, n = 25 respondents (36.23%) believed that recovery from injury or illnesses was the main reason for the consumption of SDs. A majority of university athletes (n = 43, 62.32%) who used SDs believed that SDs were safe to use, while n = 22 respondents (43.14%) were unaware of any adverse health effects associated with the consumption of EDs. Of the total of 26 SDs and EDs tested, microbial contamination was present in only two products. Microbial levels and the total bacterial count for most of the samples were very low (<1 log CFU/mL). However, some drinks had a slightly higher microbial level, which could be harmful or cause spoilage with improper storage. Thus, our findings suggest that improvements in microbial quality are needed for these beverages.

Highlights

The consumption of sports drinks (SDs) and energy drinks (EDs) has become a popular practice worldwide, especially among athletes
For the second question relating to the frequency of consumption of SDs, the results showed a high percentage of university athletes used SDs daily (n = 32; 46.38%), followed by those who consumed SDs weekly (n = 20; 28.99%), monthly (n = 1; 17.25%), and rarely (n = 5; 7.25%)
For questions concerning the main reason for using EDs and SDs, the results showed that college athletes use these products for different reasons

Summary

Introduction

The consumption of sports drinks (SDs) and energy drinks (EDs) has become a popular practice worldwide, especially among athletes. SDs and EDs are being marketed to athletes and over consumption of these drinks could potentially lead to negative health consequences [1]. SDs and EDs are significantly different products, and the terms should not be used interchangeably. SDs are flavored beverages that usually contain carbohydrates, minerals, and electrolytes and sometimes vitamins or other nutrients while EDs drinks typically contain stimulants, such as caffeine with varying amounts of carbohydrate, protein, amino acids, vitamins, sodium, and other minerals [2]. These drinks represent a large and growing beverage industry.

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