Effect of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains with resistance exercise: a meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#androstenedione #body-composition #chromium #creatine #dehydroepiandrosterone

Effect of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains with resistance exercise: a meta-analysis

Nissen et al., 2003 | J Appl Physiol (1985) | Meta Analysis

Citation

Nissen Steven L, Sharp Rick L. Effect of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains with resistance exercise: a meta-analysis. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2003-Feb;94(2):651-9

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to quantify which dietary supplements augment lean mass and strength gains during resistance training. Peer-reviewed studies between the years 1967 and 2001 were included in the analysis if they met a predetermined set of experimental criteria, among which were at least 3-wk duration and resistance-training 2 or more times a week. Lean mass and strength were normalized for meta-analysis by conversion to percent change per week and by calculating the effect size for each variable. Of the 250 supplements examined, only 6 had more than 2 studies that met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Creatine and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) were found to significantly increase net lean mass gains of 0.36 and 0.28%/wk and strength gains of 1.09 and 1.40%/wk (P < 0.05), respectively. Chromium, dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, and protein did not significantly affect lean gain or strength. In conclusion, two supplements, creatine and HMB, have data supporting their use to augment lean mass and strength gains with resistance training.

Key Findings

In conclusion, two supplements, creatine and HMB, have data supporting their use to augment lean mass and strength gains with resistance training.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 2
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Androstenedione
  • Body Composition
  • Chromium
  • Creatine
  • Dehydroepiandrosterone
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Humans
  • Physical Education and Training
  • Proteins
  • Valerates
  • Weight Lifting

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis
  • Vertical: chromium

Provenance

  • PMID: 12433852
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: Not in PMC
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09