In a new statement published on British Powerlifting’s website, the International Powerlifting Federation is stating in no uncertain terms: it’s your fault if the supplements you’re taking have banned substances.
The take-home message of the three-page long statement is that some supplements aren’t always as beneficial and harmless as they might seem.
“First, there continues to be significant health risks associated with nutritional supplement use,” it reads. “And second, adverse analytical findings and anti-doping rule violations continue occurring as a result of their use.”
It even goes so far as to say that most supplements pose an unacceptable risk for athletes. The IPF points out that many countries don’t regulate supplements and they can be contaminated with prohibited substances, particularly “supplements which advertise ‘muscle building’ or ‘fat burning’ capabilities.”
Failed drug tests are always the responsibility of the athlete, not the supplement company, so powerlifters are advised to do whatever they can to find proof that supplements contain what they claim they do, including making direct inquiries to the manufacturer, getting written guarantees of product purity, and finding out if production facilities contain any banned substances anywhere, since accidental contamination is possible.
For a better idea of the letter’s tone, take a look at the following quotes:
Never forget… finger pointing will not help you. (…)
Would it not simply be easier and healthier for every Athlete to eat well and to follow a nutritious and balanced diet?
Should you not to everything you can to avoid a possible anti-doping rule violation and then a sanction and a fine?
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED, THE RISK IS ONLY YOURS TO TAKE.
There’s not much left to misinterpretation here, but it sounds like this probably won’t be the last time the IPF releases a letter like this. Try to find GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)-certified facilities from reputable distributors, and most importantly remember that most nutrients can be found in whole food sources.
Featured image via @theipf on Instagram.
