A Guide to Using Supplements

The market provides a range of different bodybuilding supplements for athletes and when used alongside a balanced diet and muscle training programme can effectively improve results. The most popular supplements include multivitamins, minerals and joint supplements, protein powder, creatine, meal replacements, essential fatty acids and nitric oxide.

1. protein powder. To build and repair muscles needs protein, at a level of 2-3g per kg of bodyweight. Protein powder containing whey is a good choice to take after a workout for fast absorption and use a slow release casein protein powder for a sustained level of muscle building protein throughout the day or even last thing at night. Make sure to include good quality lean protein in the diet and always read and follow instructions on the label.

protein powder is considered one of the most important bodybuilding supplements, as protein is required to build and repair muscles. Providing quality protein powder alongside a high protein diet of lean meat, poultry, fish and diary ensures adequate amounts.

3. Fat burners. These are substances that use the stored fat in the body and convert it to free fatty acids to be used as energy. This helps conserve carbohydrates and consume fat, a process known as thermogenesis. These ergogenic aids may give the athlete a real energy boost and a greater length of performance. They tend to have stimulants included in them, such as caffeine or guarana and should be used sparingly as they can lead to burnout or, in some cases, health issues.

4. Creatine. Creatine monohydrate is the supplement of choice for athlete for weight gain and energy. It works by increasing the energy produced by the muscles and although naturally exists in our bodies bodybuilders or sports people use up much more than the average person usage of about 2g of creatine a day.

Meal replacements are taken in the form of a liquid and are filled with protein and nutrients. They are used to gain weight or lose weight, depending on how they are taken and to replenish lost nutrients after a hard work out. They are convenient and nutritionally balanced and are a much better option than missing a meal or heading for the fast food counter.

5. Fat burners. Converting the stored fat in the body to free fatty acids produces energy and this is what fat burners do. By conserving carbohydrates and consuming fat, a process known as thermogenesis, these ergogenic aids may give the athlete a real energy boost and a greater length of performance. Stimulants tend to be included, such as caffeine or guarana and should be used carefully to prevent burnout or occasionally health issues such as raised blood pressure.

6. Testosterone boosters. Stimulating the body’s own natural production of testosterone with boosters can lead to a large growth of muscle and strength. Use with care as there are side effects associated with them, including liver stress and raised blood pressure. When used with consideration bodybuilding supplements can be very effective. Always read the labels carefully and keep to the dosages recommended and follow advice from a health practitioner if necessary for optimum performance.

Learn more about bodybuilding supplements and get some expert advice at predatornutrition.com