Thinking about using a supplement?
Before using ANY supplement, it is important that you and your support team understand the risks involved. To help you make more informed decisions, we have included key factors for you to consider before using ANY supplement – it is important that you do so for your health, performance and continued participation as a clean athlete. DFSNZ cannot approve any supplement product or its use. It is your responsibility to be aware of what you are taking and whether it contains prohibited substances.
QUESTION 1 / 5
Do you need to use a supplement?
Factors to consider
- Have you received expert advice on your individual nutritional needs?
- Can you get the nutrients you need from food (without using a supplement)?
- Is your activity, rest and work/study balanced for you?
- Does your support team know you are considering supplement use?
QUESTION 2 / 5
Will the supplement do what it says on the label?
Factors to consider
- Have you discussed evidence on the supplement with your support team?
(e.g. your general practitioner or ‘GP’, registered nutritionist, dietitian, sports doctor). - Does the supplement sound 'too good to be true'? Be careful of claims made to sell the product!
QUESTION 3 / 5
Could the supplement harm your health and performance?
Factors to consider
- Is the dose safe for you?
- Have you discussed the possible side effects of supplement use with your support team?
- Have you told your support team about other medications or supplements you are taking? Could the supplement negatively interact with them?
- Get expert advice before using any supplement (e.g. registered nutritionist, dietitian or sports doctor)
QUESTION 4 / 5
Is the supplement from a reliable source?
Factors to consider
- Has the supplement been batch tested for prohibited substances by a well-established third party programme?
- Does the manufacturer have current Good Manufacturing Practice?
- Are ingredients on the label also on the current Prohibited List?
QUESTION 5 / 5
Do you still plan to use the supplement?
Factors to consider
- Does the number on the supplement packaging have a direct match on a batch testing certificate?
- Have you kept a record of the product’s batch number?
- Did you receive exactly what you ordered?
- Is the package sealed? Are you sure it hasn’t been messed with?
- Do you have a plan for reviewing your supplement use?
- Have you considered each of the factors presented in this guide?
DFSNZ cannot approve the use of ANY supplement
Remember, before using ANY supplement, it is important that you and your support team understand the risks involved. Important consideration factors have been presented in this guide to help you make more informed decisions before using ANY supplement – it is important that each of these factors are considered for your health, performance and continued participation as a clean athlete. It is your responsibility to be aware of what you are taking and whether it contains prohibited substances.
If you NEED to use a supplement (e.g. if expert test results have found you lack a nutrient), it is important that you get medical advice.
It is your responsibility to find out if you need a Therapeutic Use Exemption and to carefully consider the source, quality, safety and proven effectiveness of any supplement BEFORE use.
Ok, I understand
Do you need to use a supplement?
Will the supplement do what it says on the label?
Could the supplement harm your health or performance?
Is the supplement from a reliable source?
Do you still plan to use the supplement?
Key reminders 
Make the effort to understand your nutritional needs and try to meet these through food first.
Seek expert advice and tell them you are an athlete who could be tested anytime.
Supplement labels don’t always say exactly what is in a product or how much! Words like ‘herbal’ and ‘natural’ do not necessarily mean it is safe.
Supplements can contain substances that are prohibited in sport - avoid sharing products.
Using incorrect doses, or thinking ‘more is better’, is dangerous for your health.
Supplement safety and effectiveness is rarely proven in athletes under 18, those with medical conditions or who use other substances.
If tested, remember to list all substances you have used on your paperwork.
Athletes use all supplements at their own risk and responsibility.
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