Could Indian Rugby Squad Benefit From Sports Supplements?
A number of players from the Indian rugby squad have said the team could benefit from using sports supplements.
This is according to the Indo-Asian News Service, which revealed that the sportsmen have been hearing about such products for a year but are still not taking them.
The news source stated: "Rugby is a physical sport and the food supplements are a must if rugby players have to develop strength and stamina without which they will only be going through the motions on the field."
One way in which people can build up strength is by taking whey protein powder.
Head coach of the Indian team Usaia Buimaiwai said the men are carrying on without the sports supplements.
He remarked: "The supplements are important for a rugby player. It is a physical sport and high amount of proteins and carbohydrates form the key part of the diet. These supplements help strengthen muscles."
According to Mr Buimaiwai, the products have been delayed because of failures by an agency that was supposed to be providing them.
In August, the team took part in a 7s tournament in Istanbul and this month it is heading to Shanghai for a similar competition.
The tournaments are preparation for the Commonwealth Games and, on this topic, captain Nasser Hussain said: "Playing in the games will be a fantastic experience.
"To compete against the top teams in the world will give us great exposure. We have nothing to lose and we will go out there and give our 100 per cent."
As well as whey protein powder, there are a range of other supplements that sportspeople can take, including those that incorporate glutamine.
Such products are usually high in protein, low in carbohydrates and fat and contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, all of which help the body repair and defend itself.