Supplement rankings differed for strength, endurance and recovery
The abstract describes a comparison of protein, creatine and omega-3 supplements in trained athletes, with different rankings across outcomes.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Creatine ranked highest for muscle strength, protein for endurance, and omega-3 for recovery in this network meta-analysis. These rankings concern different outcomes in trained athletes. The abstract does not name the reference group for each reported effect estimate or describe supplementation periods, leaving the practical size of any advantage unclear.
This abstract-based account cannot establish dose-specific effects or lasting performance changes: doses, follow-up lengths and detailed recovery endpoints are missing. The comparator behind each numerical effect estimate is also unspecified.
How the comparisons worked
The analysis combined direct comparisons from trials with indirect comparisons across the trial network. Participants needed a history of structured training, but that eligibility requirement does not establish how long they took the supplements.
What agreement tells us
The authors found no statistically significant disagreement between direct and indirect evidence. This check concerns agreement within the network. It does not explain which recovery measures were used or how noticeable the reported changes would be.
The original publication
Comparative Effects of Dietary Protein, Creatine, and Omega-3 Supplementation on Muscle Strength, Endurance, and Recovery in Trained Athletes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.
Wang Z, Qin G, Kim BM
Nutrients · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41901084
- Record checked
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