CISSN Topic Guide
Supplements
Supplement questions ask for evidence-aware use, safety, banned-substance caution, and whether food-first nutrition already meets the need.
What the exam tends to ask
Supplements are not substitutes for a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
Creatine, carbohydrate/protein products, amino acids, and immune-support supplements appear in application scenarios.
Athletes should verify sport-governing-body restrictions before use.
Must-know concepts
Food-first baseline
The supplement decision starts after overall energy, macro, micronutrient, and hydration patterns are evaluated.
Risk review
Quality, legality, contamination, contraindications, and organization rules matter as much as potential benefit.
Evidence match
A supplement should match the athlete's event, limiting factor, and measurable outcome.
Practice prompts
- 01Decide whether a supplement question is really asking about deficiency, convenience, or ergogenic effect.
- 02Explain why NCAA or sport-body restrictions should be checked before recommending a product.