Sport supplementation in competitive swimmers: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Domínguez R, López-León I, Moreno-Lara J, Rico E
Published in Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Methodology
PRISMA systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 placebo-controlled supplementation studies (422 competitive swimmers, 50-800 m events) graded on the PEDro scale
Key Findings
Creatine supplementation showed a significant ergogenic effect on swimming performance (ES = -0.46; 95% CI -0.75 to -0.17), while evidence for most other supplements was weaker or inconsistent.
Conclusions
Only a small number of supplements, chiefly creatine, have credible endurance/performance support in competitive swimmers.
Limitations
Sport-specific population, few trials per supplement, varied distances and protocols.
Supplements Studied
Creatine supplementation demonstrated ergogenic benefits for competitive swimmers
Outcomes Measured
Creatine showed a significant effect (ES = -0.46; 95% CIs = -0.75 to -0.17
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Academic/non-commercial
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.