Supplements...Whatchya Takin'?

Julie L.
on 4/19/13 4:57 am, edited 4/19/13 5:10 am - Montreal, Canada

VSG on 11/08/12

Keith, you should look into maybe adding BCAAs pre-workout for their muscle sparing effect. I mean obviously if we're eating at a deficit we need all the help we can get to hold on to our precious precious muscle.

Here's some info that may help:

The BCAAs are leucine, isoleucine, and valine. The name "branched-chain amino acids" is derived from the structure of these compounds. Each one has a forked outcropping that looks a bit like a branch, hence the name branched chain amino acids..The three BCAAs are incredibly essential and actually fall into the category of essential amino acids. Essential amino acids are amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own and therefore must get adequate amounts through dietary sources. In fact, even though there are about 20 amino acids that the muscles use for growth, the BCAAs comprise roughly a third of the aminos within muscle tissue. So if muscle growth is your goal BCAAs are a must.

BCAAs should also be used as a supplement during any fat loss plan because of the muscle preserving effects. On any calorie restricted plan muscle tissue loss is a serious concern that must be addressed. All of the positive effects that BCAAs have on muscle growth will also serve to protect muscle during periods of calorie restriction. It is always important to remember that anything which builds muscle will also preserve muscle.

blah blah blah, more here: http://www.muscleandstrength.com/expert-guides/bcaas

I also take 1200-1500mg of Calcium citrate, 1000mcg of B12 every other day, 50mg of Zinc (since my vitamin A levels were low and Zinc helps metabolize it), 1mg of folic acid every other day, and 4 Flintstones vitamins, probably going to switch to the GNC Ultra Mega with iron when I'm done my bottle since I don't seem to have the gag reflex on bigger pills anymore. Thinking of adding in fish oil caps but worried about the extra calories, I know they're very healthy but maybe I'll wait few more months, thoughts?

Edit: Oh, also L-glutamine post workout on weight lifting days

Keith L.
on 4/19/13 3:22 pm - Navarre, FL

VSG on 09/28/12

I think the extra calories from fish oil is worth it. I use Mega Red Krill Oil. Smell a bit fish but kinda chocolate in your mouth. I also take VitaCosts Stawberry Banana Flax Seed Oil. Taste really good.

PI have been considering BCAA for a while now just need to research the how and hen. Thanks or the link.