The UCI cannot ban ketones but asks that they be avoided

The eternal controversy continues about the use of the trendy supplement, ketones, which many believe to be an essential ingredient for achieving maximum performance in cycling. The Movement for Credible Cycling had initially opposed the use of ketones. Now the UCI, which had stayed out of this controversy, adopts the principles of the MPCC and recommends that teams do not use ketones.

UCI adopts MPCC's stance against the use of ketones

There is no doubt that ketones seem to be the latest magical supplement promising to extract the maximum performance from cyclists. A supplement that some teams like Visma-Lease a Bike, a major proponent of its use, have been working on and researching for some time, attributing much of their success to its consumption.

Let's remember that ketones are nothing more than substances that the body naturally generates as a result of fat metabolism, which muscles can use as an energy source without having to rely on precious and scarce glycogen reserves.

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From the beginning, the MPCC has opposed their use due to the appearance of certain side effects such as vomiting and other stomach problems, in addition to the lack of studies on the possible long-term implications of ketone consumption. Now, after the MPCC's insistence on the UCI to take a position regarding the use of ketones, the highest cycling body has stated that the benefits of using ketones are not proven and, therefore, advises against the use of a substance that, on the other hand, is authorized by the WADA.

A statement that, in practical terms, has no effect since the UCI does not have the authority to prohibit the use of ketones as their use is authorized by WADA, making it a simple recommendation without any regulated use. It remains binding, as before, for MPCC members whose teams commit to following all the guidelines set by the movement, including not using ketones.

In any case, ketones have become an increasingly popular supplement, even beyond the professional realm.