How Elite Athletes Use Supplements to Edge Out Competition and Stay Clean
Athletes rely on a range of legal supplements—especially protein, creatine and vitamin D—to fine-tune performance, while navigating strict anti-doping rules.
Creatine first entered the spotlight when British athletes used it at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and by the next Games an estimated 80% of competitors were taking it. Today, protein powders, creatine and vitamin D top the supplement lists of elite performers, who view them as marginal gains that complement an already immaculate diet. Researchers note that while these products can boost strength, energy and recovery, they also carry anti-doping hazards; studies show about one in ten supplements contain prohibited substances, accounting for 8% of violations from 2005 to 2022.
Certification programs such as Informed Sport help, but athletes like rower Heidi Long still keep detailed spreadsheets of batch numbers and expiry dates. The global supplement market, valued at $209.5 bn in 2025, is expected to reach $431.7 bn by 2033, underscoring the commercial boom alongside ongoing safety concerns. Nutritionists also advocate a “food-first” approach, recommending whole-food alternatives such as turmeric, pickle juice and teff grain alongside or instead of synthetic aids.
Why it matters
Understanding supplement use helps athletes avoid doping violations and informs consumers about safety and cost issues.
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