Enhancing Recovery in Soccer: A Scoping Review on Nutritional and Supplementation Strategies.

Purpose

This scoping review aimed to synthesize and map the evidence on nutritional and supplementary strategies used to enhance postexercise recovery in soccer players. Specifically, it sought to (1) identify effective interventions across physical, physiological, perceptual, and biochemical outcomes; (2) describe methodological designs; and (3) highlight research gaps for future investigation.

Methods

Following Cochrane and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, 4 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SportDiscus) were searched without date limits. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials involving adult soccer players (≥18 y) that examined nutritional or supplementary interventions administered within 72 hours postmatch or after an exercise-induced muscle damage protocol. Data extraction, synthesis, and a risk-of-bias assessment were performed independently by 2 reviewers.

Results

Eleven studies (n = 135 players) met inclusion criteria. Interventions included carbohydrates, proteins (casein, whey, and milk protein), tart cherry juice, curcumin, caffeine, and ketones. The most frequently assessed outcomes were physical (jumping, sprinting, and strength) and perceptual (muscle soreness, and well-being), while biochemical and physiological measures were less common. Curcumin (500 mg·d-1) and presleep casein supplementation (40 g) demonstrated beneficial effects on physical and perceptual recovery markers up to 36 hours postmatch in professional soccer players. In contrast, carbohydrates, caffeine, and milk protein showed inconsistent or negligible effects. Most studies (82%) presented a high risk of bias, small sample sizes, and heterogeneous methodologies.

Conclusions

Current evidence on nutritional and supplementary recovery strategies in soccer is limited and methodologically weak. Curcumin and casein show the most promise for enhancing short-term recovery. Future research should include well-controlled trials with standardized protocols, larger samples, and inclusion of female players to inform evidence-based recovery nutrition in soccer.