Texans strength and conditioning coach Dan Riley has compiled a ...

Clark states, “A diet with 1500 calories a day from appropriate foods can satisfy the
RDA in most categories.” She adds, “Athletes who take in 2,000 to 4,000 calories
daily increase their chances greatly of getting the proper nutrient amounts. They are
also getting things in food, like fiber and other health protective compounds, that
supplements don’t provide.”
Do not be duped into using any supplement or drug not prescribed by a Registered
Dietitian or our Texans Medical Staff. You may unknowingly consume a product
containing a substance banned by the league. The league drug policy is well
documented.
The NFL policy on steroids and the use of supplements is clear. The policy warns
players; “You and you alone are responsible for what goes into your body.”
Supplements are not monitored or regulated by the FDA. You have no way of
knowing if the product:
Contains the ingredients listed on the label.
Contains prohibited substances.
Can actually do what the manufacturer claims the product can do.
Can be harmful to your health and/or performance, or have lingering long-term
effects.
The Players Union states, “If you take these products you do so AT YOUR OWN
RISK!” The risk is a four game suspension without pay. You are ultimately
responsible should you test positive for any banned substance, regardless of your
intent or how it ended up in your body. Do not risk your health or good standing in
the league by consuming a product not recommended by a Registered Dietitian.
Testimony
Beware of testimony from another athlete or an “expert.” Testimony is an opinion
regarding the effect a product has on the individual. It is not based on facts,
research, or scientific study. Research often demonstrates that the placebo effect is
the cause of these opinions, not an actual change in the physical makeup or
performance of the athlete.
The strength of the placebo effect has been demonstrated many times. In one
particular study a group of people were given a sedative but were told it was a
stimulant. When their bodily functions were measured they responded as if they had
taken a stimulant.
Before taking a product athletes often listen to and believe the testimony of another
athlete or the sales pitch of a salesperson. Regardless of how ineffective a product is,
the athlete already has a preconceived opinion. If a product sounds too good to be
true…it probably is.
While with the Redskins we had a high profile athlete endorse a supplement in a
muscle magazine. Some of our players posted the advertisement up on the bulletin
board and poked fun at this particular player.