Supplement
Decision Scripts
Conversation scripts for handling pre-workout, creatine, nitrate, and deficiency questions without letting hype outrun evidence and safety.
For coaches and families fielding supplement questions from athletes who want quick answers fast
The goal is not to win an argument about supplements. It is to slow the decision down enough that the athlete makes a safer one.
Script 1
Athlete asks about pre-workout
Use when an athlete wants energy drinks or stimulant-heavy products before practice or races.
Before we talk about a product, I want to know what problem you are trying to solve and whether food, sleep, or your schedule is the bigger issue.
- Most athletes asking for pre-workout are really asking about fatigue, underfueling, or time-of-day chaos.
- Do not frame stimulants as the normal answer to feeling flat.
- If the athlete is still determined, move to third-party testing and dose caution immediately.
Script 2
Parent asks if creatine is safe
Use when a family is open to creatine but wants a calmer evidence-based explanation.
Creatine is one of the better-studied options, but it still works best when the basics, the dose, and the product quality are handled correctly.
- Keep the discussion on evidence, daily routine, and realistic expectations.
- Stress that hydration, food, and training quality still matter more.
- If the athlete is young or medically complex, invite the physician or RD into the decision.
Script 3
Athlete asks for iron or vitamin D 'just in case'
Use when the athlete wants to supplement around fatigue without lab context.
If we think there might be a deficiency, the next step is testing or clinical follow-up, not blind guessing with supplements.
- A real deficiency question should move toward labs and clinician guidance quickly.
- Do not let a supplement replace ferritin, vitamin D, or broader health follow-up.
- Food-first language is still appropriate while the athlete waits for the right evaluation.
Script 4
Coach needs a quick filter
Use when a product looks interesting but the coach needs a fast decision standard.
If it is not third-party tested, if the basics are weak, or if the claim sounds bigger than the evidence, we slow down.
- Ask what problem the product solves, what evidence exists, and whether food would solve it first.
- A smaller honest answer is better than a hype-based maybe.
- The right move is often not now rather than buy it today.
Documentation tip
- Record the product name, label photo, or specific ingredient when possible.
- Note the athlete's stated goal so the follow-up stays problem-focused instead of product-focused.
- Document whether third-party testing, dose discussion, or lab referral came up.
Referral path
- Clarify the real performance or health problem first
- Check third-party testing and product basics before endorsing anything
- Loop in parent or guardian for minors before supplement use becomes routine
- Refer deficiency, medication, or medical-history questions to the RD or physician