Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement – ZMA
ZMA is a scientifically designed anabolic mineral formula containing zinc monomethionine aspartate, magnesium aspartate and vitamin B-6. Studies have shown that it has a clinical effect on testosterone levels when taken in a combination containing 30 mg of zinc and 450 mg of magnesium per day. The most famous study conducted by Lorrie Brilla at Western Washington University indicated that this combination could raise testosterone levels by as much as 30%.
Bodybuilders can obviously benefit from taking ZMA, specifically in the following ways:
1. It increases the body’s natural production of testosterone thus boosting its capacity for building lean muscle.
2. It increases levels of growth hormone.
3. It helps sleep if taken 30-60 minutes before bed thus enhancing rest and recovery.
ZMA has no known side effects but it must be taken in the proper dosage to the exact proportions used in most studies – that is 11 mg of vitamin B-6, 450 mg of magnesium and 30 mg of zinc.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.
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Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement – Ecdysterone
Ecdysterone is a powerful compound that can help to maximise your genetic potential to build muscle. It exists in the herbs Rhaponticium and Cyanatis Vaga. Although it has been known about for many years the expense associated with its extraction meant it was not viable for commercial production. Recent advancements in extraction technology, through in-vitrio cultivation, have made wholesale production possible.
Ecdysterone has been subjected to over 50 studies with the following major findings:
1. It increases lean muscle mass.
2. It increases endurance.
3. It stimulates metabolism.
4. It decreases blood sugar levels.
5. It reduces fatty tissue.
6. It prevents loss of muscle mass and promotes growth of muscle fibers.
7. It is suitable for both men and women and has no known side effects.
Ecdysterone seems to create a kind muscle building environment in the body by maintaining a positive nitrogen balance and by increasing protein synthesis. The recommended dose for Ecdysterone is 80-120 mg per day although dosages of up to 600 mg per day can be safely taken.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.
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Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement – L-Arginine
Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body cannot make naturally. It is found in nuts, seeds, chocolate and raisins.
Arginine is used by the body in the execution of many important physiological processes including hormone secretion, output of growth hormone, removal of toxins from the body and enhancement of the immune system. It is also a precursor of nitric oxide which vasodiolates vessels in the body. For this reason arginine is often used to treat conditions such as angina, high blood pressure, cardiac disease, sexual dysfunction and infertility. Recent research has also highlighted arginine’s ability to scavenge free radicals, remove bad cholesterol, enhance fat metabolism and regulate salt levels.
There are several reasons why arginine appeals to bodybuilders:
1. It prevents the retention of water under the skin thus minimizing bloating and helping to create a ripped appearance.
2. It helps the body to retain nitrogen that is essential to the muscle building process.
3. Its vasodilating abilities support muscle growth.
4. It enhances protein synthesis.
5. It helps to boost the immune system allowing harder training and minimizing the minor illnesses that come from overtraining.
With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer’s instructions should be followed in all instances.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.
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