Supplements and Protein Drinks

There are a vast number of supplements available for bodybuilders, and it's no wonder that they become confused by what they should use and what they shouldn't. Some manufacturer's make wild claims about their products ability to increase muscle and bulk, but you should be aware that there are no regulations in place to guarantee the safety or purity of a product sold as a supplement. Supplements are not required to meet the same safety standards of a prescription drug for instance and no requirement is needed to prove the effectiveness of any health claims the product makes.

That's not to say that none of them work. Some studies have shown that certain products may do what the advertising claims. However some products may only leave you lighter in the wallet instead of giving you the benefits that the advertising promises.

Athletes may use them because:

• They have concerns over their diet providing enough nutrients.
• They believe that optimum nutrition can't be achieved by diet alone.

Supplements include the following:

• Herbs
• Amino Acids
• Vitamins
• Minerals

Most body builder's use them thinking they are the magic ingredient that is guaranteed to give them the added muscle and strength they require. We'll take a look at some of the weight gain supplements and make you aware of some facts.

• Some herbal supplements may have side-effects.
• Because a product claims to be "Natural" it doesn't make it safe.
• Would modifying your diet give you the same results without using supplements?

Protein Drinks

As with supplements there are many protein drinks available too. They come in all kinds of flavours. Despite there being many different brands there are basically two main types of protein drinks. Weight gain drinks which have a lot of carbohydrates and calories and are used by people who want to gain weight and size. The other which is high in protein with only a little carbohydrate is used to increase lean muscle mass with less calories.

There are three main types of protein drink:

Whey protein - Which we've already mentioned and has the same benefits as the supplement.

Egg - Which comes from the egg white.

Soy - Which is derived from soybeans.

You should read the labels of these drinks to find out which one best suits your needs.

Finally, remember that supplements should be used as an addition to a healthy balanced diet and have no effect if used as your only source of protein.