Most Important Supplements for Bodybuilding

If you open a bodybuilding magazine, you will get overwhelmed with the numerous advertisements for supplements for bodybuilding on practically every page. This can confuse you and leave you puzzled as to which pre workout supplement & post workout supplement you should be taking to boost muscle strength, gain muscle mass and get rid of the fat. Most advertisements are sales gimmicks and have no hard scientific facts to back them. This does not mean that there are no good supplements. There are and these supplements can help you improve your performance during workouts and do wonders for your physique.

Important Supplements for Bodybuilding

Whey ProteinA research study published in 2006 in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism states that taking whey protein on a daily basis helps to improve muscle strength and facilitates growth of muscles. In this particular study, participants, who were bodybuilder, were given whey protein every day for a period of 10 weeks. It was found that compared to another group of participants, who were put solely on creatine, this particular group demonstrated improved muscle strength and lost more of their body fat.

Conjugated Linoleic AcidAlso known as CLA, conjugated linoleic acid is naturally present in flaxseeds and dairy products, such as yogurt. This supplement is considered to be one of the most important supplements for bodybuilding. It helps to enhance strength and muscle mass more than what is possible by just doing strength training. It is advisable to take this supplement along with creatine monohydrate for best results.

Creatine MonohydrateOut of all the supplements for bodybuilding, creatine monohydrate is the most popular among bodybuilders. During resistance training, muscles lose energy and this supplement helps the muscles to regenerate that lost energy. Taking around 5g of creatine monohydrate on a daily basis can help build up strength. You can enhance the absorption of this supplement by consuming foods high in carbohydrates, such as oatmeal or natural fruit juices.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty AcidsAfter a workout, a bodybuilder often experience muscle soreness. This can be alleviated with Omega-3 essential fatty acids. According to a research published in the May 2006 edition of the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, it is best to take around 2g of Omega-3 essential fatty acids every day to help fight soreness of muscles. Besides combating muscle soreness, it also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and reduce the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Beta-hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyric Acid (HMB)HMB is created as a byproduct when leucine, which is an amino acid, is naturally metabolized by the body. It is responsible for repairing any damage the muscles experience due to every day physical exertion. This supplement should be part of your bodybuilding arsenal, as it helps to increase muscle strength and mass. The main task of the supplement is to protect muscles from damage, which can hinder their growth.

In Conclusion…While regular resistance training and eating a healthy diet are important for bodybuilding, using certain supplements for bodybuilding can enhance the results. Choosing supplements wisely can help you gain muscle mass, build muscle strength and reduce body fat.