Australia is in the midst of a gym boom with more than 800 new gyms opening in Australia every year, however this fitness bonanza is not without its darkside. What’s the real cost to the influx and abuse of sports nutrition, vitamins and dietary supplements?

Fitness is a major thriving industry in Australia and abroad, creating a massive market for sports nutrition, vitamins and dietary supplements. These cause an estimated 23,000 emergency admissions in the US with reports of liver, kidney and heart damage.  Domestically the protein supplement market in Australia was valued at A$545 million dollars, and is predicted to keep growing by about 10% per year. Speaking to us about this today is Dr Evangeline Mantzioris (evanga leen man si or is), a Lecturer in Nutrition and Food Sciences at the University of South Australia.