Sports Medicine

Indirect-estimation meta-analysis finds measurable doping prevalence varying by sport type

A systematic review and meta-analysis of IEM studies (K = 46; meta-analysis k = 30, n = 34) estimated admitted doping prevalence across sport samples. Lifetime prevalence was highest in multi-sport competitive athletes at 22.6%, and lowest in single-sport competitive athletes at 12.7%. Past-year prevalence varied by sample, peaking in single-sport recreational sportspersons at 15.5% and lowest in multi-sport recreationals at 8.7%. Authors note heterogeneity in methods and that secondary re-analyses create novel meta-analytic challenges. 1

Nutritional strategies for football in the heat: hydration, carbs, menthol, creatine

This narrative review prioritizes hydration/electrolyte planning and carbohydrate-protein feeding as foundational for football in hot environments. Menthol may offer reliable perceptual cooling, while creatine appears safe and may support repeated-sprint capacity. Evidence for taurine is limited but promising; BCAAs, antioxidants, nitrates, and caffeine as standalone heat strategies lack consistent football-specific support. Heterogeneous study designs and reliance on non-football models limit direct transfer; integrate nutrition into broader heat-management plans. 2

Short-term taurine+caffeine+phosphatidylserine protocol improved physical and cognitive outcomes in pros

In 81 professional male players randomized to placebo, TC (taurine+caffeine), or TCP (taurine+caffeine+PS) for 10 days, TCP outperformed placebo on several physical and cognitive measures. TCP showed higher locomotor performance and smaller fatigue-related sprint declines (e.g., -18% vs. -34%) compared with placebo. Technical outcomes (passing accuracy, dribbling) and coach-rated tactical scores also favored TCP but included subjective components. Because caffeine doses differed between groups, the independent effect of phosphatidylserine cannot be isolated. 3