Nutrition in Combat Sports

62 F. Halabchi
offered no further advantage. However, recent studies show that ARs can be
up-regulated by exposure to AAS [37] and that AR number is increased by resistance
training [38] . This suggests a possible mechanism by which supraphysiologic doses
of AAS combined with exercise might complement each other [32] .
It has also been suggested that AASs exert several complementary anabolic
actions, including a psychoactive effect on the brain, and stimulation of the growth
hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) [32] .
4.5.2 Misuse in Sports
In general, the efficacy of AS is commonly misunderstood and overstated in the athletes.
Many beliefs are anecdotal at best, and not supported by the medical literature [39] .
Results of clinical trials evaluating anabolic steroids are difficult to evaluate
because of methodological and dosing differences. Some studies have shown minimal
effects on body composition and strength, whereas others have shown that
supraphysiologic doses can lead to an increase in fat-free mass and muscle size and
strength in humans [27] .
In conclusion, there is only limited evidence to support the efficacy of these
drugs in athletic performance [39] . Researchers also found that the positive effects
reverted slowly toward normal when the drug misuse was stopped [27] .
4.5.3 Side Effects
Studying the side effects and health risks of anabolic steroid use in athletes is difficult.
Because the drugs are illegal, there is a paucity of well-controlled studies
available for review. Nevertheless, a number of studies have investigated the health
consequences associated with these drugs and have provided strong evidence of
their risks (Table 4.2 ) [27] .
4.6 Stimulants
Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants were originally used by athletes to
improve performance on the day of competition. They are supposed to have a performance-enhancing
effect in explosive power activities (such as combat sports)
and endurance events, since the capacity to exercise strenuously is increased and
sensitivity to pain is reduced. However, limited scientific evidence is available to
prove that stimulants do improve performance [26] . There was evidence that these
drugs might be linked with sudden collapse or death. The class of stimulants
includes psychomotor stimulants, sympathomimetics, and miscellaneous CNS
stimulants (e.g., amphetamines, ephedrines, and cocaine, respectively). In this part,
we will discuss regarding amphetamine, as a prototype of stimulants.