Anyone trying to lose weight will feel fit and healthy only by reading the label of supplements with benefits like “fat burning,” “plant-based,” and “improved strength.”
But, are popular supplements delivering on their promises, or are they harming our bodies (and wallets) more than we think?
Supplements, unlike prescription drugs, aren’t strictly controlled, and possible hazards often go unnoticed, according to Geraldine Moses of the University of Queensland’s School of Pharmacy.
“People just consider the benefits and ignore the risks,” Dr. Moses explains.
“Drug firms don’t have to prove what kind of benefit they’re providing, and they don’t have to notify us about the risks.”
What red signals should you look out for in a thriving market with plenty of supply?
Let’s take a closer look at Pre-Workout supplements down below:
The Truth About Pre-Workout Supplements
Pre-workout is a stimulant that is supposed to improve your performance and give you a sweaty, heart-racing workout.
Caffeine, amino acids, antioxidants, and other minerals are some of the most frequent ingredients found in supplements.
Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? It is at times.
Pre-exercise, which is about equivalent to 1-3 cups of coffee, can help you stay motivated before and during your workout; but there isn’t much evidence that there are any further benefits.
Some pre-workout substances are sourced from plants, fruits, and vegetables, but that doesn’t imply they’re healthier, according to Dr. Moses.
“There are several synonyms for caffeine,” she explains, “including ‘guaranine,’ which is caffeine derived from the guarana plant.”
“Mate is a regularly used source of caffeine, therefore one product could include caffeine, caffeine, and caffeine.”
The term ‘natural’ is merely a romantic notion. Morphine, codeine, and even heroin are all natural substances derived from the poppy flower, yet natural does not always imply good.
Dr. Moses recommends drinking coffee instead of pre-workout because you’ll know exactly how much you’re taking and what stimulant is in it.
According to accredited practising dietitian Tim McMaster, there are safe methods to take pre-workout, but it all comes down to dosage and time.
“Use it only once or twice a week for key or main training sessions,” adds Mr McMaster, who is also a spokeswoman for Dietitians Australia.
“If you use it on a regular basis, make sure to take a break every now and then.”
If you insist on taking pre-workout, experts advise doing it first thing in the morning to give your body ample time to metabolize it before bedtime.
If you’re sensitive to stimulants, there are also wonderful caffeine-free solutions.
“Having a piece of fruit about an hour before you perform an exercise can be an excellent alternative,” Mr McMaster adds, “because the carbohydrate in that piece of fruit will provide your body energy to utilise.”
“The number of professional athletes who eat a banana at halftime to power them for the rest of the game will astonish many.”
Did this open your eyes to the scientific realities around Pre-Workout stimulants? Let us know what you think down below!
