“These supplements are rich in protein and the need for protein differs from person to person. Factors like age, occupation, body type and weight play an important role,” says Dr V Malathi, Head of the Department of Nutrition, Manipal Hospital.
“The medical history of a person, too, is very crucial before one consumes these supplements,” she warned.
Fitness experts who train sportsmen, however, say gym instructors prescribing supplements is quite common. “There are two types of supplements - protein and general. Protein supplements are whey or creatine and the general ones are that claim to make you taller or stronger in weeks,” explains Deckline Leitao, performance enhancer at the Prakash Padukone Academy.
He says both can be harmful if taken without proper medical consultation.
“Protein supplements are effective input if you have the necessary amount of output, too. For a sportsperson or a person doing rigorous physical exercises, these supplements will be effective. But, if you are a youngster or a working professional, they are not helpful.
Most gym instructors are unqualified and don’t really understand how the body works.
They prescribe supplements to everybody, especially teenagers who want to quickly have a toned body.”
Dietitians warn people not to be carried away by the ‘magic’ formulas suggested by quack instructors. “Since supplements are easily available, not many consider going to a nutritionist or a dietitian. But you should always get a medical opinion, or consult a doctor. High intake of protein does not cause harms
like cholesterol increase, but it can cause hypoproteinemia or hyperuricemia which can later lead to grave problems,” says Dr Malathi.
When contacted, the Drugs Control Authority said there were no regulations for supplements. “We don’t have any rules or guidelines in place for these supplements,” said State Drug Controller Jaga Shetty.
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