Sports nutrition is the consumption of nutrients such as proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates to enhance athletic performance and improve strength and endurance. It helps to increase muscle mass, accelerates muscle recovery, and provides the body with the sustenance necessary for high-intensity activities that require significant energy and stamina.
A sports nutrition program may consist of a daily food journal, post-exercise meals, or a comprehensive diet plan for training and competition. Post-workout supplements are used for muscle growth and recovery, whereas pre-workout nutraceuticals increase energy levels, hydration, and muscle strength. Athletes must know that maintaining the correct ratio of nutrients in their meals can improve their performance.
An improper diet is one of the primary contributors to the increased risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, and obesity. According to the WHO, cardiovascular diseases accounted for 17.9 million fatalities worldwide in 2016. Consumer health and wellness awareness has increased despite declining sales of B2B sports nutrition products due to the pandemic. Numerous individuals are concerned with self-care, preventive medication, nutrition, and health monitoring.
The world's populace is adopting a more health-conscious and physically active lifestyle. According to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), a Boston-based commercial health clubs trade association, the number of health club consumers in 2010 was 58 million and is expected to increase to 73.6 million in 2019. In addition, there were 11.7 million members of health clubs in Germany. These health clubs and fitness centers employ consulting dietitians, which affects the consumption of B2B sports nutrition products by trainers and fitness enthusiasts.
The producers are engaging in various efforts, such as introducing new products and product improvements, which opens up possibilities for market expansion. Clif Bar & Company, for instance, expanded the Luna bars product line in February 2021 by introducing prebiotic refreshment bars to promote digestive health. It can be used as a meal replacement or a nutritious nibble.
Additionally, strategic alliances, mergers, and acquisitions between manufacturers and distributors positively affect the market. For instance, in March 2020, Herbalife Nutrition announced a partnership with India's Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) to supply the institute's athletes with sports nutrition products.
North America is the most significant global B2B sports nutrition market shareholder and is estimated to exhibit a CAGR of 9.31% during the forecast period. This region's increased awareness of nutritional supplements drives their market demand. The increase in government initiatives promoting sports-related activities is an additional significant factor driving the adoption of these products in this region. For instance, the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition promotes initiatives and activities to increase the general population's interest in sports.
Additionally, developments in ancillary industries influence the market's growth favorably. In November 2018, BASF launched PeptAIde, a B2B sports nutrition ingredient comprising a unique set of plant-based peptides modulating inflammation. PeptAIde was identified using artificial intelligence. Similarly, in June 2016, Flex Pharma, Inc. announced the launch of HOTSHOT, a scientifically proven sports shot that prevents muscle cramps and soreness in endurance and non-endurance athletes. The presence of minor and established players in the market increases the availability of products, thereby enhancing the market penetration of nutritional products in this region.