Thermocenic supplements consumption and its side effects on customers of a sports nutrition shop in Fortaleza-CE

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the consumption of thermogenics, indicating how to use them, their purpose, who prescribes them and their possible side effects. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study, of the quantitative nature. Carried out at a sports nutrition store in the city of Fortaleza-CE, through a self- applied questionnaire with personal information, information on physical activities and questions related to the consumption of thermogenics. Results: The study was conducted with 50 practitioners of physical activity, 74% (n=37) were male and 90% (n=45) had incomplete higher education. Among the participants, 90% had some kind of guidance for the use of supplements, being the most cited a nutritionist (48%), a personal trainer (24%) and friends (20%). Regarding the length of use, 84% have been using themogenics for less than a year, and 88% have some specific goal to consume them: 74% for weight loss, 58% for more energy and to reduce fatigue, 38% for performance improvement. As for the side effects of the thermogenics consumed, 50% reported having some sort of knowledge. The most frequently cited are: Insomnia (40%), agitation (38%), sweating (36%) and shaking hands (22%), with an increase in body temperature (22%). Conclusions: The study showed that most of the participants are male, aiming at weight loss, half have some knowledge of the side effects and most said they received professional guidance from a nutritionist. It is clear, therefore, the importance of guidance from a nutritionist to prescribe supplements, regarding the quantities, needs, length of use and appropriate recommendations for consumption, thus assisting the patients in achieving their objectives. The use of supplements is indeed necessary and safe for the physically active.