The Good and The Bad in Bodybuilding Supplements

Bodybuilding supplements like those offered by MusclePharm, Vital Strength, Scivation, and Mutated Nation are very popular among athletes and body builders alike. This is no surprise considering the various benefits offered by taking such health products. Despite the different advantages, however, there are also reported side effects of investing in such workout products. Here's a short list of the good and the bad in bodybuilding supplements.

Caffeine, being a common ingredient in many workout supplements, has a lot of benefits. This ingredient can improve one's focus and concentration during workouts. Overdosage of caffeine, however, can increase heart palpitations and nervousness. There are also reports linking caffeine overdose to diarrhea and dehydration.

Creatine, another popular supplement ingredient, has a lot of advantages to offer. Because of the quick burst of energy it can provide, body builders using it can increase their lean muscle mass growth through continuous and regular exercise. Creatine is also helpful in repairing worn out tissues after an intense workout, helping athletes gain back energy through quick nourishment fix. One particular side effect commonly known about creatine, though, is its tendency to cause occasional dehydration.

Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that has an important role in different biochemical processes in the body. Apart from acting mainly as the metabolic fuel for our immune system, glutamine is also known to provide athletes with more immunity against the bad effects of intense training, helping them easily recover after a tiring physical activity. Despite the said advantages, common side effects linked to glutamine usage are upset stomach, nausea, and lack of focus.

A natural body compound in humans, nitric oxide is helpful in improving muscle growth by replenishing nutrient nourishment of the skeletal muscles. Overuse of supplements containing nitric oxide, however, has been linked to several side effects like nausea, increased heart palpitations, and migraine.