Monthly Archive for December 2009

 
 

Can L-Carnitine supplements be beneficial?

01. December 2009 • Category: Nutrition • Comments: 0

Carnitine is classified as a nitrogen containing amine, not actually an amino acid. It is very important in helping to transport long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria for fuel, although it is one of the bodies non-essential amino acids, meaning the body can make it.
As I am into fitness and running, and I wanted to research the benefits of taking Carnitine as a supplement. I have taken 500mg of L-carnitine daily for about one year and definitely feel a difference, and feel sure it can be beneficial for endurance training.
The muscles, including the heart, kidneys and the liver all depend on fatty acids for fuel.
Carnitine helps to carry the fatty acids, together with acetyl CoA, to the mitochondria to be oxidized. In many studies it has been suggested that Carnitine can help prevent the build up of fatty acids thus minimizing the risk of heart disease.  Excess Carnitine is excreted via the kidneys and but can be reabsorbed. In studies according to the office of dietary supplements, they found that Carnitine can be an aid to weight loss and that it can in fact help improve athletic performance.
According to Dan Gastelu. MS, MFS and Dr Hatfield. PhD, Carnitine supplementation has been proven beneficial in improving VO2 max, and improving anaerobic strength. It also reduces lactate levels during exercise. So strength and endurance athletes can benefit from Carnitine supplementation.
It is found to be well tolerated in the body and has no real toxicity effects. The supplemental dosage can be anywhere from 500mg-4000mg daily. Although athletes have been known to Carnitine load one week prior to competition taking up to 5grams.
Carnitine is found in red meat, fish, poultry, soybeans (fermented), wheat, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter.
Studies are being performed to determine the benefits of supplementing L Carnitine and Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, micronutrient research for optimum health, studies have shown that Carnitine levels decrease with age and that Carnitine supplementation can be helpful in improving memory, decreasing oxidative stress and a number of age related factors.
Although more research is planned for longer term effects.

Mangoes

01. December 2009 • Category: Nutrition • Comments: 0

One mango provides over a day’s dose of vitamin C, two thirds of the recommended amount of vitamin A, and nearly half the recommended amount of vitamin E, and a quarter of your fiber, potassium, iron, and nicotinic acid for the day.

Mangoes are also a powerful source of antioxidants, and they also have medicinal values.
In traditional Indian medicine the bark is given for diarrhea and the fruit is given for high blood pressure.

They are recommended for circulatory and fatigue.

Orange Mango Fool.
2 Ripe mangoes
2/3 cup of plain yogurt
Juice of two oranges
(Grated zest for decoration).

Mix and blend ingredients together in a blender or food processor and chill.

Mangoes.

One mango provides over a day’s dose of vitamin C, two thirds of the recommended amount of vitamin A, and nearly half the recommended amount of vitamin E, and a quarter of your fiber, potassium, iron, and nicotinic acid for the day.

Mangoes are also a powerful source of antioxidants, and they also have medicinal values.

In traditional Indian medicine the bark is given for diarrhea and the fruit is given for high blood pressure.

They are recommended for circulatory and fatigue.

Orange Mango Fool.

2 Ripe mangoes

2/3 cup of plain yogurt

Juice of two oranges

(Grated zest for decoration).

Mix and blend ingredients together in a blender or food processor and chill.

DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)

01. December 2009 • Category: Training • Comments: 0

If you are subject to DOMS, perform a low resistance activity, a gentle workout without weights and stretch, to improve blood flow and tightening. To help prevent DOMS try to replenish muscles at least 30 minutes after workouts with protein and carbohydrates, the carbohydrates help the body to absorb the protein better, and the protein repairs and rebuilds. Also soft tissue massage can loosen up tight muscles up to 30% and reduce swelling. DOMS is a normal response, and is part of the adaptation process, which leads to greater stamina and strength. It is quite common for those beginning a new exercise program. Any movement that your body is not used to can lead to DOMS. Another way to help to prevent DOMS: always warm up thoroughly before working out, and perform a light cool down exercise.

Stay Strong.