Abstract
BackgroundFollowing DIY (do it yourself) diets as well as consuming supplements exceeding by far the recommended daily intake levels, is common among athletes; these dietary habits often lead to an overconsumption of some macro and/or micronutrients, exposing athletes to potential health risks.The aim of this study is to document the development of possible adverse effects in a 33 year-old amateur bodybuilder who consumed for 16 years a DIY high protein diet associated to nutrient supplementation. Body composition, biochemical measures and anamnestic findings were evaluated.We present this case to put on alert about the possible risks of such behavior repeated over time, focusing on the adverse gastrointestinal effects. We discuss the energy and nutrient composition of his DIY diet as well as the use of supplements.ConclusionThis study provides preliminary data of the potential risks of a long-term DIY dietary supplementation and a high protein diet. In this case, permanent abdominal discomfort was evidenced in an amateur body builder with an intake exceeding tolerable upper limit for vitamin A, selenium and zinc, according to our national and updated recommendations.As many amateur athletes usually adopt self-made diets and supplementation, it would be advisable for them to be supervised in order to prevent health risks due to a long-term DIY diet and over-supplementation.
Highlights
Following DIY diets as well as consuming supplements exceeding by far the recommended daily intake levels, is common among athletes; these dietary habits often lead to an overconsumption of some macro and/or micronutrients, exposing athletes to potential health risks
The results showed that the patient usual dietary intake for up to 6 months before was very high in protein and poor in fiber; protein daily intake, mainly from
Exercise leads to an oxidative stress increase and loss of some minerals, there are no evidences justifying the massive intake of vitamin-mineral supplements, especially among amateur athletes [9,22]
Summary
Following DIY (do it yourself) diets as well as consuming supplements exceeding by far the recommended daily intake levels, is common among athletes; these dietary habits often lead to an overconsumption of some macro and/or micronutrients, exposing athletes to potential health risks. Biochemical measures and anamnestic findings were evaluated We present this case to put on alert about the possible risks of such behavior repeated over time, focusing on the adverse gastrointestinal effects. Whether a scheduled supplementation of some and specific macronutrient compounds could enhance muscle adaptation to training [8], no precise reason, even among athletes, seems to justify a massive intake of some nutrients, especially vitamins and minerals, if the dietary regimen provides for a sufficient variety of foods [9]. Many efforts have been performed to identify macro and micronutrient intake ranges of safety
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
