Two From Humana

You’d think obtaining accurate information about sports nutrition would be simple, given the plethora of Internet sites that regularly discuss the topic. Unfortunately, I’ve found that most of the “information” online is based on anecdotal evidence or how any particular supplement is viewed by an individual—or thinly disguised commercial hyperbole. Many Internet forums are populated by company shills who claim unbelievable gains made after using certain supplements.
A major source of information for me over the years has been textbooks related to nutrition. Most are scientifically based and are not commercial in any way. Problem is, those texts are often poorly written or assume that readers have an academic background in biochemistry and chemistry.

More recent texts seem to have overcome these problems. Two perfect examples are Nutritional Supplements in Sports and Exercise and Essentials of Sports Nutrition Supplements, both recently published by Humana Press. They contain completely accurate and easily understood information and do not require you to have completed a college science curriculum.

Essentials of Sports Nutrition Supplements is the official textbook of the International Society of Sports Nutrition and is a study resource for obtaining a credential with the organization. Some of the chapters related to physiology tend to veer into technical language, but the meat and potatoes of the book—discussions of protein, fat, carbs and various supplements—are based on the latest published research, devoid of commercial overtones and easy to understand.

Nutritional Supplements in Sports and Exercise begins by discussing legal and psychological aspects of sports supplements, followed by chapters on the nutrient and hydration needs of athletes and those engaged in regular exercise. Part three holds special interest if you’re engaged in bodybuilding. You’ll find chapters on how muscle-mass and weight-gain supplements work, which weight-loss supplements are effective and which don’t work as advertised and effective nutrient combinations that help build muscle and strength without side effects. Other chapters discuss recovery supplements and meal timing. All the chapters are written in an easily understood style that requires no science background or technical expertise.

The books are particularly useful for personal trainers, coaches and anyone who wants to know the scientific details related to sports nutrition but doesn’t want to be assaulted by the commercial nonsense rampant in most other places.