Evaluating Ergogenic Supplements
The definition of an ergogenic supplement is a substance that improves the body’s work capacity. For Martial Artists, this includes supplements that are touted to increase stamina, make you stronger, faster, bigger, etc. There are many such products currently on the market, and athletes are prime targets for their marketing efforts as we are always looking for ways to improve athletic performance.
So how do you evaluate such products and the claims that they make? According to the National Council Against Health Fraud, the following are a number of the “deceptive tactics” used in marketing ergogenic aids. Beware of each of these tactics when evaluating any ergogenic supplement you might be considering.
- Taking published research out of context Based on my experience evaluating all kinds of “holistic medicine” products, this is the most predominant technique used, even by reputable companies. Companies take valid research and make an extrapolation of the data or reach conclusions that aren’t supported by the research. Worse yet, manufacturers often make a correlation that the researchers have specifically stated should not be made. The only way to protect yourself against this type of deception is to look at the original research yourself (read the research paper that the company is referencing).
- Claiming products are “university tested” In reality, this phrase is meaningless! It does not mean, as implied, that scientists researched the product in a university laboratory. Rather, it could simply mean that the manufacturer surveyed college students.
- Claiming that research is underway If research is underway, why isn’t it done yet? And what does the “preliminary research” actually demonstrate? There is really no way to prove or disprove this claim…and it, too, is meaningless.
- Using testimonials Unless you know the people giving the testimonials and unless you’re sure they have legitimate credentials, their opinions about the product don’t necessarily correspond to the scientific facts.
- Patenting products Obtaining a patent doesn’t have any bearing on whether a product works as the advertising says it does. It doesn’t even mean that the product is safe.
- Engaging in mass media publicity Just because you see a product advertised everywhere doesn’t mean that the product works or is safe. It simply means that the company has put a lot of money into advertising.
As a general rule, the way to improve your body’s work capacity is to nourish it well and train it well. Martial Artists know that eating healthfully and exercising regularly are the best ways to make the body strong.
