Exploring the role of dietary supplements and sports foods in motivation and burnout among marathon runners: A mixed methods study

Introduction: Marathon runners often use dietary supplements and sports foods to enhance performance and recovery. This study explores their effects not only on physical performance but also on psychological factors such as motivation and burnout. Methods: A mixed methods design was used. Quantitatively, 84 adult marathon runners completed surveys on demographics, supplement and sports food use, motivation (Sport Motivation Scale-6), and burnout (Athlete Burnout Questionnaire). Multiple regression analyses assessed predictors of motivation and burnout. Qualitatively, in-depth interviews with selected runners examined the physiological and psychological impacts of these products on motivation and burnout. Results: Sixty-three percent used sports foods and 76% used dietary supplements. Sports foods use (B = 3.665; β = 0.407; p = 0.001) and the number of marathons in the past two years (B = –0.216; β = –0.257; p = 0.038) significantly predicted motivation (R² = 0.189). No significant predictors emerged for burnout (p > 0.05). Qualitative findings identified two main themes: physiological benefits (weight management, endurance improvement, recovery acceleration, injury prevention) and psychological benefits (self-confidence support, competitiveness, ignition). Conclusion: Sports foods positively influence motivation among marathon runners, supporting both physical and mental readiness. However, these factors did not explain burnout levels, indicating a need for further research on burnout determinants.