Dietary supplements

Iron absorption tricks for athletes: enhancers and inhibitors in real meals

Iron Absorption Tricks for Athletes: Enhancers and Inhibitors in Real Meals Athletes, especially endurance athletes, require sufficient iron to support optimal performance and overall health. Iron is a critical mineral that plays a key role in oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function. However, many athletes, particularly females and vegetarians, may struggle to meet their …

Dietary supplements

Allergy season training: quercetin timing and antihistamine-aware fueling

Spring brings warmer weather and blooming flowers, but for many, it also signals the start of allergy season. Allergy sufferers often struggle with symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes due to the body’s immune response to allergens like pollen. However, with proper training and nutrition strategies, individuals can better manage their allergies during …

Dietary supplements

Asthma inhalers + pre-workouts: timing and interaction basics

Introduction: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. People with asthma often use inhalers to manage their symptoms and improve their lung function. On the other hand, pre-workout supplements are popular among fitness enthusiasts for enhancing exercise performance. However, there are concerns regarding the timing of asthma inhaler use in …

Dietary supplements

Blood pressure meds and stimulants: what athletes must know

Introduction: Athletes often face the dilemma of managing medical conditions while striving for peak performance. One common concern is the interaction between blood pressure medications and stimulants. Understanding how these medications can impact athletic performance is crucial for athletes to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Effects of Blood Pressure Medications on Athletes: …

Dietary supplements

SSRIs/SNRIs and supplement stacks: safe pairings and red flags

Introduction: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed medications for treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and panic disorders. While these medications are effective in managing symptoms for many individuals, some may seek to enhance their effects or alleviate side effects through supplement stacks. Understanding the …

Dietary supplements

Pre-workout for ADHD meds users: focus without overstimulation

Introduction: ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects millions of individuals worldwide, impacting their ability to concentrate, stay organized, and manage tasks effectively. Many people with ADHD rely on medication to help manage symptoms and improve focus. However, some individuals may experience overstimulation or side effects from ADHD medications. This has led to the exploration of pre-workout supplements …

Dietary supplements

Caffeine alternatives for anxiety-prone lifters: theobromine, theanine-first builds

Caffeine Alternatives for Anxiety-Prone Lifters Anxiety is a common issue faced by many individuals, and for those who are fitness enthusiasts or weightlifters, finding suitable alternatives to caffeine can be crucial. Caffeine, known for its stimulating effects, may exacerbate anxiety symptoms in some people. In this article, we will delve into two promising alternatives for …

Dietary supplements

Sodium acetate and other salts in fuels: taste, GI, and science

Introduction: Sodium acetate is a commonly used salt in various industries, including as an additive in fuels. Salts like sodium acetate play a crucial role in fuel formulations, affecting taste, gastrointestinal (GI) response, and overall combustion efficiency. Understanding the science behind salts in fuels is essential for optimizing performance and ensuring safety. Taste Perception and …

Dietary supplements

Electrolytes for cold-weather ultras: low thirst, same sodium needs

Introduction: Cold-weather ultras present unique challenges to athletes, particularly concerning hydration and electrolyte balance. In such extreme conditions, athletes often experience low thirst sensation, leading to potential dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Maintaining optimal electrolyte levels, especially sodium, is crucial for performance and health during cold-weather endurance events. The Role of Electrolytes in Cold-Weather Ultras: Electrolytes …

Dietary supplements

Nitrate “micro-top-ups” on stage races: how to keep levels steady

Introduction: Nitrate “micro-top-ups” have become a common practice in stage races to help athletes maintain optimal performance levels over consecutive days of racing. This article delves into the significance of nitrate supplementation, strategies to keep nitrate levels steady, and its impact on athletic performance in stage races. The Importance of Nitrate Supplementation: Nitrate is a …