Energy Supplements

Many athletes consider taking dietary supplements because they are looking for the “magic ingredient” to increase performance.

I myself consume them. I cover the basic such as protein, multi-vitamins, anti-oxidants, and glutamine.

In the extreme case of performance-enhancing supplements, athletes (particularly bodybuilders) may choose to use illegal substances such as anabolic steroids, compounds which are related to the hormone testosterone, which can quickly build mass and strength, but have many adverse effects such as high blood pressure and negative gender specific effects.

Dietary protein began to be consumed in the 1940s and muscle building results were found in resistance and strength training athletes.

Protein intake is a part of the nutrient requirements for the regular athlete and is an important component of exercise training, because it can also aid in performance and recovery.

Dietary protein intake for well-trained athletes should occur before, during and after physical activity as it is advantageous in gaining muscle mass and strength.

Creatine may be helpful for well-trained athletes to increase exercise performance and strength in concordance with their dietary regimen.

Also, the substance glutamine, found in whey protein supplements, is the most abundant free amino acid found in the human body.

Which supplement is best for you?

For well-trained and well-nourished athletes it is considered that glutamine may have a possible role in stimulated anabolic processes such muscle glycogen and protein synthesis.

Other popular supplements studies done include androstenedione, chromium, and ephedra.

High energy supplements have shown to increase the performance of physical activity. A study done at the University of Texas saw a 4.7% increase of performance in 83% of participants after drinking Red Bull Energy Drink which was more intense than the compared placebo.

The energy drink most dominantly increased the epinephrine and noreprinephrine (adrenaline and its precursor) levels and beta-endorphins in the blood than before consumption.

Caffeine has been known since the 1900s and became popularly used since the 1970s when its power of masking fatigue became highly recognized.

Similarly, the caffeine found in energy drinks shows an increased reaction performance and increased good feelings of energy, focus and alterness in quickness and reaction anaerobic power tests.

In other words, consuming an energy drink with caffeine increases short time/rapid exercise performance (like short full-speed sprints and heavy power weight lifting.)