Análise comparativa das diretrizes nutricionais esportivas sobre suplementação para otimização da performance esportiva

Abstract

The use of nutritional ergogenic aids has increased significantly among athletes and physically active individuals due to the growing interest in improving sports performance and recovery. In this context, supplements such as creatine, caffeine, beta-alanine, nitrate, glycerol and sodium bicarbonate have gained attention in the scientific literature because of their potential ergogenic effects. The aim of this study was to critically analyze the scientific evidence regarding the efficacy, mechanisms of action, supplementation protocols and safety of these compounds in sports performance optimization. This study consists of a narrative literature review conducted through searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and SciELO databases, complemented by official scientific position statements. The findings indicate that creatine, caffeine, beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate present the strongest evidence for performance enhancement in different sports contexts, whereas nitrate and glycerol show promising but less conclusive results. It is concluded that ergogenic aids should be used according to updated scientific evidence and individualized recommendations considering the athlete's characteristics, sport modality and training goals.