ABSTRACT

Common supplements such as whey protein, caffeine, steroids, synthetic erythropoietin, and supplements commonly called pre-workouts have major effects on how the body performs and recovers during and after exercise. Additives and supplements are often used by athletes in order to perform a higher intensity workout, to increase muscle mass growth, or to gain an edge over competitors. While there are many legal options that can aid athlete’s growth and performance, there are also illegal and potentially harmful ways athletes look to gain an edge such as steroids and synthetic blood doping. Blood doping refers to the either a naturally or synthetically induced increase in the oxygen carrying capacity of blood, which athletes seek out when competing at higher altitudes where their respiration and muscles are greatly hindered by the increased altitude. The safer idea of training low and living high is a natural form of blood doping, in contrast to the use of synthetic erythropoietin, which can be harmful to the body and is not regulated. By exploring how supplements and additives are processed by the body when exercising, individuals can choose safe options to perform at a higher level.