Supplements especially designed for athletes as well as fitness fanatics are now getting better and better, thanks to advances in medical research. Popular supplements for sports and fitness are widely available. But before buying anything, acquaint yourself first with how these kinds of supplements work and whether they can help you improve your game or not.
Here is a list of the popular supplements for sports and fitness classified according to their use:
1. Supplements for muscular protection and maintenance
Examples of these are antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals which can damage muscle tissues and cause soreness. Calcium can prevent muscle cramps while both chromium and CLA strengthens and enlarges muscles. Eucalyptus, gamma oryzanol, HMB, magnesium, methoxyisoflavone, OKG, and vitamin E are also for muscle protection and improvement.
2. Supplements for reducing body fat
Some of the most popular supplements for sports and fitness that help reduce body fats are arginine, chromium, and CLA. DHEA, HMB, and pyruvate may also help.
3. Supplements for temporary relief from pain and pain reduction
Bromelain can reduce pain of sprains and strains while arnica not only reduces pain but also accelerates healing. Cayenne can provide temporary relief from arthritis and rheumatic pain.
Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamin reduce pain in the joints. HMB, ribose, vitamin C, and zinc are other examples of popular supplements for sports and fitness that you should consider.
4. Supplements for boosting endurance
The branch-chained amino acids (BCAAs) are examples of popular supplements for sports and fitness that can boost endurance. Coenzyme Q10 also has the same function as it plays a major role in metabolism. Creatine, eleuthero, gamma oryzanol, ginseng (American and Asian), guaraná, HMB, iron, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), phosphorus, pyruvate, and yohimbe are other supplements that boost endurance.
5. Supplements for boosting the immune system
A strong immune system is vital in the success of an athlete. Examples of popular supplements for sports and fitness that boost the immune system are glutamine, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc.
6. Increase strength
Popular supplements for sports and fitness that increase strength include cordyceps and octaconsanol. When combined with arginine, ornithine can also boost strength.
Reminder
Dietary supplements, whether for athletic use or regular consumption, are not regulated by U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). In order to ensure the safety of the supplement you will be taking, be sure to buy only from pharmaceutical GMP-compliant manufacturers.