Divulging the hidden risks of trace and heavy elements in sports nutritional supplements; a comprehensive study targeted with health risk evaluation

Abstract

Background The sports dietary supplements market is growing globally, with a typical 36–85% of athletes consuming these products. Various types of products are being marketed under different classes. However, as nutritional supplements, they don’t require regulatory approval in most developing countries as well as some western communities before releasing them into the market. Objective This study emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing sports dietary supplements, as they can significantly influence the nutritional status and health of humans. Methods The study investigates 18 essential (Cr, Cu, Mn, Fe, Zn, Co, Ca, K, Mg and Na) and other toxic (As, Al, Ba, B, Cd, Ni, Pb and Si) metal contents, in 23 sports supplements marketed in Oman for the first time. ICP-OES was utilized, preceded by a microwave digestion technique. The method was validated within linear ranges of 0.03–15.00 and 10.00–250.00 ppm for micro- and macro-elements. Risk assessments were performed using the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI). Results Al, Ba, Cu, Fe, and Ni were the most prevalent non-labeled contaminants detected. Some labeled elements were found missing in some samples. Cd and Co weren’t detected, however, As and Pb recorded 13.0% prevalence among samples. Although B was only labeled in one sample, it was detected in 69.57% of the studied products, with an average THQ of 0.24. Moreover, several samples had HI ≥ 1. The results underscore the unrealized risks associated with their consumption and labeling discrepancies. The findings also highlight the need for regulatory oversight in the supplement market to promote safe consumption and informed dietary choices.