Supplements and isotonic drinks are one of major elements of athletes' diets, while energy drinks are commonly used by nearly entire population. The use of animal proteins and plant-origin substances in these products suggests that they may contain, among others, fluorine compounds. As most supplements are ingested as aqueous solutions, they may constitute a source of easily absorbable fluoride. This potential exposure may be important in balancing the diet and predicting potential adverse effects. As manufacturers fail to provide accurate information regarding the composition of their products, it is very hard to estimate the exposure of professional athletes, individuals engaged in sports and other consumers of supplements, isotonic drinks and energy drinks to fluoride.

The aim of this study was to determine the role of supplements, isotonic drinks and energy drinks as potential sources of exposure to dietary fluorine compounds by means of determination of fluoride levels in products of this type available on Polish market.

The study was conducted using the most popular protein and creatine supplements, isotonic drinks and energy drinks available on Polish market. Measurements of fluoride concentrations in individual samples were carried out using an Orion (USA) fluoride ion-selective electrode. Statistical analysis of the results was based on non-parametric tests (Friedman ANOVA test and Mann-Whitney U test). Differences were considered statistically significant for p < 0.05. The conducted study was supplemented by the results of a survey conducted among consumers of supplements and drinks and regarding, among others, the type, frequency and quantities of the use of these products.

The highest fluoride levels were detected in creatine products, while the lowest levels were found in energy drinks. Fluoride concentrations in creatine supplements were higher, in a statistically significant manner, than these in protein supplements (p < 0.05), energy drinks (p < 0.05) and isotonic drinks (p < 0,02). A statistically significant difference in fluoride levels was observed between protein supplements and energy drinks (p < 0.02). No significant differences were identified between fluoride levels in protein supplements and isotonic drinks, as well as in energy drinks and isotonic drinks.

Fluoride is present in all supplements, isotonic drinks and energy drinks. The highest levels of fluoride are contained in creatine supplements, which are also the most frequently used supplements in this group of products. Considering the frequency and long-term use of supplements, individuals extensively engaged in sports should keep in mind their potential exposure to fluorine compounds also from these sources. The physical exercise-related burden to bones, joints and ligaments may be intensified due to incorporation of fluoride to hydroxyapatite structures, leading to increased risk of injuries and diseases of the bone-articular system.  

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