10 Supplements for Success

Natural Supplements

One of the major questions I get asked immediatly by a lot of my new clients is what suppliments to take. Now I tend to stray away from a lot of the more absurd stuff you see on TV, thats not what im talking about. Instead, I am refering to vitamins suppliments and the like that can help you stimulate muscle growth and remain healthy. With this in mind, I would like to bring to your attention the following supplements, all of which are natural and from the from the Amazon Rain forest.

The products contain all natural ingredients and are for a range of different things, including but not limited to:

  • Increase energy level and endurance
  • Cardiovascular support
  • Mood elevation
  • Support of a healthy immune system
  • Assistance in proper digestive and metabolic function

I have been using Warrior, which is for performance/energy and the Power shake. The Zamu drink is great for well being and mindset/ immune system. Check into your specific needs and match it to the product. For eg; Metabazon for those wishing to lose weight etc.

For more information about the products, please go to www.peaceonelove.amazonherb.net or ask me for recommendations based on your individual needs.

There are thousands of supplements on my shelf, but only a few are worthwhile. They generally fall  into three categories:

  1. Anti-aging
  2. Feel good/Immune System
  3. Muscle increasing/Weight reduction

L’Arginine/L’Ornithine

They promote and release growth hormone and act as a secregoge. They set the clock back to as if you were in your 30′s. Better metabolism, skin, hair, immune system, sex drive, and in general make you feel great.

Calcium and Magnesium

Calcium and Magnesium are well known for their tranquilizing effects and deficiencies of either may produce muscle spasms and cramps, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, lack of or restless sleep, and physical fatigue. Both L-Theanine and Valerian are well documented to support the formation of GABA, which influences the levels of two other neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, producing the key relaxation effect.

Dhea

Dhea is produced in the adrenal glands from pregnenolone and eventually converted into testosterone, estrogen, and estradiol. The marked reduction in the formation of DHEA by the adrenals during aging, even before the age of 50 years, results in a dramatic fall in the formation of active sex steroids in peripheral target tissues – a situation which is thought to be associated with a long series of age-related decreases such as insulin resistance, obesity, loss of muscle mass, and decreases in bone and cardiovascular health. DHEA supplementation has shown an ability to return blood levels to those enjoyed in your earlier years. DHEA in appropriate replacement doses appears to have remedial effects with respect to its ability to induce an anabolic growth factor, increase muscle strength and lean body mass, support immune health, and enhance quality of life in aging men and women.
Goal: Build Muscle – L-Glutamine

L-Glutamine

L-Glutamine is the most abundant “free” amino acid in the body. It is found in higher concentration that other amino acids in vital tissues including the brain, intestinal mucosa cells, immune cells, skeletal and smooth muscle. In muscle, the concentration of free glutamine appears to influence whether muscle will be broken down or build up. The reason is that when the catabolic hormone cortisol attaches to its receptor, it stimulates an enzyme called, GLUTAMINE SYNTHETASE, to break down muscle tissue to release glutamine. The end result is that you lose muscle mass. Maintaining high blood levels of glutamine inactivates glutamine synthetase so your body does not tear down muscle tissue.
Goal: Feel Good and Lose Weight

Chromium

Chromium is an essential nutrient involved in the normal metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins as stated by the authoritative RDA. When not present in adequate amounts, dietary deficiencies of chromium may lead to improper glucose metabolism. This is significant because many complications with glucose metabolism are often the result of cellular resistance to insulin, which is often associated with chromium deficiency. Unfortunately, all chromium is not created equal. With its extraordinary benefits of glucose, fat and protein metabolism, chromium has been reported to increase lean body mass and decrease body fat. Current research also suggests that chromium supplementation may be beneficial for cardiovascular health by balancing cholesterol levels. Other studies have indicated that chromium supplementation increases HDL cholesterol, thus countering the effects of increased LDL and decreased HDL cholesterol, therefore, supporting cardiovascular health.

Glucosamine Sulfate

Glucosamine Sulfate, a compound containing both glucosamine and sulfur, is found in and around the tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. Glucosamine, synthesized from the amino acid glutamine and glucose, is one of the building blocks of connective tissue. Glucosamine acts as the foundation for cartilage compounds known as glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. Recent studies have indicated that the clinical utility of oral glucosamine in conditions of joint pain may reflect increased synthesis of cartilage proteoglycans. The sulfur component is necessary for the production of the disulfide bonds that are responsible for the rigidity and strength of connective tissue. Many European studies have shown that GS supplementation can accelerate regeneration and the repair of cartilage. The results of several large studies showed significant pain reduction and improved joint mobility after supplementing with GS daily.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is and extract from the cultivated leaves of the Ginkgo tree. Research has shown ginkgo’s unique ability to increase blood flow and its strong antioxidant properties (which exert a protective influence over the brain and cognition). Current clinical investigations are revealing potential benefits of ginkgo for enhancing sexual function by increasing blood flow to all extremities. Extensive research has also noted that the active ingredients in ginkgo biloba are a class of compounds known as ginkgolides. Of this class, ginkgolide B, referred to in many investigations as BN52021, is the most researched ginkgolide and has shown to be the most therapeutic. All ginkgo formulas must have adequate levels of ginkgolide B in order to successfully increase cerebral blood flow. In Europe and Asia, ginkgo and more specifically, ginkgolide B, has been shown to enhance cerebral and cardiovascular circulation. With improved circulation, the researchers have observed a positive effect on memory and cognitive function. The outcome of studies on patients concerning cardiovascular health exhibited similar positive results. This ability to increase blood flow has brought attention to ginkgo’s potential role in supporting adequate respiratory, gastrointestinal and dermatological health. The value of taking ginkgo is well documented. Based on experimental studies, the higher the percentage of ginkgolide B, the more effective the ginkgo.

5-hydroxytryptophan

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is synthesized from typtophan and is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is found in the brain, blood platelets and cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Since the FDA restricts the availability of tryptophan, many research scientists have discovered that 5-HTP compares favorably in modulating serotonin levels. In studies on sleep deprivation, 5-HTP supplementation exhibited promising results. Early research studies show that supplementing with 5-HTP can increase availability of serotonin, which can increase production of melatonin. Raising melatonin concentrations has shown to have positive effects on sleep patterns. Finally, in a six-week clinical study, subjects that supplemented with 5-HTP were able to reduce carbohydrate intake, which contributed significantly to support weight management.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is an herbal extract that has been used in European clinics for years. Many therapeutic attributes have been discussed regarding this plant, but its application in mood and sense of well-being has been well studied. Years of clinical research have investigated its benefits in supporting a sense of well-being.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-Lipoic Acid or thiotic acid is an antioxidant that is produced naturally in the body. It functions as a co-factor for a number of important enzymes responsible for the conversion of our food to energy (ATP). However, we still need to get most of our lipoic acid from our diet or from supplements. In nature, lipoic acid is found in the leaves of some plants and in red meat. Unlike other antioxidants, lipoic acid is both fat and water-soluble and is easily absorbed and transported across cell membranes. This unique quality offers protection against free radicals both inside and outside the cell while other antioxidants only provide extracellular protection. Recent research has shown alpha-lipoic acid to be an efficient free radical scavenger. With its capabilities as a precursor to glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid has shown to support overall health. Lipoic acid has the ability to regenerate other antioxidants like vitamin E, vitamin C, and GSH for further use after they have eradicated free radicals. Numerous clinical trials have shown the benefits of supplementing with lipoic acid for supporting blood glucose metabolism, cardiovascular, eye and liver health. Individuals with inadequate glucose metabolism often have a serious problem with glycation. This is caused by higher than normal levels of blood sugar due to low insulin production or insulin resistance. Glycation happens when blood sugar reacts quickly and spontaneously with proteins to form damaging cross-linking. This cross-linking causes severe tissue damage and leads to decreased kidney, eye, and cardiovascular health. Lipoic acid curtails glycation and enhances the transfer of blood sugar into the cells by stimulating insulin activity. One of the more severs complications of high blood glucose is reduced circulation to the lower extremities. Studies show that patients suffering from poor blood glucose metabolism improved significantly wen they supplemented with 600mg of lipoic acid.

-Nicholas
If you are in the Los Angeles area and you would like a complimentary one-on-one assessment with Personal Trainer in L.A. Nicholas Barrett, please don't hesitate to get in touch! Personal trainer Los Angeles. Los Angeles personal trainer. Personal trainer marina del rey.