With everyone focusing on their health, we’re also getting to hear about dietary supplements which improve our health or build our bodies and we’re probably consuming them without knowing their uses or side effects as well. There are many young athletes who want to excel at their respective sport but most of them haven’t mastered the art of proper eating behaviors to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Influenced by peers, social media or ads which claim incredible effects, there are many people who are turning to these dietary supplements. 

What Are Dietary Supplements? 

Nutritional or dietary  supplements are basically taken to meet our nutritional requirements. These include: 

• Whey Protein 
• Casein 
• BCAA (Brand Chain Amino Acid) 
• L-Arginine 

1. Whey Protein
Whey is essentially a milk protein consisting of essential amino acids which are absorbed quickly by the body. It is one of the safest proteins out there and can be used by beginners as well as bodybuilders. It’s purpose is to fulfill your daily protein requirement whether you workout or don’t. It promotes lean muscle mass growth and helps with muscle protein synthesis. Just ensure that you buy it from authentic sources because of adulteration and avoid any variants which have added sugars. If your purpose is to lose weight, start with a weight training regime along with whey protein consumption. Ideal time to consume whey is within 15 mins after your workout.

2. Creatine
It is an amino acid found in the muscle cells which is responsible for producing energy through the anaerobic pathway. It boosts power, helps improve strength, increase lean muscle mass and helps the muscle recover more quickly during exercise. There should be a good intake of water and the person must follow a proper diet for creatine to be absorbed by the body. Creatine supplements should not be taken along with food. Creatine doesn’t give instant effect and it should be taken in regular cycles. This is not for everyone though. Avoid using it if you’re a beginner as your muscle density isn’t built as much as an intermediate or advanced level bodybuilder. It should be taken post your workout within 20-30 minutes. Please note that too much creatine can harm your body so use it in moderation.  

3. BCAA
BCAA are a group of 3 essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. They increase protein synthesis and muscle growth, reduce fatigue, reduce tiredness after exercising, prevent muscle loss, rapidly absorbed by the body and provide additional fuel for working muscles.

The ideal time to consume BCAA is during exercises when sports drinks/carbohydrates are not required. It can be mixed with water and consumed.

4. L-Arginine
It is needed in the synthesis of most of the proteins and hence it helps increase muscle mass. In simpler terms, it expands your blood vessels, allowing more blood flow to reach your muscles which help you get a good pump during your workout. It’s great as a pre-workout supplement as it supports your body during workouts. A bodybuilder, strength or endurance athlete can take L-Arginine. The ideal time to consume L-Arginine is 30 minutes before a workout.  

All of the above supplements are readily available on the GOQii Health Store – within the GOQii App. Remember that supplements cannot replace proper meals. So follow a proper diet and back it up with dietary supplements depending on your goal. We hope this article helps you! For more on fitness and nutrition, check out Healthy Reads or tune in to LIVE sessions by experts on GOQii Play. 

#BeTheForce