A wide range of nutritional supplements are available, these may include

• Meal replacements
• Protein powders
• Carbohydrate drinks and related products
• Vitamins and minerals
  

The purpose of these supplements is to provide increased intakes of specific macro-nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) or micro-nutrients (vitamins and minerals), in a convenient and digestible form.

The use of macro-nutrient supplements may be appropriate for rugby players who are unable to meet their energy requirements through their normal diet.
The use of micro-nutrient supplements is not usually required by individuals following a normal, varied, balanced diet and living in healthy environment.

What are Ergogenic Aids?

Ergogenic aids are products or substances which claim to improve performance to a higher level than may be achieved by training alone. Examples of substances in this category may include

• Creatine
• Hydroxy-Methyl-Butyrate (HMB)
• Phosphate
• Glycerol
• Many others, including a large number containing banned substances under the Prohibited List, the ingestion of which could result in a positive drugs test.
  

What is Creatine?

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in significant concentrations in meat and fish. Creatine is also available commercially, principally as powders and tablets.
Although the current scientific research suggests that Creatine may be a safe, legal and effective supplement to enhance performance, the position of the RFU is that as with all nutritional supplements, it should not be taken unless under strict medical supervision.

What are Herbal Products?

The term herbal product is used to cover a wide spectrum of substances ranging from those claiming to assist in the recovery from medical conditions, to those which claim to improve performance.