Dietary supplement use is quite prevalent among bodybuilders to enhance their physiques for competition. Many of the dietary supplements used by these athletes are neither safe nor
effective. Several reviews have been published detailing the efficacy of dietary supplements for athletes; however, none have been written specifically for bodybuilders and physique athletes. Therefore, the aim of this article is to provide an evidence-based review of the top 5 dietary supplements for bodybuilding competitors: creatine, caffeine, protein powders, free-form essential amino acids, and beta-alanine. This review will provide bodybuilders, coaches,
and practitioners with information on each supplement’s mechanism of action, seasonal benefits, protocol for use, and special considerations to optimize supplement strategies for performance, physique, and overall competitive success.