Football is a demanding sport that requires peak physical performance. To maintain high energy levels, endurance and quick recovery times, many footballers turn to certified sports supplements. Choosing the right supplements can be a game-changer, but it’s essential to select products that are safe, effective and certified.
Why Informed-Sport Certification Matters
Informed-Sport certification is crucial for athletes because it guarantees that the supplements have been tested for banned substances. This certification ensures that the products are safe and free from contaminants that could lead to positive drug tests.
Using non-certified supplements can pose risks, including the presence of harmful substances and the potential for accidental doping, which can damage a footballer's career and health. An informed sports certified product will always have the following badge on the packaging:
Important Note
Supplements should NEVER replace or come before a balanced whole food diet.
They are intended to complement a healthy eating plan and should be used responsibly. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Supplements may not be suitable for individuals under 18 years old due to varying nutritional needs, a lack of testing and therefore the potential for adverse effects.
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*Young athletes should focus on obtaining nutrients from a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods and use supplements sparingly, at their own risk, and as a last resort for convenience.
At the bottom of the article I have included some meal plans which provide all the nutrition and benefits provided by these supplements, but from whole food sources alone. Youth players and parents of youth players should skip straight to this and the functional foods section.
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Here’s a breakdown of some top-rated brands and their best products, along with their prices on Amazon UK and how they can benefit football performance.
Please note that the links used are affiliate links, meaning that if you click the link and go on to make a purchase we will receive a few pence in return for the recommendation.
1. Optimum Nutrition
Unique Selling Point:
High-quality protein with a wide range of flavors. Optimum Nutrition is a renowned brand in the sports supplement industry, known for its high-quality products that are Informed-Sport certified, ensuring they are tested for banned substances.
Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein (£49.99): Supports muscle recovery and growth with 24 grams of protein per serving. Best Used: Immediately after training or matches to aid in muscle recovery and growth. Shop on Amazon UK
Essential Amino Energy (£16.95): Combines amino acids with natural energy sources to enhance performance and focus. Best Used: Before or during training sessions for an energy and focus boost. Shop on Amazon UK
Creatine Monohydrate (£24.99): Known for improving strength and power, this supplement supports high-intensity performance. Best Used: During strength training phases or pre-season to increase power and muscle strength. Shop on Amazon UK
Gold Standard Pre-Workout (£20.95): Provides energy and focus for intense workouts. Best Used: 30 minutes before training sessions. Shop on Amazon UK
2. Science in Sport (SiS)
Unique Selling Point:
Endurance-focused supplements used by professional athletes. Science in Sport offers a range of Informed-Sport certified products ideal for footballers.
SiS REGO Rapid Recovery (£34.00): A recovery supplement that helps replenish glycogen stores and promotes muscle recovery post-exercise. Best Used: Immediately after matches or intense training sessions to speed up recovery. Shop on Amazon UK
SiS GO Electrolyte (£24.95): Provides fast hydration and energy, ideal for use during intense matches and training sessions. Best Used: Before and during matches to maintain hydration and energy levels. Shop on Amazon UK
SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gel (£8.00): Provides quick energy during intense activity. Best Used: During matches or long training sessions. Shop on Amazon UK
SiS GO Energy + Caffeine Gel (£37.20): Energy gel with added caffeine. Best Used: Before or during matches for an energy boost. Shop on Amazon UK
3. Maximuscle
Unique Selling Point:
Tailored supplements for muscle growth and recovery.
Maximuscle is known for its high-quality, certified supplements tailored for athletes.
Maximuscle Cyclone (£42.98): A combination of protein and creatine to support muscle growth and recovery. Best Used: Post-training to enhance muscle recovery and strength gains. Shop on Amazon UK
Maximuscle Promax Lean (£39.98): A protein shake designed to support lean muscle development and fat loss. Best Used: As a snack or post-workout shake to aid muscle development and fat loss. Shop on Amazon UK
4. Soccer Supplement
Unique Selling Point:
Specifically designed for footballers. Soccer Supplement specialises in products tailored for footballers, all Informed-Sport certified.
Whey90 (£49.95): High-quality whey protein that aids in muscle recovery and growth. Best Used: Post-match or post-training to support muscle recovery and growth. Shop on Amazon UK
Focus90 (£24.95): Caffeine-based supplement to boost concentration and energy levels before a match. Best Used: Before matches for a concentration and energy boost. Shop on Amazon UK
Fuel90 (£22.90): Dual carbohydrate gel for sustained energy. Best Used: During matches or intense training sessions. Shop on Amazon UK
Recover90 (£35.99): All-in-one recovery shake with protein, carbs, and electrolytes. Best Used: Post-match or training for comprehensive recovery. Shop on Amazon UK
5. Huel
Unique Selling Point:
Nutritionally complete, vegan meals and supplements. Huel offers nutritionally complete meals and supplements that are Informed-Sport certified and vegan.
Huel Powder (£45.00): Complete meal replacement with a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, plus essential vitamins and minerals. Best Used: As a convenient meal replacement or supplement to ensure balanced nutrition throughout the day. Shop on Amazon UK
Huel Ready-to-Drink (£29.95): Convenient, balanced meal in a bottle, ideal for on-the-go nutrition. Best Used: As a quick meal option when you're short on time but need balanced nutrition. Shop on Amazon UK
Huel Bars (£25.99): Nutritionally complete snack bars that provide a balanced macro profile. Best Used: As a healthy snack to keep energy levels stable between meals. Shop on Amazon UK
6. Sci-Mx Nutrition
Unique Selling Point:
Scientifically formulated supplements for optimal performance. Sci-Mx Nutrition offers a range of Informed-Sport certified products suitable for footballers.
Ultra Whey Protein (£19.89): Supports muscle recovery and growth with a blend of high-quality whey protein. Best Used: Post-training to enhance muscle recovery and support growth. Shop on Amazon UK
Creatine Monohydrate (£13.45): Enhances strength, power, and performance during high-intensity activities. Best Used: During strength training phases to improve power and performance. Shop on Amazon UK
Additional Supplements and Functional Foods for Performance and Recovery
In addition to traditional sports supplements, there are several other products that can aid in sports performance, recovery, and overall athleticism. Here are some suggestions:
Caffeine
Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can enhance focus, alertness, and physical performance.
ProPlus Caffeine Tablets (£3.89): Provides a quick caffeine boost. Best Used: 30 minutes before training or matches for increased energy and focus. Shop on Amazon UK
Collagen
Collagen supplements support joint health and can aid in the recovery of connective tissues.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (£36.38): Supports joint, skin, and muscle health. Best Used: Daily mixed into beverages or shakes. Shop on Amazon UK
Beetroot Juice
Beetroot juice is known for its high nitrate content, which can improve blood flow and endurance.
Beet It Sport Shot (£19.99): Concentrated beetroot juice for stamina. Best Used: 2-3 hours before matches or intense training. Shop on Amazon UK
Tart Cherry Juice
Tart cherry juice is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation.
CherryActive Concentrate (£12.79): Tart cherry concentrate for recovery. Best Used: Post-training to reduce muscle soreness. Shop on Amazon UK
Turmeric
Turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in recovery and reduce joint pain.
Pukka Herbs Organic Turmeric Herbal Tea (£19.00): Herbal tea with turmeric for inflammation. Best Used: Daily as a soothing beverage to reduce inflammation. Shop on Amazon UK
Glutamine
Glutamine is an amino acid that supports muscle recovery and immune function.
MyProtein L-Glutamine (£10.49): Supports muscle recovery and immune function. Best Used: Post-training to aid in muscle recovery. Shop on Amazon UK
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D, supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.
Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil (£9.01): Provides omega-3, vitamins A and D. Best Used: Daily to support joint health and reduce inflammation. Shop on Amazon UK
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)
CLA is a fatty acid that may help reduce body fat and improve muscle tone.
MyProtein CLA (£9.99): High-quality CLA supplement. Best Used: Daily to aid in fat metabolism. Shop on Amazon UK
Beta-Alanine
Beta-alanine is an amino acid that helps buffer lactic acid, improving endurance and reducing fatigue.
Bulk Powders Beta-Alanine (£9.99): High-quality beta-alanine powder. Best Used: Before training sessions to reduce fatigue. Shop on Amazon UK
Magnesium
Magnesium supports muscle function, energy production, and can help reduce muscle cramps.
BetterYou Magnesium Oil Spray (£8.66): Transdermal magnesium spray. Best Used: Applied to muscles post-training to reduce cramps. Shop on Amazon UK
Glucosamine
Glucosamine supports joint health and can help reduce the risk of joint injuries.
Glucosamine Sulphate Tablets (£9.99): Supports joint health. Best Used: Daily to maintain joint function and reduce the risk of injuries. Shop on Amazon UK
Weekly Meal Plans
Normal Meal Plan
Breakfasts:
Oatmeal with berries, nuts, and a scoop of protein powder
Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole-grain toast
Smoothie with banana, spinach, protein powder, and almond milk
Greek yogurt with granola and honey
Whole-grain pancakes with fresh berries
Scrambled eggs with mushrooms and tomatoes
Avocado toast on whole-grain bread
Lunches:
Grilled chicken breast, quinoa, and mixed vegetables
Turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread, carrot sticks, and hummus
Chicken Caesar salad with a whole-grain roll
Quinoa salad with chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese
Tuna salad wrap with mixed greens
Lentil soup with whole-grain bread
Spinach and feta stuffed chicken breast with quinoa
Dinners:
Baked salmon, sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli
Beef stir-fry with brown rice and mixed vegetables
Grilled pork chops, mashed potatoes, and green beans
Baked cod, roasted Brussels sprouts, and brown rice
Chicken fajitas with bell peppers, onions, and whole-grain tortillas
Grilled steak, baked potato, and steamed asparagus
Shrimp stir-fry with mixed vegetables and brown rice
Snacks:
Greek yogurt, apple slices, protein bar
Cottage cheese with pineapple, mixed nuts
Hard-boiled eggs, protein shake
Apple with peanut butter, protein bar
Smoothie with protein powder, banana, and almond milk
Mixed nuts, Greek yogurt
Cottage cheese with fruit, protein shake
Vitamins/Minerals Possibly Missing:
Vitamin D: May require supplementation with cod liver oil or a vitamin D supplement.
Omega-3 fatty acids: May require supplementation with fish oil.
Vegetarian Meal Plan
Breakfasts:
Oatmeal with almond butter, chia seeds, and banana
Smoothie with spinach, protein powder, and almond milk
Scrambled tofu with spinach and whole-grain toast
Greek yogurt with granola and honey
Whole-grain pancakes with fresh berries
Greek yogurt with mixed berries and honey
Avocado toast on whole-grain bread
Lunches:
Quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and avocado
Chickpea salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese
Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil
Hummus and vegetable wrap with whole-grain tortilla
Spinach and feta quiche with a side salad
Black bean soup with whole-grain bread
Lentil salad with roasted vegetables
Dinners:
Lentil curry with brown rice and mixed vegetables
Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa and black beans
Baked eggplant with tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese
Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and brown rice
Mushroom risotto with a side of steamed vegetables
Grilled portobello mushrooms with quinoa and vegetables
Vegetarian chili with brown rice
Snacks:
Greek yogurt, apple slices, mixed nuts
Cottage cheese with pineapple, protein bar
Hard-boiled eggs, protein shake
Apple with almond butter, protein bar
Smoothie with protein powder, banana, and almond milk
Mixed nuts, protein shake
Cottage cheese with fruit, protein bar
Vitamins/Minerals Possibly Missing:
Vitamin B12: May require supplementation.
Iron: Ensure adequate intake from fortified foods or consider supplementation.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Consider supplementation with a plant-based omega-3 supplement (e.g., algae oil).
Vegan Meal Plan
Breakfasts:
Oatmeal with almond butter, chia seeds, and banana
Smoothie with spinach, vegan protein powder, and almond milk
Scrambled tofu with spinach and whole-grain toast
Almond yogurt with granola and honey
Whole-grain pancakes with fresh berries
Almond yogurt with mixed berries and honey
Avocado toast on whole-grain bread
Lunches:
Quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and avocado
Chickpea salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado
Mixed greens salad with nuts, seeds, and avocado
Hummus and vegetable wrap with whole-grain tortilla
Spinach and chickpea salad with lemon tahini dressing
Black bean soup with whole-grain bread
Lentil salad with roasted vegetables
Dinners:
Lentil curry with brown rice and mixed vegetables
Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa and black beans
Baked eggplant with tomato sauce and nutritional yeast
Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and brown rice
Mushroom risotto with a side of steamed vegetables
Grilled portobello mushrooms with quinoa and vegetables
Vegan chili with brown rice
Snacks:
Almond yogurt, apple slices, mixed nuts
Almond yogurt with pineapple, vegan protein bar
Roasted chickpeas, vegan protein shake
Apple with almond butter, vegan protein bar
Smoothie with vegan protein powder, banana, and almond milk
Mixed nuts, vegan protein shake
Almond yogurt with fruit, vegan protein bar
Vitamins/Minerals Possibly Missing:
Vitamin B12: Requires supplementation.
Vitamin D: May require supplementation.
Iron: Ensure adequate intake from fortified foods or consider supplementation.
Calcium: Ensure adequate intake from fortified foods or consider supplementation.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Consider supplementation with a plant-based omega-3 supplement (e.g., algae oil).
As part of our Youth Elite Programme, every player gets a customised meal plan created for them which is built around their:
Food preferences
Allergies and intolerances
Body composition and performance goals
They include all of the timings of when to eat each meal and snack around their training session and match schedule, as well as the recipes and quantities for each meal which they need to specifically consume.
Optimising a players nutrition can have a monumental impact on their performance level, rate of progress, mental performance, injury resilience and ability to recover.
We make them super easily to implement on a family level, and most importantly, enjoyable for the player to follow and stick with. Click here for more details.
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