Analysis of Nutritional Supplements Use in Turkish Elite Skiers

Background Winter sports athletes are challenged with increased energy expenditure, glycogen utilization, and fluid loss due to cold environmental conditions. Nutritional supplements (NS) may provide improved health or performance, more effective training, and a direct performance advantage for winter sports athletes like skiers. Aims This study evaluates NS consumption in Turkish elite skiers of different competition fields (Alpine skiing vs. Cross-country skiing) and levels (national vs. international) according to Australian Sports Institute (AIS) criteria. Methods Thirty-nine Turkish elite skiers (Alpine, n = 27 and Cross-country, n = 12) completed an NS consumption-related specific questionnaire, which included parts of personal characteristics, sports/ training, and consumption patterns of NS. Results Although 74.4% had previously used NS, only 28.2% consumed them during the study season. No significant differences were found in NS use between skiing disciplines (p = 0.709) or competition levels (p = 0.342). The most common reasons for NS use were health maintenance (28.2%) and performance enhancement (25.6%). Popular NS included vitamin C (23.1%), vitamin D (15.4%), and green tea (10.3%), with pharmacies (28.2%) and the Internet (15.4%) being the main purchasing sources. Physicians (23.1%) and dietitians (15.4%) were the primary advisors, although no significant differences were observed between groups regarding supplement use. Conclusion This study highlights that NS consumption among Turkish elite skiers is lower than in other endurance sports and is not significantly influenced by competition type or level. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced education on evidence-based supplementation strategies tailored to the unique demands of winter sports.