Evaluation of consumer protein supplements often a academy between the city of São Paulo

Abstract

The gym is a place for physical exercise by individuals with no professional ties to the sport. The gym environment favors different aesthetic standard stereotypes - lean body, low fat or high volume and muscle tone. Protein intake after hypertrophy exercise promotes increased muscle mass. The Brazilian Society of Sports Medicine, based on the findings of supplement and drug abuse in an environment of physical exercise especially in gyms and health clubs, issued guidelines to intervene the actions and to demystify inadequate attitudes of professionals working in the sport industry. This study examined the consumption of protein supplements by gym members located in the western region of Sao Paulo. These members, eighteen years and older, were surveyed through a questionnaire regarding the use, indication, effectiveness and purpose of consumed supplements. The study found that 32% of individuals use protein supplements, mostly men between 30-40 years of age with a higher education, aiming to gain muscle mass and recovery after a workout. The vast majority were satisfied with the results. Also, the majority of respondents used supplements on the recommendation of friends, physical education professionals or on their own initiative. Thus, greater efforts should be focused on nutritional education to explain the importance and priority of food in a diet and supplementation and adequate indication only when it’s necessary.