The reason that many 'over-the-counter' vitamins/supplements contain 'banned' substances is because they contain either DHEA or pro-hormones like androstenedione, androstenediol, etc...
Those substances are marketed with many 'benefits', yet people who buy them don't realize they are banned by the IOC.
Further, people who get hormone therapy (IGF-1 or human growth hormone), are also using banned substances, although again these are marketed as 'wonder miracles' and the customers are never told that these are banned by the IOC.
The problem with drug tests is that they can disqualify athletes who are not cheating. For example, the substance in marijuana/hemp, THC, is also contained is small amounts in hemp seed oil, which is a VERY healthy product. However, eating lots of hemp seed oil, even though it doesn't make you 'high', can get you disqualified.
Further, there is some debate as to taking colostrum (milk extract), because it contains IGF-1, which might get you disqualified.
I have heard of other examples of 'normal' foods which can get you disqualified, even though I can't remember them all.
Personally I suspect three particular athletes in the freediving world of using questionable substances, but I could be completely wrong...(and I *hope* I'm wrong!)
Someone apparently approached the IAFD with a list of two or three athletes who were apparently using illegal substances, but it was only a rumour.
Eric Fattah
BC, Canada
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