Supplements are often used in athletically challenging situations to help the body recover after training and maximize the desired physical qualities. Bodybuilding, like any other sport, has its own set of commonly used supplements. Some years ago, bodybuilders used to use steroids which were damaging the body, but the modern, “natural bodybuilders” use only natural supplements that are not harmful if used appropriately.
Basically there are various supplement groups; the vitamins and minerals, protein supplements, amino acids, glutamine, creatine, weight loss products and testosterone boosters.

Vitamins and Minerals for Bodybuilding

A good multi-vitamin supplement will most likely cover all you need, but let’s take a closer look at how specifically they aid bodybuilders. Vitamin A is important for cell strength and reproduction, Vitamin B is necessary to metabolize protein and makes the blood “work better”, Calcium is necessary for muscle contraction and blood vessel contraction and expansion, Chromium is a trace element which is critical in the production of insulin, CoQ10 is one of the basic building blocks for cells, Vitamin C is necessary for protecting the ligaments, Vitamin D is necessary for strong bones and Vitamin E is necessary for its anti-oxidants which prevent aging.

Essential Fatty Acids are Not Just for the Brain

The most used Fatty Acids are the Omega 3 and the Omega 6. They are commonly used to boost brain functionality, however, they are also very useful as bodybuilding supplements because they enhance fat loss by increasing insulin sensitivity and have an anti-catabolic effect on the muscles. The most popular sources of Essential Fatty Acids are flaxseed oil and fish oil. You can make you own Omega 3 “supplement”  with organic bran flakes, hemp protein powder and a tablespoon of flaxseed. Add just enough milk to cover the dry ingredients and blend until it had become a paste. Add more milk until the shake is of the desired density.
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