ADAK urges athletes to embrace natural nutrition and avoid supplements
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 05.07.24. | 20:36
The unregulated nature of the supplement industry makes it difficult to guarantee safety
The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has once again cautioned athletes that they are responsible for what they consume.
In an anti-doping workshop organized in conjunction with the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) in Naivasha, the agency called on athletes to prioritize clean competition and achieve success naturally.
Part of prioritizing clean sports is reducing the over-reliance on supplements, which, according to ADAK, may contain doping agents that can attract serious repercussions if detected.
ADAK's senior educator Kennedy Mwai highlighted the abundance of natural, healthy foods readily available in Kenya and throughout Africa.
Mwai pointed out that these foods, when incorporated into a well-planned diet, can provide all the necessary nutrients for peak athletic performance.
By embracing this natural bounty, athletes can not only achieve their goals but also safeguard their health and careers, avoiding the potential pitfalls of unregulated supplements.
“We are blessed as Africa and a continent because we grow organic foods. I urge athletes to consume these natural foods. For instance, instead of using protein supplements, I would advise athletes to eat beans and eggs. We have fruits and vegetables which are also crucial sources of vitamins. We are not short of alternatives. Eat natural and you will not be at risk,” Mwai urged.
Mwai further highlighted the risk posed by unregulated supplements in the Kenyan market, warning that there is a lack of clear policy around these products. No supplement in the market is ‘ADAK-certified.’
"Athletes might unknowingly consume supplements laced with banned substances, jeopardizing their careers. We have not approved any supplement in the market yet,” he added.
The unregulated nature of the supplement industry makes it difficult to guarantee safety. Mwai noted that ADAK does not approve supplements due to the possibilities of infiltration and counterfeiting by unscrupulous dealers.
"Contamination is a real possibility. If we endorse a supplement, there is a high chance it could be infiltrated. In developed countries, supplements have been tested, approved, and trusted because of proper systems. In Kenya, we have no control, regulation, or testing. The risk of counterfeits is also high,” he explained.
However, Mwai emphasized that with proper training and a balanced diet, top performance can be achieved naturally.
Kenya boasts a rich tradition of distance running success stories built on dedication and natural talent. ADAK proposes a return to these roots.
"Kenyan athletes have phenomenal ability. There's no shame in relying on a natural approach that prioritizes health and clean competition,” he concluded.
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