Use of Naturally Sourced Ergogenic Products and their Effects on Athletes and Physically Active Individuals: A Scoping Review Protocol

Abstract

Abstract The global rise in sports participation has sparked a significant interest in ergogenic products, particularly those naturally sourced ergogenic products, due to their potential benefits in enhancing athletic performance and recovery. Despite the growing use of these products, challenges exist in standardization, dosage, and evidence-based recommendations. This scoping review aims to address these issues by systematically examining the use of naturally sourced ergogenic products and their effects on athletes and physically active individuals. The review follows Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, incorporating stages of identifying research questions, relevant studies, study selection, charting information, summarizing results, and consulting stakeholders. Article search will be done on PubMed, SCOPUS, WOS, Sport Discuss, and CNKI. Athlete, exercise, sport and ergogenic aid are the keywords to be used. The review will include experimental and cross-sectional studies focusing on active individuals and athletes. Studies involving ordinary people, older adults, patients, and animals will be excluded. The literature will be analyzed to provide an overview of the general characteristics of these studies, focusing on sources and types, timing, dosage, and effects of naturally sourced ergogenic products. This scoping review will systematically synthesize knowledge regarding the sources, types, timing, and dosing of the naturally sourced ergogenic products consumed by athletes and physically active individuals. The review will also report any side effects and suggest the direction of future studies related to this area. This protocol is registered on OSF osf.io/jp3nm.