To supplement or not to supplement that is the question on more bodybuilders lips than ever before. Are they safe? What works and what doesn’t?
Lets have a look at the basics.
There are various reasons why athletes may be interested in supplementation.
Concern about getting adequate nutrients from our food supply.
Suspicion of pharmaceuticals.
Belief that diet alone will not achieve optimal nutrition
Supplements include the following:
Vitamins
Minerals
Amino Acids
Herbs
The concerning thing about supplements is that anything classified as a dietary supplement is not required to meet any FDA or other standards! Think about that! there are no regulations in place that guarantee the safety or purity of something sold as a supplement.
They are also not made to meet the similar safety requirements as prescription drugs or any other manufacturing standards. They are not required to meet product potency or purity ratings and are not required to prove the effectiveness of any health claim that is made.
Studies suggest that a...