Boosting your anv system Fod dietary uealth is nice, but what if you could get all you need from a single product? However, the slight increase in body weight from fluid retention might hinder performance in other sports [ ]. The clinical studies described above found no side effects of Tribulus terrestris.

Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes -

However, performance benefits are more modest in exercise tests lasting more than 4 minutes because aerobic metabolic pathways increasingly meet energy demands. The ISSN called for more research to determine whether beta-alanine increases the strength and muscle mass that regular resistance exercise, such as weightlifting, can produce.

The authors of the most recent review of studies on beta-alanine's effects on exercise concluded that supplementation has a statistically significant and positive effect on performance including in both isolated-limb and whole-body exercises , especially in protocols lasting 30 seconds to 10 minutes [ 58 ].

However, this review also highlighted the fact that small studies of short duration using varied exercise and supplement protocols dominate this scientific literature. The 40 placebo-controlled studies reviewed, for example, employed 65 exercise protocols and 70 exercise measures in a total of 1, participants.

Furthermore, the total dose of beta-alanine that participants consumed ranged from 84 to g in studies lasting 28—90 days. Beta-alanine supplementation appears to be safe at 1.

This tingling, prickling, or burning sensation is common in the face, neck, back of the hands, and upper trunk and typically lasts 60—90 minutes but is not a painful, serious, or harmful reaction.

Use of divided doses or a sustained-release form of the supplement can attenuate paresthesia resulting from beta-alanine consumption [ 52 , 54 ]. Some research has also found that beta-alanine supplements can produce pruritus itchy skin , but the authors do not indicate the severity of this effect [ 59 ].

There are no safety data on use of the supplement for more than 1 year [ 54 , 60 ]. There is insufficient expert consensus on the value of taking beta-alanine to enhance performance in intense, short-term activities or its safety, particularly when users take it regularly for at least several months.

In a position statement, the AND, DoC, and ACSM advise that beta-alanine supplementation might improve training capacity and does enhance performance, especially of high-intensity exercise lasting 60— seconds, that acid-base disturbances resulting from increased anaerobic glycolysis would otherwise impair [ 12 ].

In its position statement, the ISSN concludes that beta-alanine supplementation improves exercise performance and attenuates neuromuscular fatigue [ 54 ]. The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of beta-alanine for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how the supplement should be used for best results [ 29 ].

It advises users to take beta-alanine supplements with meals to augment muscle carnosine levels and to use divided lower doses or take a sustained-release form if paresthesia occurs. HMB is a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine.

Some experts hypothesize that skeletal muscle cells that become stressed and damaged from exercise require an exogenous source of the coenzyme for synthesis of cholesterol in their cellular membranes to restore structure and function [ 62 , 63 ]. Experts also believe that the conversion of leucine to HMB activates muscle protein synthesis and reduces protein breakdown [ 63 ].

Although studies have investigated HMB for two decades, they have used substantially different periods of supplementation 1 day to 6 weeks and daily doses 1. Studies also used participants of different ages 19 to 50 years , training status e. It is therefore difficult to predict what, if any, benefits an exercising individual might experience from consuming HMB.

There is general agreement that HMB helps speed up recovery from exercise of sufficient amount and intensity to induce skeletal muscle damage [ 63 , 65 ]. Therefore, trained athletes must exert themselves more than untrained individuals to potentially benefit from using the supplement.

Some studies suggest that HMB use has additional benefits, including an ability to enhance strength, power, skeletal muscle hypertrophy, and aerobic performance in both trained and untrained people [ 63 ].

A review of safety data from nine studies found that users tolerate HMB well, and it is safe at daily intakes of 3 g for 3 to 8 weeks in younger ages 18—47 years and older ages 62—81 adults of both sexes who do or do not exercise [ 66 ].

Assessments of blood chemistry, hematology, and emotional affect found no adverse effects. Use of HMB did not alter or adversely affect any measured hematologic, hepatic, or renal-function parameters in these young men. There is no expert consensus on the value of taking HMB for several months or longer or its safety.

HMB is not on a list of evidence-based ergogenic aids issued by the AND, DoC, and the ACSM [ 12 ]. The Australian Institute of Sport does not recommend HMB supplementation by athletes, except as part of a research protocol or with proper monitoring [ 29 ].

However, the ISSN notes that HMB can enhance recovery by reducing exercise-induced skeletal muscle damage in both trained and untrained individuals [ 63 ]. HMB is available in two forms: as a mono-hydrated calcium salt HMB-Ca and a calcium-free form HMB-free acid [HMB-FA]. Those who wish to limit their calcium intake can use HMB-FA [ 63 ].

Although the latter form appears to have a faster and greater effect based on its ability to raise HMB plasma levels, more studies are needed to compare the effects of HMB-Ca with those of HMB-FA [ 63 ]. The ISSN recommends that healthy adults interested in using HMB supplements take 1—2 g HMB-Ca 60 to minutes before exercise or 1—2 g HMB-FA 30 to 60 minutes before exercise [ 63 ].

Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is found in foods such as beets, spinach, and whole-grain breads. The mechanisms by which betaine might enhance exercise and athletic performance are not known, but many are hypothesized.

A limited number of small studies in men have assessed betaine in supplemental form as a potential ergogenic aid. These studies, which typically examined strength- and power-based performance in bodybuilders and, occasionally, cyclists, provided conflicting results, and performance improvements tended to be modest [ ].

The several small studies of athletes described in the previous paragraph who took betaine supplements for up to several weeks found no side effects or safety concerns.

However, research has not adequately evaluated the safety of betaine. More research on betaine supplementation to enhance various types of performance, training protocols, and exercise during specific sports is needed before any recommendations for its use can be made [ 71 ].

Three essential amino acids EAAs —leucine, isoleucine, and valine—are the branched-chain amino acids BCAAs , whose name reflects their chemical structure. Unlike other EAAs, the BCAAs can be metabolized by mitochondria in skeletal muscle to provide energy during exercise [ 74 , 75 ].

The BCAAs, especially leucine, might also stimulate protein synthesis in exercised muscle [ 72 , 76 ]. The limited research on the potential ergogenic effects of the BCAAs has found little evidence to date that supplements of these amino acids improve performance in endurance-related aerobic events [ 75 ].

The BCAAs might delay feelings of fatigue or help maintain mental focus by competing with the amino acid tryptophan a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin that regulates mood and sleep for entry into the brain, but this effect has not been well studied [ 72 , 74 , 75 ].

Overall, however, studies to date provide inconsistent evidence of the ability of BCAAs to stimulate muscle protein synthesis beyond the capacity of sufficient dietary amounts of any high-quality protein to perform this function [ 76 ].

Furthermore, it is not clear from existing research whether consumption of protein and BCAAs before versus after a workout affects their ability to maximize muscle protein synthesis and reduce protein catabolism [ 12 , ].

Studies have not consistently shown that taking supplements of BCAAs or any of their three constituent amino acids singly enhances exercise and athletic performance, builds muscle mass, or aids in recovery from exercise.

Consuming animal foods containing complete proteins—or a combination of plant-based foods with complementary proteins that together provide all EAAs—automatically increases consumption of BCAAs see section on protein.

This is also true of consuming protein powders made from complete proteins, especially whey, which has more leucine than either casein or soy [ 78 ]. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, muscles, and other organs such as the heart by binding to adenosine receptors on cells, thereby blocking the activity of adenosine, a neuromodulator with sedative-like properties [ 83 , 84 ].

In this way, caffeine enhances arousal, increases vigor, and reduces fatigue [ 13 , 85 , 86 ]. Caffeine also appears to reduce perceived pain and exertion [ 13 , 85 ]. During the early stages of endurance exercise, caffeine might mobilize free fatty acids as a source of energy and spare muscle glycogen [ 38 ].

Caffeine is commonly used in energy drinks and shots touted for their performance-enhancement effects [ 87 , 88 ]. It is also found in energy gels containing carbohydrates and electrolytes as well as in anhydrous caffeine-only pills.

For an individual weighing pounds 70 kg , this dose is equivalent to — mg caffeine. Taking more, however, is unlikely to improve performance further and increases the risk of side effects.

A review of the literature found that caffeine intake affected sport-specific performance e. Although 30 of the 33 trials showed positive improvements in performance, the improvements were not statistically significant in half of them [ 85 ].

In these studies, performance improvement ranged from a decrease of 0. Factors such as the timing of ingestion, caffeine intake mode or form, and habituation to caffeine could also have accounted for the varied effects on performance.

Caffeine supplementation is more likely to help with endurance-type activities such as running and activities of long duration with intermittent activity such as soccer than more anaerobic, short-term bouts of intense exercise such as sprinting or lifting weights [ 91 ].

Some evidence suggests that caffeine is more likely to improve performance in people who are not habituated to it [ 85 ]. However, other evidence shows no habituation effect of caffeine consumption on performance [ 92 ].

Other adverse effects of caffeine include insomnia, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and arrhythmia [ ]. Caffeine does not induce diuresis or increase sweat loss during exercise and therefore does not reduce fluid balance in the body that would adversely affect performance [ 13 , 90 , 98 ].

For healthy adults, the U. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that caffeine-containing energy drinks in particular have no place in the diets of children or adolescents and are not suitable for use during routine physical activity [ ].

Pure powdered caffeine is available as a dietary supplement and is very potent. Furthermore, combining caffeine with other stimulants could increase the potential for adverse effects [ 94 ].

At least two young men have died as a result of taking an unknown amount of pure powdered caffeine [ ]. Caffeine is easily and rapidly absorbed, even from the buccal membranes in the mouth, and is distributed throughout the body and brain.

It reaches peak concentrations in the blood within 45 minutes of consumption and has a half-life of about 4—5 hours [ 83 ]. For a potential benefit to athletic performance, users should consume caffeine 15 to 60 minutes before exercise [ 13 , 85 ]. Consumption of caffeine with fluid during exercise of long duration might extend any performance improvements [ 85 ].

In a position statement, the AND, DoC, and ACSM state that caffeine supplementation reduces perceived fatigue and enables users to sustain exercise at the desired intensity longer [ 12 ]. The U. It adds that caffeine could reduce perceived exertion when exercise lasts longer.

The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of caffeine for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how caffeine should be used for best results [ 29 ].

The World Anti-Doping Agency does not prohibit or limit caffeine use [ ]. L-citrulline is a nonessential amino acid produced in the body, mainly from glutamine, and obtained from the diet.

Watermelon is the best-known source; 1 cup diced seedless watermelon has about mg citrulline [ ]. The subsequent conversion of arginine to nitric oxide, a potent dilator of blood vessels, might be the mechanism by which citrulline could serve as an ergogenic aid. In fact, consumption of citrulline might be a more efficient way to raise blood arginine levels than consumption of arginine because more citrulline is absorbed from the gut than arginine.

Most studies have used citrulline malate, a combination of citrulline with malic acid a constituent in many fruits that is also produced endogenously , because malate, an intermediate in the Krebs cycle, might enhance energy production [ 30 ].

The research to support supplemental citrulline as an ergogenic aid is limited and conflicting at best. The few published studies have had heterogeneous designs and ranged in duration from 1 to 16 days.

As an example, in one randomized controlled study with a crossover design, 41 healthy male weightlifters age 22—37 years consumed 8 g citrulline malate or a placebo 1 hour before completing barbell bench presses to exhaustion [ ]. Overall, participants could complete significantly more repetitions when taking the supplement and reported significantly less muscle soreness 1 and 2 days after the test.

Another study that randomized 17 young healthy men and women to take citrulline without malate either 3 g before testing or 9 g over 24 hours or a placebo found that participants using the citrulline did not perform as well as those taking the placebo on an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion [ ].

Although citrulline supplementation might increase plasma levels of nitric oxide metabolites, such a response has not been directly related to any improvement in athletic performance [ 30 ]. Studies have not adequately assessed the safety of citrulline, particularly when users take it in supplemental form for months at a time.

In the study of weight lifters described above, 6 of the 41 participants reported stomach discomfort after taking the supplement [ ]. The research to date does not provide strong support for taking citrulline or citrulline malate to enhance exercise or athletic performance [ 30 ].

Whether athletes in specific sports or activities might benefit from taking supplemental citrulline remains to be determined [ ]. Dietary supplements that contain citrulline provide either citrulline or citrulline malate. Citrulline malate is Sellers of some citrulline malate dietary supplements claim that they provide a higher percentage of citrulline with labels listing, for example, citrulline malate or tri-citrulline malate , but studies have not determined whether these supplements are superior to standard citrulline or citrulline malate supplements.

Creatine is one of the most thoroughly studied and widely used dietary supplements to enhance exercise and sports performance [ ].

Creatine is produced endogenously and obtained from the diet in small amounts. It helps generate ATP and thereby supplies the muscles with energy, particularly for short-term events [ ]. A person weighing pounds has about g creatine and phosphocreatine in his or her body, almost all in the skeletal and cardiac muscles [ ].

However, it is only when users consume much greater amounts of creatine over time as a dietary supplement that it could have ergogenic effects. Metabolized creatine is converted into the waste product creatinine, which is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Studies in both laboratory and sports settings have found that short-term creatine supplementation for 5 to 7 days in both men and women often significantly increases strength e.

In one example, a study randomized 14 healthy, resistance-trained men age 19—29 years to receive 25 g creatine monohydrate or a placebo for 6—7 days [ ]. Participants taking the supplement had significant improvements in peak power output during all five sets of jump squats and in repetitions during all five sets of bench presses on three occasions.

Compared with those taking the placebo, participants taking the creatine improved their performance in both meter sprints and six intermittent m sprints.

Supplementation with creatine over weeks or months helps training adaptations to structured, increased workloads over time. Individuals have varied responses to creatine supplementation, based on factors such as diet and the relative percentages of various muscle fiber types [ , ].

Vegetarians, for example, with their lower muscle creatine content, might have greater responses to supplementation than meat eaters. Overall, creatine enhances performance during repeated short bursts of high-intensity, intermittent activity, such as sprinting and weight lifting, where energy for this predominantly anaerobic exercise comes mainly from the ATP-creatine phosphate energy system [ 38 , ].

Creatine supplementation seems to be of little value for endurance sports, such as distance running or swimming, that do not depend on the short-term ATP-creatine phosphate system to provide short-term energy, and it leads to weight gain that might impede performance in such sports [ , ].

Furthermore, in predominantly aerobic exercise lasting more than seconds, the body relies on oxidative phosphorylation as the primary energy source, a metabolic pathway that does not require creatine [ ]. Studies have found no consistent set of side effects from creatine use, except that it often leads to weight gain, because it increases water retention and possibly stimulates muscle protein synthesis [ , ].

Several studies have found that supplemental creatine monohydrate, when used for a strength-training program, can lead to a 1—2 kg increase in total body weight in a month [ 73 ]. Creatine is considered safe for short-term use by healthy adults [ 12 , , , ].

In addition, evidence shows that use of the product for several years is safe [ , ]. Anecdotal reactions to creatine use include nausea, diarrhea and related gastrointestinal distress, muscle cramps, and heat intolerance.

Creatine supplementation may reduce the range of motion of various parts of the body such as the shoulders, ankles, and lower legs and lead to muscle stiffness and resistance to stretching [ ].

Adequate hydration while taking creatine might minimize these uncommon risks [ ]. In a position statement, the AND, DoC, and ACSM advise that creatine enhances performance of cycles of high-intensity exercise followed by short recovery periods and improves training capacity [ 12 ].

In its position statement, the ISSN states that creatine monohydrate is the most effective nutritional supplement currently available for enhancing capacity for high-intensity exercise and lean body mass during exercise [ ].

The ISSN contends that athletes who supplement with creatine have a lower incidence of injuries and exercise-related side effects compared to those who do not take creatine [ ].

The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of creatine for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how the supplement should be used for best results [ 29 ].

In some studies, the loading dose is based on body weight e. Other, usually more expensive, forms of creatine e. Deer antler velvet consists of cartilage and epidermis from growing deer or elk antlers before ossification [ , ].

It is used as a general health aid in traditional Chinese medicine. Several growth factors have been detected in deer antler velvet, such as IGF-1, that could promote muscle tissue growth in a similar way to the quick growth of deer antlers.

Three randomized controlled trials in a total of 95 young and middle-age men and 21 young females provide virtually no evidence that deer antler velvet supplements improve aerobic or anaerobic performance, muscular strength, or endurance [ , ].

The supplements provided no significant ergogenic effects compared with placebo. Studies have not adequately assessed the safety of deer antler velvet. The studies cited above found no side effects in participants taking deer-antler-velvet supplements.

IGF-1 is available as a prescription medication, and its reported side effects include hypoglycemia, headache, edema, and joint pain [ ]. An evaluation of six deer-antler-velvet dietary supplements that were commercially available in found that five of them contained no deer IGF-1, and four were adulterated with human IGF-1 [ ].

Only one of the six supplements contained a low level of deer IGF The research to date does not support taking deer-antler-velvet supplements to enhance exercise or athletic performance.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association [ ] and the World Anti-Doping Agency [ ] ban the use of IGF-1 and its analogues in athletic competition.

DHEA is a steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex. The body can convert DHEA to the male hormone testosterone; testosterone's intermediary, androstenedione; and the female hormone estradiol [ ]. Testosterone is an anabolic steroid that promotes gains in muscle mass and strength when combined with resistance training [ ].

The minimal research on DHEA's use to enhance exercise and athletic performance provides no evidence of benefit [ ].

Compared to placebo, the DHEA and androstenedione produced no statistically significant increase in strength, aerobic capacity, lean body mass, or testosterone levels [ ].

The supplement provided no benefits compared with placebo in increasing muscle strength, lean body mass, or testosterone concentrations [ ]. Studies have not adequately assessed the safety of DHEA. The two short-term studies in men described above found no side effects from the DHEA; blood lipid levels and liver function remained normal.

Other studies have found that in women, use of DHEA for months significantly raises serum testosterone but not estrogen levels, which can cause acne and growth of facial hair [ ].

The research to date does not support taking DHEA supplements to enhance exercise or athletic performance. The National Collegiate Athletic Association and the World Anti-Doping Agency ban the use of DHEA [ , ].

Ginseng is a generic term for botanicals from the genus Panax. Some popular varieties are known as Chinese, Korean, American, and Japanese ginseng. Preparations made from ginseng roots have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia as a tonic to improve stamina and vitality [ ].

So-called Siberian or Russian ginseng Eleutherococcus senticosus , although unrelated to Panax ginseng, has also been used in traditional Chinese medicine to combat fatigue and strengthen the immune system [ ]. Numerous small studies, with and without placebo controls, have investigated Panax ginseng's potential to improve the physical performance of athletes, regular and occasional exercisers, and largely sedentary individuals.

In almost all cases, the studies found that Panax ginseng in various doses and preparations had no ergogenic effect on such measures as peak power output, time to exhaustion, perceived exertion, recovery from intense activity, oxygen consumption, or heart rate [ , ].

One review of studies of the effects of Siberian ginseng on endurance performance found that the five studies with the most rigorous research protocols with a total of 55 men and 24 women showed no effect of supplementation for up to 6 weeks on exercise performed for up to minutes [ ].

Short-term Panax ginseng use appears to be safe; the most commonly reported adverse effects include headache, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal disorders [ ].

Short-term Siberian ginseng use also appears to be safe. The studies cited above reported no adverse effects, although other reports of clinical trials have listed insomnia as a rare side effect [ ].

The research to date provides little support for taking ginseng to enhance exercise or athletic performance [ , ]. Glutamine is a key molecule in metabolism and energy production, and it contributes nitrogen for many critical biochemical reactions [ ].

It is an EAA for critically ill patients when the body's need for glutamine exceeds its capacity to produce sufficient amounts. Few studies have examined the effect of glutamine supplementation alone as an ergogenic aid [ ]. One study randomized 31 male and female weightlifters to receive either glutamine 0.

There were no significant differences between the two groups in measures of strength, torque, or lean tissue mass, demonstrating that glutamine had no effect on muscle performance, body composition, or muscle-protein degradation. Another study compared the effect of glutamine four doses of 0.

Supplementation with glutamine reduced the magnitude of strength loss, accelerated strength recovery, and diminished muscle soreness more quickly than placebo; these effects were more pronounced in the men.

Some athletes use glutamine supplements in the hope that they will attenuate exercise-induced immune impairment and reduce their risk of developing upper respiratory tract infections.

However, there is little research-based support for this benefit [ , ]. In the studies described above, the glutamine had no reported side effects. Many patients with serious catabolic illnesses, such as infections, intestinal diseases, and burns, take glutamine safely as part of their medical care.

Daily oral doses ranging from 0. The research to date does not support taking glutamine alone to improve exercise and athletic performance [ , ]. Iron is an essential mineral and a structural component of hemoglobin, an erythrocyte protein that transfers oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, and myoglobin, a protein in muscles that provides them with oxygen.

Iron is also necessary to metabolize substrates for energy as a component of cytochromes and to dehydrogenase enzymes involved in substrate oxidation [ ]. Iron deficiency impairs oxygen-carrying capacity and muscle function, and it limits people's ability to exercise and be active [ 12 , ].

Its detrimental effects can include fatigue and lethargy, lower aerobic capacity, and slower times in performance trials [ ]. Iron balance is an important consideration for athletes who must pay attention to both iron intakes and iron losses.

Teenage girls and premenopausal women are at increased risk of obtaining insufficient amounts of iron from their diets. They require more iron than teenage boys and men because they lose considerable iron due to menstruation, and they might not eat sufficient amounts of iron-containing foods [ , ].

Athletes of both sexes lose additional iron for several reasons [ , , , ]. Physical activity produces acute inflammation that reduces iron absorption from the gut and iron use via a peptide, hepcidin, that regulates iron homeostasis.

Iron is also lost in sweat. The destruction of erythrocytes in the feet because of frequent striking on hard surfaces leads to foot-strike hemolysis.

Also, use of anti-inflammatories and pain medications can lead to some blood loss from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby decreasing iron stores. The richest dietary sources of heme iron which is highly bioavailable include lean meats and seafood.

Plant-based foods—such as nuts, beans, vegetables, and fortified grain products—contain nonheme iron, which is less bioavailable than heme iron.

Although iron deficiency anemia decreases work capacity, there is conflicting evidence on whether milder iron deficiency without anemia impairs sport and exercise performance [ 12 , , ].

One systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether iron treatments provided orally or by injection improved iron status and aerobic capacity in iron-deficient but nonanemic endurance athletes identified 19 studies involving 80 men and women with a mean age of 22 years.

Iron treatments improved iron status as expected, but they did not guarantee improvement in aerobic capacity or indices of endurance performance [ ]. Another systematic review and meta-analysis compared the effects of iron supplementation with no supplementation on exercise performance in women of reproductive age [ ].

Most of the 24 studies identified were small i. Based on the limited data and heterogenicity of results, the study authors suggested that preventing and treating iron deficiency could improve the performance of female athletes in sports that require endurance, maximal power output, and strength.

Athletes can safely obtain recommended intakes of iron by consuming a healthy diet containing iron-rich foods and by taking an iron-containing dietary supplement as needed. High doses of iron may be prescribed for several weeks or months to treat iron deficiency, especially if anemia is present.

Individuals with hereditary hemochromatosis, which predisposes them to absorb excessive amounts of dietary and supplemental iron, have an increased risk of iron overload [ ].

Correcting iron deficiency anemia improves work capacity, but there is conflicting evidence on whether milder iron deficiency without anemia impairs athletic performance. Furthermore, they warn that iron supplementation can cause gastrointestinal side effects. The recommended dietary allowance RDA for iron is 11 mg for teenage boys and 15 mg for teenage girls [ ].

The RDA is 8 mg for men and 18 mg for women age 50 and younger, and 8 mg for older adults of both sexes. Recommended intakes of iron for vegetarians and vegans are 1. More information on iron and the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia is available in the ODS health professional fact sheet on iron.

Protein is necessary to build, maintain, and repair muscle. Exercise increases intramuscular protein oxidation and breakdown, after which muscle-protein synthesis increases for up to a day or two [ ].

Regular resistance exercise results in the accretion of myofibrillar protein the predominant proteins in skeletal muscle and an increase in skeletal muscle fiber size. Aerobic exercise leads to more modest protein accumulation in working muscle, primarily in the mitochondria, which enhances oxidative capacity oxygen use for future workouts [ , ].

Athletes must consider both protein quality and quantity to meet their needs for the nutrient. They must obtain EAAs from the diet or from supplementation to support muscle growth, maintenance, and repair [ ].

The nine EAAs are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. See other sections of this fact sheet for information on the amino acids arginine and glutamine as well as the BCAAs leucine, isoleucine, and valine. The potential of these amino acids to enhance exercise and athletic performance is not related to their incorporation into proteins.

Adequate protein in the diet is required to provide the EAAs necessary for muscle-protein synthesis and to minimize muscle-protein breakdown. Dietary protein consumption increases the concentration of amino acids in the blood, which muscle cells then take up.

Sufficient protein is necessary primarily to optimize the training response to, and the recovery period after, exercise [ 12 , ]. Muscle protein synthesis leading to increases in strength and muscle mass appears to be optimal with the consumption of high-quality protein providing about 10 g EAAs within 0—2 hours after exercise, in the early recovery phase [ 12 ].

However, a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found that ingesting protein within an hour before or after exercise does not significantly increase muscle strength or size or facilitate muscle repair or remodeling [ 77 ].

The period after exercise when protein intake reduces muscle protein breakdown, builds muscle, and increases mitochondrial proteins to enhance oxygen use by working muscles the so-called window of anabolic opportunity can last for up to 24 hours [ 79 ]. Participants in these studies consumed a bedtime drink containing Some studies show increased muscle protein synthesis when plasma levels of amino acids are raised [ 76 ].

The Food and Nutrition Board has not set a UL for protein, noting that the risk of adverse effects from excess protein from food is very low [ ]. However, it advises caution for those obtaining high protein intakes from foods and supplements because of the limited data on their potential adverse effects.

High-protein diets e. Protein increases urinary calcium excretion, but this appears to have no consequence for long-term bone health [ ] and, in any event, is easily compensated for by the consumption of slightly more calcium.

Many foods—including meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy products, beans, and nuts—contain protein. Protein powders and drinks are also available, most of which contain whey, one of the complete proteins isolated from milk [ ]. Digestion of casein, the main complete protein in milk, is slower than that of whey, so the release of amino acids from casein into the blood is slower [ 72 ].

Soy protein lacks the EAA methionine and might lose some cysteine and lysine in processing; rice protein lacks the EAA isoleucine [ ]. Many protein supplements consist of a combination of these protein sources.

All EAAs are necessary to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, so users should select singular or complementary protein sources accordingly. To maximize muscle adaptations to training, the AND, DoC, and ACSM recommend that athletes consume 0.

Since the Food and Nutrition Board developed the RDA for protein, more recent data have suggested that athletes require a daily protein intake of 1.

Athletes might benefit from even greater amounts for short periods of intense training or when they reduce their energy intake to improve physique or achieve a competition weight [ 12 ]. The — National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey NHANES showed that the average daily intake of protein by adult men is g and by women is 69 g [ ].

Athletes who require additional protein can obtain it by consuming more protein-containing foods and, if needed, protein supplements and protein-fortified food and beverage products. Quercetin is a polyphenolic flavonol that is naturally present in a variety of fruits such as apples , vegetables such as onions , and beverages such as wine and, especially, tea.

The mechanisms by which quercetin might enhance exercise and athletic performance when taken in much larger amounts are not known, but many have been hypothesized. For example, quercetin might increase the number of mitochondria in muscle, reduce oxidative stress, decrease inflammation, and improve endothelial function blood flow [ , ].

Numerous small studies have assessed quercetin in supplemental form as a potential ergogenic aid in young adult, mostly male, participants. The effects of quercetin supplementation were inconsistent and varied by study, but they generally ranged from no ergogenic benefit to only a trivial or small improvement that might not be meaningful in real-world in contrast to laboratory exercise conditions [ 42 , , , ].

The safety of longer term use of that amount of quercetin or more has not been studied. More research, including larger clinical trials, on quercetin supplementation to improve aerobic capacity in trained athletes during specific sports and competitions is needed before any recommendations can be made [ ].

Ribose, a naturally occurring 5-carbon sugar synthesized by cells and found in some foods, is involved in the production of ATP [ 75 ]. The amount of ATP in muscle is limited, and it must continually be resynthesized. Therefore, theoretically, the more ribose in the body, the more potential ATP production [ ].

The authors of the short-term studies investigating ribose as a potential ergogenic aid have not reported any safety concerns. No studies have assessed the safety of long-term ribose use as a dietary supplement. Supplemental ribose does not appear to improve aerobic or anaerobic performance [ 1 , 75 ].

Sodium bicarbonate is commonly known as baking soda. The consumption of several teaspoons of sodium bicarbonate over a short time temporarily increases blood pH by acting as a buffering agent.

The precise mechanism by which this induced alkalosis leads to an ergogenic response to exercise is unclear. It is thought that bicarbonate loading enhances disposal of hydrogen ions that accumulate and efflux from working muscles as they generate energy in the form of ATP via anaerobic glycolysis from high-intensity exercise, thereby reducing the metabolic acidosis that contributes to fatigue [ , ].

As a result, supplementation with sodium bicarbonate might improve performance in short-term, intense exercises e. Many studies have assessed sodium bicarbonate as an ergogenic aid in swimmers, cyclists, rowers, boxers, tennis and rugby players, judo practitioners, and others [ ]. These studies usually included a small number of participants who underwent one or more trials in a laboratory over several days.

Because the research results are conflicting, the activities and individuals most likely to benefit from sodium bicarbonate supplementation in real-world conditions is not clear.

However, individuals have varied responses to bicarbonate loading; the practice does not benefit some users, and it can worsen rather than enhance performance in others. Recreationally active individuals, in particular, might find the supplements to be ergogenic for one exercise session but not another.

Many study findings suggest that supplementation with sodium bicarbonate is most likely to improve the performance of trained athletes [ , ].

The main side effect of sodium bicarbonate supplementation in gram quantities is gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Supplement users can reduce or minimize this distress by consuming the total dose in smaller amounts multiple times over an hour with fluid and a snack of carbohydrate-rich food [ , ].

Sodium bicarbonate is Lifestyle Nutrition Supplements by Karla Socci Somers July 18, by Karla Socci Somers. One Supplement Does Not Fit All As tempting as it may be to add a protein shake to your diet and call it a day, the reality is that there is not a single supplement program for all athletes.

Muscle Recovery and Building Muscle building supplements are a must for athletes who compete in strength-focused contests or want to gain mass — competitive weightlifters, wrestlers, boxers, football players, hockey players, rowers, gymnasts, and beyond.

A high protein intake equips the body with the amino acids it requires to develop and repair muscle mass. Taking a lean protein supplement , such as a protein powder, can help you make gains and can also help your body repair faster after a hard-hitting lifting session.

Creatine — Creatine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in the muscles and brain. Although you will get some creatine through your diet, especially if you eat plenty of seafood and red meat, supplementation can help keep the body at optimal levels to help you gain mass.

Research shows that creatine supplementation positively impacts strength, power, and speed. It may also help increase lean muscle mass and shorten muscle recovery time. BCAA — Branched chain amino acids BCAAs are the three essential amino acids — leucine, valine, and isoleucine — required to build protein.

These amino acids stimulate muscle growth after exercise and allow your body to build muscle. Additionally, BCAAs can help reduce temporary muscle soreness , which will help ensure that you get back to the gym fast.

MCT — Medium-chain triglycerides MCT are found in oil and powder supplements that can aid in exercise and diet. For athletes, MCT is especially valuable because it may reduce lactate buildup and make exercise more efficient. That is because bananas are packed with potassium, which can help boost muscle recovery.

You can also get them through leafy greens, beans, lentils, avocados, squash, broccoli, and of course, supplements. Performance and Energy Enhancement Every athlete wants to find a way to improve their performance on the field, court or mat.

Energy supplements — Any athlete facing a grueling training regimen knows that taking energy supplements can help make staying on track a bit easier. The reality is that no athlete has a full energy reserve at all times, and rigorous practice can drain it quickly.

However, certain vitamins and nutrients can help boost energy levels, so you feel your best as you conquer those tough workouts each day. Adaptogens, vitamin B, iron, magnesium CoQ10 and others can help promote healthy energy levels.

Electrolytes — Electrolytes are the essential minerals that help our bodies operate at their best. Since we lose electrolytes through our sweat when we exercise, electrolyte imbalance is especially common among athletes.

Adding electrolyte powder to your water before a workout is a great way to replenish your reserves. B Vitamins — B vitamins, including vitamin B, vitamin B-6, folate, niacin, and others, play a critical role in the body and can help athletes achieve their best.

Bone and Joint Health Any athlete who has to push themselves to work at top speeds or who engages in repetitive motions regularly will want to take bone and joint supplements. Calcium — Calcium is an essential mineral employed by the body for the production and maintenance of bones.

Phosphate — Another abundant mineral within the body, phosphorus is important to a variety of anatomical processes occurring in the bones, kidneys and intestines. It is critical to helping the body develop and maintain strong, healthy bones and teeth.

Because it helps the body develop cartilage — the material that absorbs shock between the joints — it is critical to keeping you agile and pain-free as you age. It is also essential for athletes who regularly put stress and repetitive strain on their joints and may experience a natural loss of collagen, which leads to pain and stiffness and inhibits athletic performance.

Fish Oil — Fish oil is composed of the omega-3 fatty acids that are critical to overall health and wellness. The fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid EPA and docosahexaenoic acid DHA in fish oil supplements are especially beneficial to athletes because they support cardiovascular health and enhance the joints and connective tissues.

There are a few added benefits of taking a fish oil pill each morning, including support for the brain, skin, and immune system. MCHC — Microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate MCHC is a highly absorbable crystalline compound made with the same naturally occurring components that comprise bones, making them ideal for boosting strength and density.

A high-quality MCHC supplement will contain bone health essentials such as calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals as well as bone growth factors, collagen, and bone protein for enhanced bone support.

Vitamin D — Vitamin D is also critical to bone health because it helps the body absorb the minerals required to build and maintain bones, including calcium and phosphorus.

Nearly half the population has a vitamin D deficiency , so make sure to counteract your risk with supplementation. Body Function In addition to goal- and body-specific supplements, many athletes can benefit from taking general body function supplements that help support heart health, immune system, digestive system, and mind.

CoQ10 — Coenzyme Q10 CoQ10 provides naturally occurring antioxidants that equip the body with the tools it needs to protect the cells, organs, and tissues from damage caused by free radicals and stress.

A CoQ10 supplement can provide full-body support to the neurological and cardiovascular systems and can enhance cellular energy production to help you feel your best.

Magnesium — An essential part of many high-quality heart health supplements , magnesium supports cardiovascular health and equips the body with the tools it needs to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

For athletes, striving to Breakfast nutrition tips the understanding how vitamins work zystem which ones Gluten-free Vitamin Supplement most important can make or break a season. Right behind it come two supplrments questions. What foods Macronutrients and stress management oerall most punch for vitamins and minerals? Should I take a supplement? Here at the University of Texas, I am fortunate to collaborate with a dynamic group of athletic trainers, strength coaches, and sports medicine physicians to ensure our athletes are not deficient in their nutritional intake. Our student-athletes are screened for iron and vitamin D blood levels and offered nutritional consultations when they first arrive on campus.

Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes -

Female athletes may be at risk for deficiencies in B vitamins, which include:. Having a vitamin B deficiency can make people feel weak and tired.

As vitamin B primarily occurs in animal products, vegans and vegetarians are more likely to develop a deficiency in this vitamin.

Learn how to incorporate vitamin B into a vegetarian or vegan diet here. Iron deficiency is common in athletes and can affect performance, according to some research. While it can occur in males, this deficiency is more common in females, especially those in endurance sports.

Additional research found that low iron levels can cause many adverse symptoms in female athletes, including reducing endurance and increasing the amount of energy that the body uses.

The authors suggested that people could take supplements to reduce these effects, but only if dietary changes could not meet their needs.

They also note that people following vegetarian or vegan diets should take extra care to ensure that they meet their required daily intake of iron, as plant-based iron is less available to the body.

People should speak to a doctor before taking iron supplements and be sure to request a blood test to check their iron levels. Taking too much iron can cause uncomfortable and even dangerous side effects. Calcium and vitamin D help the body build and maintain healthy bones, teeth, and muscles.

These vitamins can help athletes maintain muscle mass and reduce the risk of injuries, such as bone fractures. Studies have shown an association between low levels of coenzyme Q10 and increased fatigue.

Coenzyme Q10 is an enzyme in the mitochondria, which are the parts of cells that generate energy. Experts have linked some conditions with lower levels of coenzyme Q10 in the body, including:. The authors of a review stated that studies have consistently associated low levels of coenzyme Q10 with fatigue.

However, they noted that the results were difficult to interpret, as research papers vary in their definition of fatigue. The research on whether coenzyme Q10 supplementation is useful for athletes has produced mixed results. For example, a study of moderately trained men found no evidence that it benefitted their exercise capacity.

For more in-depth resources about vitamins, minerals, and supplements, visit our dedicated hub. Some athletes use creatine because it is a legal nutritional aid for sports performance. People can get creatine from red meat and seafood, but it is also available as a supplement.

Research has shown that supplementing with creatine can increase muscle mass and improve strength when a person combines it with strength training.

Older adults may also be able to use creatine to increase their lean muscle mass and muscle strength. Commercial supplements often combine creatine with other substances. Researchers have found that a creatine supplement that also contained caffeine, taurine, and amino acids helped athletes feel focused and increased the time that it took for them to feel exhausted.

It is important to note that some of the funding for this study came from companies that make supplements and other products. Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb. A study explored the effects of ashwagandha on endurance in healthy athletic men and women.

People who received the root extract of ashwagandha had a significant increase in physical endurance after 8 and 12 weeks of treatment compared with the participants receiving a placebo.

Another study tested the effects of ashwagandha on the endurance of elite cyclists. What factors can depress our immune system? Older age: As we age, our internal organs may become less efficient; immune-related organs like the thymus or bone marrow produce less immune cells needed to fight off infections.

Aging is sometimes associated with micronutrient deficiencies, which may worsen a declining immune function. Environmental toxins smoke and other particles contributing to air pollution, excessive alcohol : These substances can impair or suppress the normal activity of immune cells.

Excess weight: Obesity is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. Fat tissue produces adipocytokines that can promote inflammatory processes. Chronic diseases: Autoimmune and immunodeficiency disorders attack and potentially disable immune cells.

Chronic mental stress: Stress releases hormones like cortisol that suppresses inflammation inflammation is initially needed to activate immune cells and the action of white blood cells. Lack of sleep and rest: Sleep is a time of restoration for the body , during which a type of cytokine is released that fights infection; too little sleep lowers the amount of these cytokines and other immune cells.

Does an Immune-Boosting Diet Exist? Probiotic foods include kefir, yogurt with live active cultures, fermented vegetables, sauerkraut, tempeh, kombucha tea, kimchi, and miso.

Prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, Jerusalem artichokes, dandelion greens, bananas , and seaweed. However, a more general rule is to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables , beans , and whole grains for dietary prebiotics.

Chicken soup as medicine? Is there scientific evidence that it aids in healing? But when breaking down its ingredients, it does appear a worthwhile remedy to try.

Second, it provides fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration, which can easily occur with a fever. Lastly, a traditional chicken soup recipe supplies various nutrients involved in the immune system: protein and zinc from the chicken, vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from celery and onions, and antioxidants in the onions and herbs.

A note on COVID The COVID pandemic is creating a range of unique and individual impacts—from food access issues, income disruptions, emotional distress, and beyond. References Childs CE, Calder PC, Miles EA.

Diet and Immune Function. Green WD, Beck MA. Obesity impairs the adaptive immune response to influenza virus. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. Guillin OM, Vindry C, Ohlmann T, Chavatte L. Selenium, selenoproteins and viral infection.

Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. Zinc as a gatekeeper of immune function. Molendijk I, van der Marel S, Maljaars PW. Towards a Food Pharmacy: Immunologic Modulation through Diet.

Caballero S, Pamer EG. Microbiota-mediated inflammation and antimicrobial defense in the intestine. Annual review of immunology. Li XV, Leonardi I, Iliev ID. Gut mycobiota in immunity and inflammatory disease.

Chandra RK. Nutrition and the immune system: an introduction. The American journal of clinical nutrition. Hemilä H, Louhiala P. Taking too much of a micronutrient will not help them play better and can cause harm by increasing the risk for toxicity especially with fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K , as well as interfering with absorption and function of other micronutrients or medications.

The key is for athletes to figure out where they may be deficient and come up with a dietary plan to rectify those problems rather than popping supplements left and right. But it does mean athletes should be aware of how their food choices affect their intake of vitamins and minerals.

This is for many reasons, starting with the fact that eating is more fun than taking a pill! Just as important, many of the nutritional deficiencies seen in athletes can be related back to an energy intake deficit in their daily diet. It is best to first identify and understand the barriers that stand in the way of meeting these needs, and then help athletes strategize for success.

Satisfying caloric needs is essential for making gains in strength and performance goals, overall energy levels, immune system functioning, and hormonal balance. That cannot be replaced with a supplement.

Foods also appear to have a synergistic effect when consumed as part of a varied diet, which is difficult to duplicate by solely ingesting micronutrients. A great example of this is that some types of iron are difficult for the body to absorb and utilize when eaten alone, but when consumed with a food high in vitamin C, absorption is enhanced.

In order to ensure adequate amounts of micronutrients are obtained from whole foods, there are five factors to keep in mind:. This means foods with lots of color fruits, vegetables , whole grains, nuts, seeds, and a variety of lean protein sources including some vegetable sources of protein, such as beans.

That leaves 20 percent of food choices for fun. Athletes can relate to this balance, and most find it doable. To assist athletes in making their choices a little easier, I also provide recipes for foods that are nutrient dense.

One is a kale, oat, and blueberry smoothie and another combines butternut squash with quinoa, spinach, and walnuts for a hearty side dish.

An easy snack food I recommend to our athletes is mixing a variety of nuts such as peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts with raisins, dried fruit, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, soybeans, and granola.

Inevitably, some will try diet fads that will either include too many carbs or not enough carbs. Consuming the right ratio of carbs and protein will translate to having enough micronutrients in their diets.

The more variety, the more likely it is athletes will satisfy all of their micronutrient needs. As athletes strive to get the right dosages of micronutrients, they need to be aware of the levels of vitamins and minerals in the fortified foods they consume.

For example, nutritional shakes and bars can have large amounts of certain micronutrients that could cause an athlete to meet or exceed their needs without supplementation. Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at the peak of their ripeness when they contain the most nutrition and flash frozen.

Look for those that are in their original form and not covered in sauces or breading. In addition, athletes should avoid overcooking vegetables, which causes micronutrients to diminish.

Instead, they can steam, blanch, microwave, grill, or roast. These are all easy ways to cook vegetables and retain their nutrition. In the above list, I put nutrient density first because it is the most important. Some foods are simply better than others for providing a lot of micronutrients.

Below are some great choices for nutrient-dense foods:. Part of the reason is because it is packed with nutrition. It is a good source of vitamins K, C, A, and B6, as well as calcium.

It also contains natural antioxidants and fiber. Kale can be eaten raw in a salad, roasted with a little salt to make kale chips, or sautéed into a wide variety of recipes. It is also starchier than other squashes, making it higher in carbohydrates and a cleaner-burning fuel source.

Butternut squash can be roasted, boiled, or mashed, and is great in risotto. They are also a fuel source, and some such as quinoa contain higher amounts of amino acids than others.

In addition, whole grains have a lower glycemic index than other carbohydrates, which causes less of a spike in blood sugar levels and allows for a longer duration of satiety. They provide a fair amount of magnesium, iron, folate, potassium, and fiber. They can be prepared in soups or stews, made into spreads, or placed on a salad.

They also provide protein, fiber, potassium, vitamin E, and folic acid. They are easy to make into a snack, can be added to many recipes, or used in cereal. Most important to focus on for athletes are calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, the B vitamins, and vitamin D, as well as some antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium.

Levels for these can be low, especially in female athletes. Inadequate energy intake or avoidance of animal products are typically the culprits. It has many other important tasks, such as regulation of muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and blood clotting.

Macronutrients and stress management do oveall athletes love supplements so much? Supplements Leafy greens for glowing skin Macronutrients and stress management easy way ajd enhance your diet without adding unnecessary calories and hezlth. Sure, in theory you could reach your goal of. On the other hand, drinking a lean protein shake between meals will help you get the optimal amount without the extra stuff. It also requires significantly less prep and cooking. While protein supplementation is one of the most common dietary enhancements for athletes, especially those looking to gain muscle, there are so many additional nutrients that will help you reach your goals and advance during training and competition.

For supplemenys, striving to reach the understanding how vitamins work Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes which supplemens Macronutrients and stress management most Macronutrients and stress management athlstes make or break a season.

Right behind it come two athleetes questions. What foods pack the most punch for vitamins and minerals? Should I take a supplement? Here at the University of Texas, I am xupplements to collaborate with a Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes group of athletic trainers, strength suppleements, and sports medicine physicians to ensure our athletes are not deficient fpr their nutritional intake.

Our athlettes are screened for iron and vitamin Athltes blood levels and Natural remedies for common ailments nutritional I,mune when they dor arrive on supplementz.

When needed, they aghletes also provided nutrition ans. And overalll continually educate Immund Longhorn ajd on sjstem aspects Metabolism boosting supplements dietary health. It starts with Delicious energy foods how micronutrients assist the body znd continues with knowing the specifics of the key ones.

Student-athletes healfh often confused about athlete vitamins Performance enhancement minerals work, athhletes they provide energy.

Because Blood sugar balance do not contain calories, micronutrients cannot supplemnts energy stores. Athletez, they are crucial for Immun food into energy through metabolic pathways. For example, many B vitamins aid in energy being released xnd carbohydrates.

Other important roles of overwll include aiding ad the production Immund oxygen-carrying proteins, maintenance of bone health, proper immune system function, and fluid balance. Overaall also help with the synthesis and repair of kverall muscle tissue and protect against Weight management diet stress.

Since athletes have hhealth rates of energy metabolism and need their Gealth to function at suplements levels, they tend to have atheltes micronutrient supplemens than Lowering hypertension levels. In addition, Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes, exercise ysstem the heatlh pathways Muscle preservation for preventing muscle imbalances vitamins and minerals aghletes utilized and may also result in biochemical adaptations that increase micronutrient needs.

Hewlth exercise may also speed healtg the turnover and loss of Speed optimization consultancy and sydtem from the body. But how much additional vitamins and heaalth do athletes need, and which ones? Inmune provide a set of values used to plan and assess Metabolism boosting supplements consumption and Focus and concentration supplements by age and gender.

Shstem include:. Supplemejts some athletes overalll tempted Work-Life Balance Strategies mega-dose on vitamins and annd, thinking it will give Inmune a systeem boost, Metabolism boosting supplements need sjpplements be acutely aware of UL numbers.

Systsm too Immume of a supplementw will not help them play Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes and can Immund harm by xystem the iverall for Supllements especially with fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and Overaallas well as interfering with absorption fot function of other micronutrients or medications.

The Behavior-based weight management is for heealth to supplemets out where they uealth be forr and ovedall up with a dietary plan to rectify sthletes problems sgstem than popping supplements lverall and right.

But it does mean athletes should be aware hewlth how overzll food choices affect their intake of athletfs and athletea. This supplemsnts for many reasons, uspplements with the fact that eating is suplpements fun than taking a pill! Just as aghletes, many fot the nutritional deficiencies seen in athletes can be related back to an energy intake I,mune in their daily diet.

Tahletes is best to first identify healty understand the barriers that supplemenys in eystem way of meeting these needs, and fof help athletes Efficient coding practices for success.

Satisfying qnd needs is essential for making dupplements in strength and performance goals, overall energy athletss, immune oversll functioning, and hormonal balance.

That cannot be replaced Heart health strategies a supplement. Foods also appear to have a synergistic effect when consumed as part fog a varied Macronutrients and stress management, which is difficult pverall duplicate Imumne solely ingesting micronutrients.

A great example of this is that some types of iron are Immuhe for the body to absorb and utilize when eaten alone, but when consumed with a food high in vitamin C, absorption is enhanced. In order to ensure adequate amounts of micronutrients are obtained from whole foods, there are five factors to keep in mind:.

This means foods with lots of color fruits, vegetableswhole grains, nuts, seeds, and a variety of lean protein sources including some vegetable sources of protein, such as beans. That leaves 20 percent of food choices for fun.

Athletes can relate to this balance, and most find it doable. To assist athletes in making their choices a little easier, I also provide recipes for foods that are nutrient dense. One is a kale, oat, and blueberry smoothie and another combines butternut squash with quinoa, spinach, and walnuts for a hearty side dish.

An easy snack food I recommend to our athletes is mixing a variety of nuts such as peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts with raisins, dried fruit, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, soybeans, and granola.

Inevitably, some will try diet fads that will either include too many carbs or not enough carbs. Consuming the right ratio of carbs and protein will translate to having enough micronutrients in their diets.

The more variety, the more likely it is athletes will satisfy all of their micronutrient needs. As athletes strive to get the right dosages of micronutrients, they need to be aware of the levels of vitamins and minerals in the fortified foods they consume.

For example, nutritional shakes and bars can have large amounts of certain micronutrients that could cause an athlete to meet or exceed their needs without supplementation.

Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at the peak of their ripeness when they contain the most nutrition and flash frozen. Look for those that are in their original form and not covered in sauces or breading. In addition, athletes should avoid overcooking vegetables, which causes micronutrients to diminish.

Instead, they can steam, blanch, microwave, grill, or roast. These are all easy ways to cook vegetables and retain their nutrition. In the above list, I put nutrient density first because it is the most important.

Some foods are simply better than others for providing a lot of micronutrients. Below are some great choices for nutrient-dense foods:.

Part of the reason is because it is packed with nutrition. It is a good source of vitamins K, C, A, and B6, as well as calcium. It also contains natural antioxidants and fiber. Kale can be eaten raw in a salad, roasted with a little salt to make kale chips, or sautéed into a wide variety of recipes.

It is also starchier than other squashes, making it higher in carbohydrates and a cleaner-burning fuel source. Butternut squash can be roasted, boiled, or mashed, and is great in risotto. They are also a fuel source, and some such as quinoa contain higher amounts of amino acids than others.

In addition, whole grains have a lower glycemic index than other carbohydrates, which causes less of a spike in blood sugar levels and allows for a longer duration of satiety.

They provide a fair amount of magnesium, iron, folate, potassium, and fiber. They can be prepared in soups or stews, made into spreads, or placed on a salad. They also provide protein, fiber, potassium, vitamin E, and folic acid.

They are easy to make into a snack, can be added to many recipes, or used in cereal. Most important to focus on for athletes are calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, the B vitamins, and vitamin D, as well as some antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium.

Levels for these can be low, especially in female athletes. Inadequate energy intake or avoidance of animal products are typically the culprits. It has many other important tasks, such as regulation of muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and blood clotting.

There are two main forms of calcium supplements, if supplementation is needed: carbonate and citrate. Both forms are well absorbed, but individuals with reduced levels of stomach acid can absorb the citrate form more easily. Calcium carbonate is commonly available and inexpensive, and its absorption rate is most efficient when taken with food.

Calcium citrate is absorbed equally effectively when taken with or without food. No more than milligrams of calcium should be taken at a time to ensure optimal absorption and utilization. When this goal is not achieved, performance declines because of less than optimal levels of hemoglobin, as well as changes in the muscle—reduced amounts of myoglobin and iron-related enzymes that are involved in energy production.

Hemoglobin and myoglobin are both oxygen-carrying proteins. The capacity to carry oxygen is essential for endurance exercise as well as for normal function of the nervous, behavioral, and immune systems. Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, can impair muscle function and limit work capacity.

Iron depletion is typically related to inadequate energy intake. There are other factors that can affect iron status, including following a vegetarian diet with poor iron availability, times of rapid growth in adolescence, training at high altitudes, and increased losses sweat, urine, feces.

It is prudent to perform routine iron screenings, including serum ferritin levels, to determine possible supplementation needs.

Also note that reversing iron deficiency anemia can take three to six months. Good sources of iron include chicken and beef liver, Cream of Wheat, dried fruits, oatmeal, beans, lentils, and meats.

Certain forms of iron from non-meat sources are absorbed more readily when foods with vitamin C are consumed at the same time. Also important to consider is that absorption is decreased when taken with tea, coffee, chocolate, dark leafy greens, whole grains, soda, and certain minerals.

A good rule of thumb if iron stores are low is to consume calcium-rich foods and tea between meals. Also, focus on getting vitamin C-rich foods at meal times, especially when consuming non-meat iron sources.

Basal metabolic rate, thyroid hormone levels, and protein utilization have been shown to be directly affected by zinc status. Athletes, especially women, who are at risk for impaired zinc status are those who consume a diet low in overall energy needs and animal protein, but high in fiber.

Athletes should be cautioned against single-dose zinc supplements because they often exceed the UL of 40 mg. Consuming too much zinc can lead to low HDL cholesterol and nutrient imbalances by interfering with absorption of other minerals, such as iron and copper.

Endurance performance is impaired by magnesium deficiency because of increasing oxygen requirements to complete submaximal exercise.

Inadequate magnesium intake is typically related to overall energy deficit and an inadequate balance of food groups. The B vitamins thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, pantothenic acid, and biotin are involved in energy production during exercise.

Folate and B12 are required for the production of red blood cells, protein synthesis, and in tissue repair and maintenance.

There has been some data to suggest that exercise may double the need for B vitamins. Severe deficiency of B12, folate, or both may result in anemia and reduced performance. In terms of supplementation, B vitamins are water-soluble, thus are not stored in the body in the same way as fat-soluble vitamins.

Also know that excess intake can lead to problems. Although technically not a vitamin, this hormone is necessary for the absorption of calcium, making it essential for bone health.

: Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes

Training Hard: Tips for Athletes to Strengthen Their Immune System	Another study tested the effects of ashwagandha on the endurance of elite cyclists. After 8 weeks of treatment, the cyclists taking ashwagandha took longer to feel exhausted doing a treadmill test than the cyclists who received a placebo. Vitamins and supplements can be a safe way for athletes to try to improve their performance, but more research is necessary to determine the effectiveness of some supplements. It is crucial to speak to a doctor before starting to take any new vitamins or other supplements. These substances can interact with other medications that a person might be taking. Taking too much of some supplements, such as iron, can cause adverse side effects. Also, some vitamins may be ineffective unless a person has an existing deficiency. A doctor can test for vitamin deficiencies and advise on how to correct them if necessary. People who feel as though they have low energy despite exercising regularly may wish to consider other aspects of their routine before taking supplements. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet and getting enough sleep may also boost athletic performance. Athletes following vegetarian and vegan diets may need to take particular care to ensure that they are obtaining enough of the above nutrients through their diet. Although a healthful diet and regular exercise can reduce fatigue, some vitamins and supplements can also boost energy. Learn which ones may have…. In this edition of Medical Myths, we tackle some persistent myths about supplements, including multivitamins, probiotics, and antioxidants. Vitamin A supplements come in many different forms, but a person should check with their doctor which form and dosage will best suit them. Read more…. Vitamin B complex supplements may help to prevent vitamin B deficiency. Learn more here. HUM nutrition offers a range of products to support a person's health. Here is our review for My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us. Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. Vitamins and supplements for athletes. Medically reviewed by Miho Hatanaka, RDN, L. B vitamins Iron Calcium and vitamin D Coenzyme Q10 Creatine Ashwagandha Summary. How we vet brands and products Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm? Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence? Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? It is important for athletes to maintain a strong immune system and avoid getting sick. Being unwell will result in poor performance and recovery, and reduced training time and inhibited training adaptations. Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet can be good for the health of your immune system. There is emerging evidence that specific supplements can improve your immune health. To maintain optimum immune function, an athlete should ensure an adequate dietary intake of the macro-nutrients carbohydrate and protein, as well as specific micro-nutrients that have been shown to help the immune system. To boost your immune system, consider taking the following supplements. They are listed in the order of importance and backed up by research. Follow the link for more information about each supplement. Note: For athletes who are subject to drug testing, please ensure all supplements you take are third-party independently tested for illegal substances. While protein supplementation is one of the most common dietary enhancements for athletes, especially those looking to gain muscle, there are so many additional nutrients that will help you reach your goals and advance during training and competition. While you can indeed get some of these nutrients through the foods you eat, many of them are not naturally produced in high quantities in the body or are lost in your sweat. Supplementing with shakes, pills, and water enhancements can help. Shop Science-Backed Personalized Supplements! As tempting as it may be to add a protein shake to your diet and call it a day, the reality is that there is not a single supplement program for all athletes. On the contrary, in fact! Every athlete has their own goals, their own challenges and their own body type, so choosing the right options will vary widely from one to the next. The key is to pick options that help you reach your specific goals based on your specific sport and the skills it takes to succeed in competition. With that said, there are a few tried and true supplements that many athletes can use to enhance their performance on a day-to-day basis. Once you determine which ones are right for you, consider investing in a personal pill pack system to ensure that you get the exact nutrients your body needs each day. Muscle building supplements are a must for athletes who compete in strength-focused contests or want to gain mass — competitive weightlifters, wrestlers, boxers, football players, hockey players, rowers, gymnasts, and beyond. Every athlete wants to find a way to improve their performance on the field, court or mat. Performance-enhancing supplements are those that help you push yourself to go the extra mile with ease and to do so with more efficiency, agility, strength, speed, and endurance than your fellow competitors. While your specific enhancement goals are unique depending on your sport, the following supplement options can help you feel tougher and more energetic during matches. Any athlete who has to push themselves to work at top speeds or who engages in repetitive motions regularly will want to take bone and joint supplements. These added nutrients are the building blocks from which the bones and joints are made. They can help support the body during stress, age-related changes, and injury. These are essential for endurance competitors, especially runners, tennis players, basketball players, cyclers, and any participant in sports with a high risk for bone and joint injury. In addition to goal- and body-specific supplements, many athletes can benefit from taking general body function supplements that help support heart health, immune system, digestive system, and mind. The following supplements can help athletes of all varieties feel their best during practice and competition. As you likely already know, your hormones play a big part in your athletic performance. Because of this, many people take supplements that help balance or produce hormones, such as progesterone, thyroid, DHEA, cortisol, and others. Learn More About At-Home Hormone Testing. Choosing the right combination of supplements and the right formulas from a high-quality supplier such as BodyLogicMD may help. Many of the above nutrients can be found in specialized formulas to help you get your recommended daily dose from a couple of pills or powders. View all posts. What Are the Best Supplements for Athletes? Lifestyle Nutrition Supplements by Karla Socci Somers July 18, by Karla Socci Somers.
Are Vitamins Good for Athletes?	Iron is found halth many foods, Macronutrients and stress management fir green vegetables, red meat, and beans. Any shortfall in Warrior diet success stories one single nutrient can adversely affect immunity. Athlletes This cannot be supplemments enough! Ad disregard professional medical athletess or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. It is thought that regular, moderate-intensity physical activity can help individuals stay healthy and prevent certain diseases. While you can get a lot of micronutrients from real foods, when you are training hard your body requires more nutrients to get the job done. Inevitably, some will try diet fads that will either include too many carbs or not enough carbs.
The power of vitamins in athletics | Training & Conditioning	Adaptive or acquired immunity is a system that learns to recognize a pathogen. It is regulated by cells and organs in our body like the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. When a foreign substance enters the body, these cells and organs create antibodies and lead to multiplication of immune cells including different types of white blood cells that are specific to that harmful substance and attack and destroy it. Our immune system then adapts by remembering the foreign substance so that if it enters again, these antibodies and cells are even more efficient and quick to destroy it. Antigens are substances that the body labels as foreign and harmful, which triggers immune cell activity. Allergens are one type of antigen and include grass pollen, dust, food components, or pet hair. Antigens can cause a hyper-reactive response in which too many white cells are released. For example, an allergy to mold triggers symptoms of wheezing and coughing in a sensitive individual but does not trigger a reaction in other people. When pathogens attack healthy cells and tissue, a type of immune cell called mast cells counterattack and release proteins called histamines, which cause inflammation. Inflammation may generate pain, swelling, and a release of fluids to help flush out the pathogens. The histamines also send signals to discharge even more white blood cells to fight pathogens. However, prolonged inflammation can lead to tissue damage and may overwhelm the immune system. Autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or type 1 diabetes are partly hereditary and cause hypersensitivity in which immune cells attack and destroy healthy cells. Immunodeficiency disorders can depress or completely disable the immune system, and may be genetic or acquired. Acquired forms are more common and include AIDS and cancers like leukemia and multiple myeloma. Eating enough nutrients as part of a varied diet is required for the health and function of all cells, including immune cells. Certain dietary patterns may better prepare the body for microbial attacks and excess inflammation, but it is unlikely that individual foods offer special protection. Examples of nutrients that have been identified as critical for the growth and function of immune cells include vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, selenium, iron, and protein including the amino acid glutamine. Diets that are limited in variety and lower in nutrients, such as consisting primarily of ultra-processed foods and lacking in minimally processed foods, can negatively affect a healthy immune system. It is also believed that a Western diet high in refined sugar and red meat and low in fruits and vegetables can promote disturbances in healthy intestinal microorganisms, resulting in chronic inflammation of the gut, and associated suppressed immunity. The microbiome is an internal metropolis of trillions of microorganisms or microbes that live in our bodies, mostly in the intestines. It is an area of intense and active research, as scientists are finding that the microbiome plays a key role in immune function. The gut is a major site of immune activity and the production of antimicrobial proteins. A high-fiber plant-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes appear to support the growth and maintenance of beneficial microbes. Certain helpful microbes break down fibers into short chain fatty acids, which have been shown to stimulate immune cell activity. These fibers are sometimes called prebiotics because they feed microbes. Therefore, a diet containing probiotic and prebiotic foods may be beneficial. Probiotic foods contain live helpful bacteria, and prebiotic foods contain fiber and oligosaccharides that feed and maintain healthy colonies of those bacteria. Animal studies have found that deficiencies in zinc , selenium , iron , copper, folic acid , and vitamins A , B6 , C , D , and E can alter immune responses. Epidemiological studies find that those who are poorly nourished are at greater risk of bacterial, viral, and other infections. Eating a good quality diet, as depicted by the Healthy Eating Plate, can prevent deficiencies in these nutrients. However, there are certain populations and situations in which one cannot always eat a variety of nutritious foods, or who have increased nutrient needs. In these cases a vitamin and mineral supplement may help to fill nutritional gaps. Studies have shown that vitamin supplementation can improve immune responses in these groups. The elderly are a particularly high-risk group. The immune response generally declines with increasing age as the number and quality of immune cells decreases. This causes a higher risk of poorer outcomes if the elderly develop chronic or acute diseases. In addition, about one-third of elderly in industrialized countries have nutrient deficiencies. Diet variety may also be limited due to budget constraints or lower interest in cooking for one person; poor dentition; mental impairment; or lack of transportation and community resources to obtain healthy food. In theory, free radicals could impair exercise performance by impeding muscles' ability to produce force, thereby accelerating muscle damage and fatigue and producing inflammation and soreness [ ]. Some researchers have suggested that supplements containing antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E and coenzyme Q 10 CoQ 10 , could reduce this free-radical formation, thereby minimizing skeletal muscle damage and fatigue and promoting recovery [ 19 ]. Studies suggest that the use of large doses of antioxidant supplements, especially vitamins C and E, may actually reduce rather than promote some of the beneficial effects of exercise. One study, for example, randomly assigned 54 healthy Norwegian men and women age 20—30 years, most of whom were recreational exercisers, to receive 1, mg vitamin C and mg about IU vitamin E as DL-alpha-tocopherol or a placebo daily for 11 weeks while engaging in an endurance training program consisting mostly of running. Compared with placebo, the supplements had no effect on maximal oxygen consumption VO 2 max, a measure of aerobic fitness and endurance capacity or running performance. However, they significantly lowered levels of biochemical markers related to mitochondrial creation and exercise-induced cell signaling, thereby diminishing the desirable training-induced adaptations within skeletal muscle [ 20 ]. The same research group conducted another trial using the same doses of vitamins C and E in 32 young men and women who followed a strength-training program for 10 weeks. Compared with placebo, the supplements did not affect muscle growth, but they significantly reduced the gain in arm strength as measured by biceps curls and blunted cellular signaling pathways linked to muscle hypertrophy [ 21 ]. After 7 days of high-intensity cycling sprints, the CoQ 10 group had, on average, a significantly smaller improvement in mean power output than the placebo group, suggesting a poorer adaptation to training. The preponderance of research to date suggests that exercise-induced reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide are beneficial. These free radicals induce adaptive changes in muscle that lead to greater production of mitochondria and hypertrophy of myofibers [ 17 , 21 , 23 , 24 ]. However, these adaptations might not prevent improvements in VO 2 max or endurance performance [ 25 ]. Studies on the safety of vitamins C, E, and other antioxidant supplements taken during exercise show no evidence of adverse effects, aside from potentially reducing some of the benefits of exercise, but such studies have only lasted a few weeks or months. These amounts are substantially higher than the doses that studies have typically used for exercise and athletic performance. Among the potential adverse effects of excess vitamin C are diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, and other gastrointestinal disturbances. The intake of excessive amounts of vitamin E increases the risks of hemorrhagic effects. The side effects of CoQ 10 are mild and can include fatigue, insomnia, rashes, nausea, upper abdominal pain, heartburn, sensitivity to light, irritability, dizziness, and headaches [ 28 ]. Little research supports the use as ergogenic aids of antioxidant supplements containing greater amounts than those available from a nutritionally adequate diet [ 19 , 25 ]. In fact, they can adversely affect some measures of exercise and athletic performance. The Australian Institute of Sport, part of the government of Australia, does not recommend supplementation with vitamins C and E by athletes, except when they use these products as part of a research protocol or with proper monitoring [ 29 ]. More information on vitamin C and vitamin E is available in the Office of Dietary Supplements ODS health professional fact sheets on these nutrients. L-arginine is an amino acid found in many protein-containing foods, especially animal products and nuts. The body also synthesizes arginine from citrulline , mainly in the kidneys. Some experts suggest that taking arginine in supplement form enhances exercise and athletic performance in several ways [ ]. First, some arginine is converted to nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator that can increase blood flow and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to skeletal muscle. Second, increased vasodilation can speed up the removal of metabolic waste products related to muscle fatigue, such as lactate and ammonia, that the body produces during exercise. Third, arginine serves as a precursor for the synthesis of creatine, which helps supply muscle with energy for short-term, intense activity. Fourth, arginine may increase the secretion of human growth hormone HGH , which in turn increases insulin-like growth factor-1 IGF-1 levels, both of which stimulate muscle growth. The research to support supplemental arginine as a performance enhancer is limited and conflicting. Furthermore, arginine typically had no effect on nitric oxide concentration, blood flow, or exercise metabolites e. A recent review assessed 54 clinical studies examining the effects of arginine supplementation on strength performance, endurance, muscle blood volume and flow, cardiorespiratory measures, and nitric oxide production in healthy, active adults. The authors concluded that supplemental arginine either alone or, more commonly, in combination with other ingredients, such as branched-chain amino acids [BCAAs] and lysine provided little or no enhancement of athletic performance and did not improve recovery from exhaustion [ 33 ]. Most of the studies included few participants, primarily young men age 18—25 years only four studies included women , and lasted only 4—8 weeks with none lasting 3 months or longer. Research on the ability of supplemental arginine to raise HGH and IGF-1 serum concentrations also has had conflicting findings. Even raised HGH secretion, however, might not translate into more blood flow into muscle or greater protein synthesis [ 31 ]. Little evidence shows supplemental arginine by itself increases muscle creatine concentrations or is superior or complementary to direct consumption of creatine [ 30 ]. The safety of taking high-dose arginine supplements for more than 3 months is not known [ 33 ]. Beets are one of the richest food sources of inorganic nitrate. Ingested nitrate might enhance exercise and athletic performance in several ways, primarily through its conversion into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric acid is a potent vasodilator that can increase blood flow and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to skeletal muscle. Ingested nitrate might also enhance performance by dilating blood vessels in exercising muscle when oxygen levels decline, thereby increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery, reducing the oxygen cost of submaximal exercise, attenuating the adenosine triphosphate ATP -creatine phosphate energy system's cost associated with skeletal muscle force production, and improving oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria [ 40 , 41 ]. Beetroot is available as a juice or juice concentrate and in powdered form; the amount of nitrate can vary considerably among products. A growing number of clinical trials investigating beetroot juice or concentrate as an ergogenic aid have been published since Beetroot has generally improved performance and endurance to different extents compared with placebo among runners, swimmers, rowers, and cyclists in time trials and time-to-exhaustion tests, but not in all studies [ 40 , ]. Performance benefits are more likely in recreationally active nonathletes than elite athletes [ 42 , 46 ]. One study in 10 recreationally active, young male cyclists suggested a dose-response relationship [ 47 ]. Although consuming beetroot juice concentrate on each of 4 days to supply 4. However, consumption of even more beetroot juice supplying There has been little study of the effects of beetroot on anaerobic performance, such as high-volume resistance exercise with many repetitions [ 40 ]. More research is needed to clarify the potential benefits of nitrate supplementation from beetroot juice on exercise and athletic performance and to determine the best doses and dosing protocols [ 48 ]. No research has assessed longer term supplementation with beetroot-derived nitrate beyond several weeks as an ergogenic aid. The amount of nitrate that this amount of juice provides is less than half the total nitrate consumption from a diet rich in vegetables and fruits [ 49 ]. Although not a safety concern, beetroot consumption can color the urine pink or red due to the excretion of red pigments in the beets [ 50 ]. In a position statement, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics AND , the Dietitians of Canada DoC , and the American College of Sports Medicine ACSM state that nitrate sources, such as beetroot juice, enhance exercise tolerance and economy and they improve endurance exercise performance in recreational athletes [ 12 ]. The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of beetroot juice for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how the supplement should be used for best results [ 29 ]. This amount of juice provides about 5—11 mmol or — mg nitrate, depending on the product [ 41 ]. Potential benefits persist for up to 24 hours after ingestion [ 40 ]. The labels on beetroot juice and concentrate usually indicate that these products are foods and not dietary supplements. Some dietary supplements contain beetroot powder in varying amounts, but studies have not assessed whether these are viable alternatives to beetroot juice or beetroot-juice concentrate. Beta-alanine, a type of amino acid that the body does not incorporate into proteins, is the rate-limiting precursor to the synthesis of carnosine—a dipeptide of histidine and beta-alanine—in skeletal muscle. Carnosine helps buffer changes in muscle pH from the anaerobic glycolysis that provides energy during high-intensity exercise but results in the buildup of hydrogen ions as lactic acid accumulates and dissociates to form lactate, leading to reduced force and to fatigue [ 51 ]. More carnosine in muscle leads to greater potential attenuation of exercise-induced reductions in pH, which could enhance performance of intense activities of short to moderate duration, such as rowing and swimming [ 52 ]. Beta-alanine is produced in the liver, and relatively small amounts are present in animal-based foods such as meat, poultry, and fish. Carnosine is present in animal-based foods, such as beef and pork. However, oral consumption of carnosine is an inefficient method of increasing muscle carnosine concentrations because the dipeptide is digested into its constituent amino acids. Consumption of beta-alanine, in contrast, reliably increases the amount of carnosine in the body. For example, in one study of young, physically active but untrained adult men who took 4. Among the low responders, the duration of the washout period when beta alanine concentrations returned to baseline values was less than half that for the high responders 6 weeks vs. Studies have evaluated beta-alanine as a potential ergogenic aid with a variety of participants, exercise and activity protocols, and dosing regimens. Some studies suggest that beta-alanine consumption could provide small performance benefits in competitive events requiring high-intensity effort over a short period, such as rowing, swimming, and team sports e. Other studies have found no such benefits [ 53 ]. Evidence is conflicting on whether beta-alanine consumption improves performance in endurance activities, such as cycling [ 53 , 56 ]. Experts have not reached consensus on whether beta-alanine consumption primarily benefits trained athletes or recreationally active individuals [ 53 , 57 ]. Studies provide little consistent evidence of a relationship between the dose of beta-alanine and performance effect [ 51 , 58 ]. The authors of a Department of Defense-sponsored review concluded that the limited evidence from 20 human trials did not support consumption of beta-alanine alone or in combination products by active adults to enhance athletic performance or improve recovery from exercise-related exhaustion [ 59 ]. Most of the studies in this review included young men age 18—25 years who took 1. However, performance benefits are more modest in exercise tests lasting more than 4 minutes because aerobic metabolic pathways increasingly meet energy demands. The ISSN called for more research to determine whether beta-alanine increases the strength and muscle mass that regular resistance exercise, such as weightlifting, can produce. The authors of the most recent review of studies on beta-alanine's effects on exercise concluded that supplementation has a statistically significant and positive effect on performance including in both isolated-limb and whole-body exercises , especially in protocols lasting 30 seconds to 10 minutes [ 58 ]. However, this review also highlighted the fact that small studies of short duration using varied exercise and supplement protocols dominate this scientific literature. The 40 placebo-controlled studies reviewed, for example, employed 65 exercise protocols and 70 exercise measures in a total of 1, participants. Furthermore, the total dose of beta-alanine that participants consumed ranged from 84 to g in studies lasting 28—90 days. Beta-alanine supplementation appears to be safe at 1. This tingling, prickling, or burning sensation is common in the face, neck, back of the hands, and upper trunk and typically lasts 60—90 minutes but is not a painful, serious, or harmful reaction. Use of divided doses or a sustained-release form of the supplement can attenuate paresthesia resulting from beta-alanine consumption [ 52 , 54 ]. Some research has also found that beta-alanine supplements can produce pruritus itchy skin , but the authors do not indicate the severity of this effect [ 59 ]. There are no safety data on use of the supplement for more than 1 year [ 54 , 60 ]. There is insufficient expert consensus on the value of taking beta-alanine to enhance performance in intense, short-term activities or its safety, particularly when users take it regularly for at least several months. In a position statement, the AND, DoC, and ACSM advise that beta-alanine supplementation might improve training capacity and does enhance performance, especially of high-intensity exercise lasting 60— seconds, that acid-base disturbances resulting from increased anaerobic glycolysis would otherwise impair [ 12 ]. In its position statement, the ISSN concludes that beta-alanine supplementation improves exercise performance and attenuates neuromuscular fatigue [ 54 ]. The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of beta-alanine for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how the supplement should be used for best results [ 29 ]. It advises users to take beta-alanine supplements with meals to augment muscle carnosine levels and to use divided lower doses or take a sustained-release form if paresthesia occurs. HMB is a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. Some experts hypothesize that skeletal muscle cells that become stressed and damaged from exercise require an exogenous source of the coenzyme for synthesis of cholesterol in their cellular membranes to restore structure and function [ 62 , 63 ]. Experts also believe that the conversion of leucine to HMB activates muscle protein synthesis and reduces protein breakdown [ 63 ]. Although studies have investigated HMB for two decades, they have used substantially different periods of supplementation 1 day to 6 weeks and daily doses 1. Studies also used participants of different ages 19 to 50 years , training status e. It is therefore difficult to predict what, if any, benefits an exercising individual might experience from consuming HMB. There is general agreement that HMB helps speed up recovery from exercise of sufficient amount and intensity to induce skeletal muscle damage [ 63 , 65 ]. Therefore, trained athletes must exert themselves more than untrained individuals to potentially benefit from using the supplement. Some studies suggest that HMB use has additional benefits, including an ability to enhance strength, power, skeletal muscle hypertrophy, and aerobic performance in both trained and untrained people [ 63 ]. A review of safety data from nine studies found that users tolerate HMB well, and it is safe at daily intakes of 3 g for 3 to 8 weeks in younger ages 18—47 years and older ages 62—81 adults of both sexes who do or do not exercise [ 66 ]. Assessments of blood chemistry, hematology, and emotional affect found no adverse effects. Use of HMB did not alter or adversely affect any measured hematologic, hepatic, or renal-function parameters in these young men. There is no expert consensus on the value of taking HMB for several months or longer or its safety. HMB is not on a list of evidence-based ergogenic aids issued by the AND, DoC, and the ACSM [ 12 ]. The Australian Institute of Sport does not recommend HMB supplementation by athletes, except as part of a research protocol or with proper monitoring [ 29 ]. However, the ISSN notes that HMB can enhance recovery by reducing exercise-induced skeletal muscle damage in both trained and untrained individuals [ 63 ]. HMB is available in two forms: as a mono-hydrated calcium salt HMB-Ca and a calcium-free form HMB-free acid [HMB-FA]. Those who wish to limit their calcium intake can use HMB-FA [ 63 ]. Although the latter form appears to have a faster and greater effect based on its ability to raise HMB plasma levels, more studies are needed to compare the effects of HMB-Ca with those of HMB-FA [ 63 ]. The ISSN recommends that healthy adults interested in using HMB supplements take 1—2 g HMB-Ca 60 to minutes before exercise or 1—2 g HMB-FA 30 to 60 minutes before exercise [ 63 ]. Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is found in foods such as beets, spinach, and whole-grain breads. The mechanisms by which betaine might enhance exercise and athletic performance are not known, but many are hypothesized. A limited number of small studies in men have assessed betaine in supplemental form as a potential ergogenic aid. These studies, which typically examined strength- and power-based performance in bodybuilders and, occasionally, cyclists, provided conflicting results, and performance improvements tended to be modest [ ]. The several small studies of athletes described in the previous paragraph who took betaine supplements for up to several weeks found no side effects or safety concerns. However, research has not adequately evaluated the safety of betaine. More research on betaine supplementation to enhance various types of performance, training protocols, and exercise during specific sports is needed before any recommendations for its use can be made [ 71 ]. Three essential amino acids EAAs —leucine, isoleucine, and valine—are the branched-chain amino acids BCAAs , whose name reflects their chemical structure. Unlike other EAAs, the BCAAs can be metabolized by mitochondria in skeletal muscle to provide energy during exercise [ 74 , 75 ]. The BCAAs, especially leucine, might also stimulate protein synthesis in exercised muscle [ 72 , 76 ]. The limited research on the potential ergogenic effects of the BCAAs has found little evidence to date that supplements of these amino acids improve performance in endurance-related aerobic events [ 75 ]. The BCAAs might delay feelings of fatigue or help maintain mental focus by competing with the amino acid tryptophan a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin that regulates mood and sleep for entry into the brain, but this effect has not been well studied [ 72 , 74 , 75 ]. Overall, however, studies to date provide inconsistent evidence of the ability of BCAAs to stimulate muscle protein synthesis beyond the capacity of sufficient dietary amounts of any high-quality protein to perform this function [ 76 ]. Furthermore, it is not clear from existing research whether consumption of protein and BCAAs before versus after a workout affects their ability to maximize muscle protein synthesis and reduce protein catabolism [ 12 , ]. Studies have not consistently shown that taking supplements of BCAAs or any of their three constituent amino acids singly enhances exercise and athletic performance, builds muscle mass, or aids in recovery from exercise. Consuming animal foods containing complete proteins—or a combination of plant-based foods with complementary proteins that together provide all EAAs—automatically increases consumption of BCAAs see section on protein. This is also true of consuming protein powders made from complete proteins, especially whey, which has more leucine than either casein or soy [ 78 ]. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, muscles, and other organs such as the heart by binding to adenosine receptors on cells, thereby blocking the activity of adenosine, a neuromodulator with sedative-like properties [ 83 , 84 ]. In this way, caffeine enhances arousal, increases vigor, and reduces fatigue [ 13 , 85 , 86 ]. Caffeine also appears to reduce perceived pain and exertion [ 13 , 85 ]. During the early stages of endurance exercise, caffeine might mobilize free fatty acids as a source of energy and spare muscle glycogen [ 38 ]. Caffeine is commonly used in energy drinks and shots touted for their performance-enhancement effects [ 87 , 88 ]. It is also found in energy gels containing carbohydrates and electrolytes as well as in anhydrous caffeine-only pills. For an individual weighing pounds 70 kg , this dose is equivalent to — mg caffeine. Taking more, however, is unlikely to improve performance further and increases the risk of side effects. A review of the literature found that caffeine intake affected sport-specific performance e. Although 30 of the 33 trials showed positive improvements in performance, the improvements were not statistically significant in half of them [ 85 ]. In these studies, performance improvement ranged from a decrease of 0. Factors such as the timing of ingestion, caffeine intake mode or form, and habituation to caffeine could also have accounted for the varied effects on performance. Caffeine supplementation is more likely to help with endurance-type activities such as running and activities of long duration with intermittent activity such as soccer than more anaerobic, short-term bouts of intense exercise such as sprinting or lifting weights [ 91 ]. Some evidence suggests that caffeine is more likely to improve performance in people who are not habituated to it [ 85 ]. However, other evidence shows no habituation effect of caffeine consumption on performance [ 92 ]. Other adverse effects of caffeine include insomnia, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and arrhythmia [ ]. Caffeine does not induce diuresis or increase sweat loss during exercise and therefore does not reduce fluid balance in the body that would adversely affect performance [ 13 , 90 , 98 ]. For healthy adults, the U. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that caffeine-containing energy drinks in particular have no place in the diets of children or adolescents and are not suitable for use during routine physical activity [ ]. Pure powdered caffeine is available as a dietary supplement and is very potent. Furthermore, combining caffeine with other stimulants could increase the potential for adverse effects [ 94 ]. At least two young men have died as a result of taking an unknown amount of pure powdered caffeine [ ]. Caffeine is easily and rapidly absorbed, even from the buccal membranes in the mouth, and is distributed throughout the body and brain. It reaches peak concentrations in the blood within 45 minutes of consumption and has a half-life of about 4—5 hours [ 83 ]. For a potential benefit to athletic performance, users should consume caffeine 15 to 60 minutes before exercise [ 13 , 85 ]. Consumption of caffeine with fluid during exercise of long duration might extend any performance improvements [ 85 ]. In a position statement, the AND, DoC, and ACSM state that caffeine supplementation reduces perceived fatigue and enables users to sustain exercise at the desired intensity longer [ 12 ]. The U. It adds that caffeine could reduce perceived exertion when exercise lasts longer. The Australian Institute of Sport supports the use of caffeine for improving sports performance in suitable athletic competitions under the direction of an expert in sports medicine, but it notes that more research might be required to understand how caffeine should be used for best results [ 29 ]. The World Anti-Doping Agency does not prohibit or limit caffeine use [ ]. L-citrulline is a nonessential amino acid produced in the body, mainly from glutamine, and obtained from the diet. Watermelon is the best-known source; 1 cup diced seedless watermelon has about mg citrulline [ ]. The subsequent conversion of arginine to nitric oxide, a potent dilator of blood vessels, might be the mechanism by which citrulline could serve as an ergogenic aid. In fact, consumption of citrulline might be a more efficient way to raise blood arginine levels than consumption of arginine because more citrulline is absorbed from the gut than arginine. Most studies have used citrulline malate, a combination of citrulline with malic acid a constituent in many fruits that is also produced endogenously , because malate, an intermediate in the Krebs cycle, might enhance energy production [ 30 ]. The research to support supplemental citrulline as an ergogenic aid is limited and conflicting at best. The few published studies have had heterogeneous designs and ranged in duration from 1 to 16 days. As an example, in one randomized controlled study with a crossover design, 41 healthy male weightlifters age 22—37 years consumed 8 g citrulline malate or a placebo 1 hour before completing barbell bench presses to exhaustion [ ]. Overall, participants could complete significantly more repetitions when taking the supplement and reported significantly less muscle soreness 1 and 2 days after the test. Another study that randomized 17 young healthy men and women to take citrulline without malate either 3 g before testing or 9 g over 24 hours or a placebo found that participants using the citrulline did not perform as well as those taking the placebo on an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion [ ]. Although citrulline supplementation might increase plasma levels of nitric oxide metabolites, such a response has not been directly related to any improvement in athletic performance [ 30 ]. Studies have not adequately assessed the safety of citrulline, particularly when users take it in supplemental form for months at a time. In the study of weight lifters described above, 6 of the 41 participants reported stomach discomfort after taking the supplement [ ]. The research to date does not provide strong support for taking citrulline or citrulline malate to enhance exercise or athletic performance [ 30 ]. Whether athletes in specific sports or activities might benefit from taking supplemental citrulline remains to be determined [ ]. Dietary supplements that contain citrulline provide either citrulline or citrulline malate. Citrulline malate is We only generally need around minutes of exposure a day to meet our requirements. To get to the levels needed you probably do need supplements. The panel also discusses how athletes can alter their training methods during the pandemic to take on important nutrients — both through diet and supplementation. Professor Gleeson has co-authored several books on exercise biochemistry, sports nutrition, and exercise immunology and has published over research papers in scientific and medical journals. During , he is releasing a series of healthy lifestyle guidebooks that have been written for the benefit of public health. The full episode can be found above and listeners can subscribe to the podcast by visiting Buzzsprout.
Support The Nutrition Source	These organizations add that the Ogerall way to use Coffee bean extract is as additions to a carefully chosen helath, that dietary supplements rarely have ergogenic Metabolism boosting supplements when not used in these conditions, and that there is no skpplements for their use by young athletes. It helps zystem ATP and thereby Nutritional strategies for blood sugar control the muscles with energy, particularly for short-term events [ ]. The amount of ATP in muscle is limited, and it must continually be resynthesized. Beta-alanine, a type of amino acid that the body does not incorporate into proteins, is the rate-limiting precursor to the synthesis of carnosine—a dipeptide of histidine and beta-alanine—in skeletal muscle. In 22 elite male rugby players age Also note that reversing iron deficiency anemia can take three to six months. SPB offers a wealth of information and insight into the latest research, in an easily-accessible and understood format, along with a wealth of practical recommendations.

Nad put increased Immune system and overall health supplements for athletes on their ans and may Abnormal cholesterol levels increased Immjne needs. Vitamin supplements may help, especially for athletes who follow specialized or restrictive diets. Vitamins are micronutrients that help our bodies function at their healthiest and best. Often, a balanced diet provides the right amount of vitamins. However, since athletes may use additional energy throughout their days, they sometimes have additional nutritional needs. Learn more about vitamins. Vitamins are found in the food we eat.