We all want the best possible results from all our hard weight lifting
work. However, supplements like anything else you introduce to your body, need to be understood. What are these things, what do they do, and how can they effect your overall health? And, as always, be sure to sit with a fully educated medical or sports medicine physician who is up to date on these supplements and can evaluate fully whether they are the right choice for your particular situation.
What's IN Bodybuilding Supplements?
Go
to any body building site and you wll see over 200 separate supplements
for sale. While some are basically safe, all have side effects and
potential dangers that you should consider prior to taking. For information
on other supplements and proteins see the article " Wipe the Hype."
Beta-Alanine/Carnosine:Beta alanine is a naturally occurring non-essential amino acid meaning that your body makes enough on its own. One study found that beta alanine increases Carnosine. So why not just take Carnosine? Unfortunately, only about 40% of the Carnosine you take actually contains Beta-Alanine, making it an inefficient source at best. Currently there are no research studies on the effects of high dose Beta- Alanine on the body.
Creatine: Creatine is naturally produced in the human body from amino acids primarily in the kidney and liver. It is transported in the blood for use by muscles. Creatine is not an essential nutrient. It is manufactured in the human body from L-arginine, glycine, and L-methionine. Creatine increases production of ATP, an energy source for muscles. One report noted that one of the reasons Creatine can increase muscle size is that it attracts water. But, because of this Creatine can pull water away from other areas of the body causing dehydration. High doses could potentially injure the liver, kidneys and heart.
Arginine: Arginine is an amino acid. It is found in red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products. It can also be made in a laboratory, Arginine is converted in the body into a chemical called nitric oxide which causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. Arginine also stimulates the release of growth hormone, insulin, and other substances. Arginine can cause an allergic response, make herpes worse, and lower blood pressure. If you have a heart condition, don’t take Arginine.
Cysteine:Cysteine is an amino acid. When used as a supplement, it is usually in the form of N-acetyl-L-cysteine, or NAC, also known as L-cysteine. Taken at more than 7 grams, toxicity may occur leading to death, Take a multivitamin with cysteine to replace any trace minerals lost.
Glutamine: Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid. A research report sad some individuals can experience mania after using glutamine. Glutamine can additionally cause seizures. and stress the kidneys. Glutamine can increase the growth of tumor cells. If you have a sensitivity to MSG you should not take Glutamine as it has a similar allergic reaction in the body.
Glutathione: Glutathione is a small protein that acts as a potent antioxidant and is a natural protein produced in the liver. It is found in various fruits, vegetables and meats. It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates. It is responsible for stimulating growth of the body's tissues. For Professional athletes and bodybuilders Glutathione may help optimal performance and building muscle. Side effects remain unknown.
Leucine: Leucine is an essential amino acid that can build up at large doses and lead to liver and kidney failure. You should be aware that if any swelling, itchy or rashes become apparent soon after taking leucine indicating an allergic reaction that requires medical attention.
Lysine:Lysine is a basic building block of proteins.. Vegetarians, and vegan may have low levels of Lysine. Do not use Lysine if you have kidney issues. Taking Lysine with Calcium could lead to excess levels of calcium building up in the body.
Methionine: Methionine is an essential amino acid. It is found in cheese, eggs, fish, meat, and poultry as well as fruits and vegetables, it is is thought to have antioxidant properties. Methionine works with Taurine, an amino acid, for the heart and for neurotransmission. It also plays a role in the synthesis of blood proteins, globulins and albumin. It breaks down fats, Side effects include muscle paralysis, hair loss, depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, liver deterioration and impaired growth. The drug's most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and mild allergic reactions. Also, patients with cancer and coronary artery disease should not take Methionine.
Taurine: Taurine is a non-essential amino acid located in muscle and nerve tissue, During extremely strenuous exercise there may be a need for extra Taurine supplementation. Because Taurine can lower blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure, anyone on medication for these conditions should consult a physician prior to supplementation.
Theanine: Theanine is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves and mushrooms. It is a derivative of Glutamine. Theanine may encourage calmness and relaxation. It may increase the effects of chemotherapy. It is important not to take it with antidepressants or strong pain killers. Irritability is a sign of a medical interaction or allergic reaction.
Tyrosine: Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid. It is formed in your body through the synthesis of phenylalanine. It is found in fish, meat, nuts and dairy. Excess Tyrosine consumption could alter brain chemicals. Several side effects can occur effecting emotions, fatigue, and depression.
BCAAs: Branched-Chain Amino Acids are among the nine essential amino acids. They are fond in meat, dairy products, and legumes. BCAAs include leucine, isoleucine, and valine. “Branched-chain” refers to the chemical structure. These aminos stimulate the building of protein in muscle and help reduce muscle breakdown. Side effects include fatigue and loss of coordination. Do not take when you need good coordination, such as driving. Seizures can occur and blood sugar levels affected with high dosages.
DHEA: Produced by the adrenal gland, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroidal hormone. it is believed to promote muscle growth. There have been health warnings that this supplement can increases the risk of breast, prostate and endometrial cancers. Other potential side effects can include include acne, hair loss and antisocial behavioral changes.
DMAE:DMAE is a substance that is naturally occurring in the brain. It stands for dimethylaminoethanol. It has been advertised to help with signs of aging. Studies on DMAE have shown that it affects cells and can cause cell swelling.