Food First, But Not Always: A Framework for Evidence-Based Dietary Supplementation in Sport

Sports nutrition has traditionally been guided by the “food first” paradigm, which prioritizes the consumption of whole foods and beverages to meet athletes’ nutritional requirements. While this principle remains a cornerstone of best practice, its practical application is often challenged by real-world conditions such as high training loads, time constraints, restricted dietary choices, and specific physiological or clinical needs.Emerging evidence suggests that a rigid adherence to a food-only approach may not always be optimal. In certain scenarios, such as correcting nutrient deficiencies, achieving ergogenic doses, supporting immune function, or facilitating nutrient intake around exercise, dietary supplements may provide a scientifically justified and practical solution. However, the widespread use of supplements among athletes, often ranging from 40% to 100% depending on the population, highlights a persistent mismatch between evidence-based recommendations and real-world practices.At the same time, concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and legality remain central. Adverse health effects, contamination with prohibited substances, and the risk of inadvertent doping continue to represent significant challenges in sports nutrition practice.Therefore, this Research Topic aims to redefine the “food first” paradigm within a contemporary evidence-based framework, emphasizing a more nuanced approach: food first, but not always. The Special Issue seeks to explore when, why, and how dietary supplementation is justified, focusing on the integration of scientific evidence, practical constraints, individualization, and risk minimization strategies.We welcome contributions that critically evaluate the role of dietary supplements in enhancing athlete performance, recovery, health, and decision-making processes, while also addressing ethical, regulatory, and behavioral dimensions. Topic editors: Antonio Jesús Sanchez-Oliver, José Antonio Gonzalez-Jurado Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83808/food-first-but-not-always-a-framework-for-evidence-based-dietary-supplementation-in-sport