The truth about using bodybuilding supplements

February 1, 2012 • By Piers Rim '12  
Filed under Features

            Many look down on body building supplements thinking that they’re unnecessary. I’m here to refute any students that agree with that sentiment.

            People must understand that by definition, supplement means to reinforce or support something as a whole. It’s an aiding factor that doesn’t have as much of an impact as some may believe.

            Granted there are some supplements on the shelves that are pure lies like fat burners that claim to help consumers lose a surreal amount of weight in a ridiculous time frame. There are some that are quite unhealthy to consume as well, such as pro-hormones which manipulate the testosterone-estrogen ratio in means of production within the consumer’s body. Besides the extremes, however, supplements, specifically body building supplements, are pretty popular among the people of the nation.

            Supplements give people confidence. They give people the chance to try their best at something because of their own mentality. Not only that, but supplements may help them in far more superior, physiological ways. An example of such a supplement is protein.

            Protein is a practical investment in regards to fitness. It can come in a variety of ways to consume. There are protein bars, shakes, and dietary pills.

A cycle, or the period of time it takes to completely finish a container of supplements, of protein usually costs $15-40 depending on what kind you’re looking to buy.

            The most commonly used formulaic protein, which is basically artificial protein synthesized with other minerals, is whey protein. Normally taken post-workout, whey protein can be bought cheaply without the worry of it not working. Taken properly (adhering to the proper serving arrangement and timeframe in which to take it), whey will always help with ridding of soreness, expediting muscle repair, and with adding that extra muscle mass needed to get stronger.

            Another kind of protein some may decide to take, although not as popular as whey protein, is casein protein. Because casein protein has a slower released half-life, it normally takes longer to take effect, usually around 6-8 hours. People that take casein protein usually take it before going to bed so that their muscles are nourished with protein throughout their sleep.

            For those that follow a very strict vegan or vegetarian diet, there is also a vegetable protein. These supplements focus around the protein found in soy products and in vegan products like beans or nuts. The gains aren’t quite as significant, but the overall product is effective in respect to its source of protein.

            Many people nowadays attend some sort of a gym or a similar establishment. These people most likely take some sort of formulaic protein. The reason is because protein has virtually no side effects that appear to be harmful and has many things to be gained from using it.       

            Protein boosts the process of muscle recovery, which in turn allows you to feel less painful after your workout sessions. Not only that, but it could also help those that wish to bulk up in muscle mass to do exactly that. Full of calories and various proteins, formulaic protein is a must-have for those that choose to be active in the gym or other sports.

            Consequently, there are side effects that some people experience, but not all. Side effects include mild acne, bloating and mild stomach pains.

            In the end, though, supplements are meant only to supplement. A common misconception people have about supplements is that some people believe that the supplements, whether it be protein, creatine, ribose or nitric-oxide supplements, will do all of the work. This isn’t true.

            Natural efforts must be made in order to give reason for the supplements to do its job. That means that proper diet, exercising routine, and much sleep is critically necessary.

            In light of this, try to step out of your comfort zone and experiment. Supplements may help you reach that “dream body” or maybe just add more self confidence and focus to your daily lifestyle.

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