From January 1st 2021, new anti-doping rules come into force to update from the last changes in 2019. UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) have led the process for sport in the UK and have provided detailed information about the changes. The World Anti-Doping Agency have also implemented changes to the lists of banned substances.
UKAD state that ‘The Code is an essential document which harmonises anti-doping policies, rules and regulations around the globe and impacts all athletes, coaches and sports organisations.’ A summary of the major changes can be seen here, but we encourage everyone to read the more detailed documentation available on the UKAD website.
Read the full new rules here: 2021 UK Anti Doping Rules
UKAD are hosting three free Clean Sport Forum events between 20th and 22nd October, sign up here.
Vitamin D is mostly obtained through skin exposure to sunlight, however foods such as eggs, cereals and oily fish are also good sources of vitamin D. It is important for bone, muscle, and immune health. Vitamin D deficiencies can be common in the UK and are more prevalent in athletes who mostly train or compete indoors. Whilst a healthy balanced diet and skin exposure to sunlight is the best way to maintain vitamin D levels, supplements can also be used where a deficiency is identified by a qualified professional.
Doctors and sports nutritionists, may recommend vitamin D supplements for shooters due to low sun light exposure. In line with anti-doping behaviours, it is important to only take vitamin D supplements that batch tested to ensure no contamination which could violate anti-doping rules. There are a number of UK-based companies who provide batch tested vitamin D supplements such as Health Span Elite.
Informed Sport test batches of supplements so that athletes can ensure their supplement will not cause an anti-doping violation. Use this service to ensure that any supplements you take are clean for sport.
Vitamin D supplements should only be taken upon the advice of a relevant qualified professional and only batch tested products should be taken. For further information, see this info-graphic from the Sport Wales Institute Performance Nutrition Team.
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