Bioactive Substances in Sport and Exercise: Mechanisms, Applications, and Safety Considerations
A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 December 2025 | Viewed by 14
Special Issue Editor
Interests: food supplements; herbal medicine; pain; inflammation; physical activity; sport
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Bioactive substances, including polyphenols, caffeine, creatine, ammino acids and plant-derived compounds, are widely used in sports for their potential to enhance performance, improve recovery, and support athlete health. Although there is proof that several of these substances have ergogenic benefits, like increased attention, less inflammation, and improved endurance, the use of these substances may have negative effects. Emerging issues include the possibility of contamination or mislabeling in supplements, harmful effects associated with excessive dosages, and individual diversity in response. Furthermore, there are frequently few long-term safety statistics available, particularly for elite or aging athlete populations. The purpose of this Special Issue is to examine the dual function of bioactive substances in sports, emphasizing both their potential hazards and their performance-enhancing benefits. We welcome contributions that discuss individual variability, safety profiles, mechanisms of action, and practical applications. The ethical use of bioactive chemicals in sports and exercise environments requires a rigorous, evidence-based approach to optimize benefits, minimize risk, and promote athlete well-being.
Dr. Carmen Mannucci
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- bioactive compounds
- sports nutrition
- exercise performance
- dietary supplements
- ergogenic aids
- adverse effects
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