As temperatures moderate and outdoor activities become more feasible, residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are resuming their sports routines, participating in competitions, and increasing training intensity. For many, returning to physical activity also means reassessing diet and recovery regimens. Protein powders, multivitamins, magnesium, and electrolyte supplements are increasingly found in gym bags, as some rely on them to boost endurance, build muscle mass, and replenish nutrients after workouts.
However, doctors strongly urge caution, stating that an active lifestyle alone is not grounds for starting supplementation. Without knowing about actual nutrient deficiencies, adding products to the daily diet can do more harm than good.
Medical professionals note that some residents choose supplements based on recommendations from gyms, friends' advice, or social media trends, rather than seeking medical consultation to determine their body's needs.
Dr. Mohammed Elgezouli, a family medicine specialist at Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Hospital in Al Bateen, Sharjah, reported that it has become common for patients to come in taking multiple products simultaneously. He noted: 'Many patients come in taking several products at once, such as protein powder, multivitamins, magnesium, and electrolytes, usually based on advice from friends, trainers, or social media, rather than after a blood test.'
He added that most people adhering to a balanced diet do not require many of these products, although Vitamin D is a significant point in the UAE. 'Vitamin D is the main exception in the UAE, but even that should be confirmed by testing.'
Doctors emphasize that one of the most common misconceptions among fitness enthusiasts is the belief that supplements labeled as natural or safe cannot cause harm. Dr. Elgezouli warned that excessive intake of certain nutrients can have serious consequences, especially if the products are taken long-term without medical supervision.
'High doses of Vitamin D over a long period can increase calcium levels and damage the kidneys. Iron, taken without deficiency, can accumulate in organs. Magnesium and potassium can reach dangerous levels in people with undiagnosed kidney problems,' he stated.
He also warned that supplements can interact with prescribed medications, including anticoagulants and thyroid tablets. It has been found that some fitness products sold online contain hidden stimulants or steroids.
Confirming these concerns, Swapna Mary John, a clinical dietitian at the International Modern Hospital in Dubai, noted that the growing popularity of supplements during the fitness season in the UAE does not mean they are necessary for everyone. She said: 'Many people assume that regular exercise means they need extra supplements. However, a balanced diet often provides everything the body needs. Supplements should address specific nutritional needs, not just follow fitness trends.'
John also pointed out potential risks of overuse, including nerve damage from high doses of Vitamin B6 and kidney damage from excess Vitamin D. 'Combining supplements can also lead to unintentional overdose or drug interactions. More is not always better, and unnecessary extra nutrition can sometimes do more harm than good.'
Dr. Mariane Malak Eshak Markos, a family medicine specialist at Burjeel Surgical Center in Al Shaham, advised residents to be particularly cautious in assuming that products advertised as natural are automatically harmless. She stated: 'Overuse of supplements can potentially lead to health complications. For example, too much Vitamin D can lead to elevated calcium levels, while unnecessary iron supplementation can cause digestive issues and, in some cases, organ damage.'
She added that taking multiple products together can increase the risk of exceeding recommended daily allowances or interacting with prescribed medications. 'Therefore, self-prescribing supplements for a long time is generally not recommended.'
Instead of following fitness trends or copying someone else's supplement regimen, doctors recommend assessing individual nutritional needs before introducing additional products. Dr. Elgezouli advised residents to consult a doctor and undergo appropriate tests to establish any deficiencies. 'Basic tests include a complete blood count, iron stores, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, kidney function, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as thyroid tests if symptoms are present.'
He also added that people over 40 or those with cardiovascular risk factors should undergo a cardiology check-up before starting intense training. The results will help doctors determine the need for supplements, considering the person's diet, age, medical history, medications, and training intensity.
John noted that the assessment should also consider dietary habits, level of physical activity, and any symptoms before supplements are recommended. 'Protein needs can often be met through food, while electrolytes are usually more beneficial during prolonged exercise with heavy sweating.'
For residents engaging in outdoor sports, especially in the warmer months of the UAE, hydration remains important. However, electrolyte products should not automatically become part of everyone's daily diet. Dr. Markos also stressed that supplement recommendations must be based on an individual's nutritional gaps, not on general advice circulating online or in fitness communities. 'Before starting supplements, people should consider a medical evaluation that takes into account their dietary habits, training routine, age, existing conditions, and current medications.'
Depending on the results, medical staff may recommend tests such as Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and iron levels. 'The goal is to identify actual deficiencies or nutritional gaps, not to take supplements by trial and error. A personalized approach is always safer and more effective than following general guidelines,' Markos concluded.
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