During the interview, Hirad spoke about a few supplements he took during his training. He named off Glutamine, BCAA, Omega 3,6, and 9, and CLA. I was curious to what exactly they were and here is what I found out.
Glutamine is shown useful in treatment of serious illnesses, injury, trauma, burns but is commonly used for muscle growth in weightlifting, bodybuilding, endurance and other sports. Glutamine is highly demanded throughout the body and is used in the gut and immune system extensively to maintain optimal performance.
Research suggests that after an intense workout, glutamine levels in the body are reduced by as much as 50 per cent. This drop can rob the muscles of glutamine stored in the muscle cells as the immune system and other tissues use Glutamine as fuel. Glutamine supplements can minimize the breakdown of muscle tissue, improve protein metabolism and keep your immune system strong.
BCAA, Branched chain amino acid supplements are not as widely used as other supplements like creatine and Protein powder. The BCAAs include the three indispensable amino acids valine, leucine and isoleucine, which make up one-third of muscle protein. BCAA’s, are among the most beneficial and effective vitamins for any serious athlete, bodybuilder, or physically active persons. It helps with building and repairing tissues, prevention of muscle catabolism, promotes protein synthesis, fuels workouts and produce chemicals that facilitate our brains to function at full capability
Omega 3, 6, and 9 - Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are incorporated into every cell of the body, and are key structural, metabolic, and regulatory components of cells. EFAs restore energy, help us digest our foods, transport nutrients throughout the cells, contribute toward healthy hormone balance, and help us to maintain healthy blood lipid levels. EFAs must be consumed through diet as the body is unable to manufacture them. They improve and regulate cellular function, reduce inflammation, modulate immune response, optimize health and wellbeing, and help prevent chronic disease.
Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) - CLA is also known for its body weight management properties, which include reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass. The reports I have been reading do not favour this supplement. Over 30 clinical studies have been published investigating the effect of CLA on weight management. A meta-analysis conducted in 2007 concluded that CLA has a small impact on fat mass.
In July 2008, CLA received a no objection letter from the FDA and receive Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for certain food categories, including fluid milk, yogurt, meal replacement shakes, nutritional bars, fruit juices and soy milk.
What types of nutrients/supplements do you like to take during your training?
