As an athlete, I am always looking for an edge over the competition. With the advancements made in sports medicine, there are many options to get that "edge". Protein supplements, creatine, androstenedione, anabolic steroids; many athletes, including myself, turn to one or more of these products for that edge. If an athlete is using these products, is it really the athlete performing, or is it the supplement? Through this paper, I will research the effects (positive and negative) of using these products, as well as determining whether or not each product should be allowed in organized competition.
             Protein supplements are used by most athletes in the professional and collegiate level of sports, and by many athletes in the high school level. I take protein myself. Protein works by supplying more of the materials needed by your body to build and rebuild muscle. By increasing the amount of protein intake, you can decrease recovery time after a work-out. Protein also improves the results of recovery. It can make the muscles rebuild bigger and stronger than lifting alone. (J. Kawate 2002)
             Research has shown that protein supplements have little or no negative side effects. Protein is naturally found in many foods, therefore, supplements don't affect the body any different than natural protein. It is possible to get the same affects by increasing the amount of protein rich foods in your diet. (J. Kawate 2002) Babe Ruth even experimented with this idea by eating excessive amounts of beef before and after games and practices.
             Many professional athletes use proteins often. The increased strength allows them to perform at higher levels. Home-run giants like Jason Giambi, Sammy Sosa, Mike Piazza, Carlos Delgado, Mark McGuire, and Barry Bonds are just a few users. (Sports Illustrated 2002)
             Personally, I think protein supplements should remain allowable in sports. My main reason is that a supplement is...