The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates as adolescents the age group that
comprises between 10 and 19 years and is divided into two phases. The first phase is
determined from 10 to 14 years of age and is characterized by the onset of pubertal changes;
the second phase is defined as 15 to 19 years of age, and is characterized by the end of the
morphological growth and development phase. The self-image of adolescents is directly
associated not only with self-esteem but also with social insertion in their groups and, thus,
stimulated by this massive propaganda, use several so-called ergogenic substances with the
intention of rapid aesthetic and visual changes, without worrying about the effects harmful or
legality of them (BARROS, 2014). This study aims to evaluate the occurrence of the use of
nutritional supplements in high school students. A descriptive cross-sectional study was
carried out, with students from a public school in the city of Belém-Pa, aged 15 to 17 years, of
both sexes, who affirmed using nutritional supplements, a semi-structured questionnaire was
applied. Most of the sample consisted of male students. All students interviewed confirmed
attending Physical Education classes at the school. And besides these classes, they practiced
other physical exercises. Of the 10 products cited, the use of BCAA, Whey protein, and
Creatine prevailed. Regarding the indication for the use of nutritional supplements, the
indication for nutritionist prevailed. Regarding the motivation to use supplements, most
answered that the health factor was paramount. The goal in using supplements for most is
gaining muscle mass. Regarding the criteria used to purchase the products, the most important
factor was price. Although most of the participants in this study have the indication and
monitoring of the use of supplements by qualified professionals, this may not be the reality of
many users of these products. Therefore, it is essential the need for actions that allow these
people access to these professionals, enabling the promotion of health. It is also important to
highlight the need for more studies related to the subject, to add more information on the
subject.
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