The Analysis of Dietary Supplements

The Analysis of Dietary Supplements

Theses are just a few of the varieties:

Creatine: Our bodies naturally make the compound, which is used to

supply energy to our muscles. It is produced in the liver, pancreas,

and kidneys, and is transported to the body’s muscles through the

bloodstream. Creatine is 100% natural and occurs naturally in many

foods; therefore, it can never be banned from any sports or

international competitions (unless they banned eating meat). Many

foods especially herring, salmon, tuna, and beef contain some

creatine, but the supplemented variety comes in the form of creatine

monohydrate. Creatine is considered a safe supplement, and has been

shown to increase strength performance.

Caffeine: Caffeine is a mild stimulant that occurs naturally in at

least 63 plant species. It consists of a xanthine molecule with three

methyl groups attached to it. Caffeine has many specific benefits for

different types of athletes, and can improve the athlete’s endurance

in sports where long-term stamina is needed. Caffeine stimulates the

Central Nervous System at high levels, like the medulla and cortex,

and even has the ability to reach the spinal cord in larger doses.

Caffeine enters the body and forces the working muscles to utilize as

much fat as possible. The International Olympic Committee (IOC)

presently lists caffeine as a banned substance. It is difficult to

believe that a substance consumed by over 75% of Americans everyday

could cause international sport controversy. Studies have shown that

blood pressure is increased with the consumption of caffeine, but

nothing conclusive. Side effects include sleep deprivation, nausea,

cramping, anxiety, fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal

instability, and for athletes effects include muscle tightness, muscle

cramping, and dehydration.

Performance Drinks: There is a wide variety of performance drinks that

are geared for different types of athletic enhancement, their uses

include, maintaining hydration, electrolyte balance, glucose and

glycogen levels, and alertness. Performance drinks include such

ingredients as maltodextrin, creatine, protein, caffeine, sodium,

potassium, vitamins and minerals. Many different factors will

determine how well a sports performance will work in an athlete such