Read 146 times since Thursday, February 04, 2010
Immune system is the single most important factor not only in bodybuilding, but in life as well. In life, our bodies survive just as long as it takes for our immune systems to allow some free radicals to create toxicity, which leads to cancer. If we could keep our immune systems strong enough, we would live decades longer. In the gym, it's very similar. When we lift weights, we put our bodies in a state of stress. The muscles release toxins as a byproduct of our lifting. We can create growth by answering these deficiencies through diet and rest.
There are some nutrient windows which exist around traumatic events to our immune systems which should be further explored if you wish to not only be a successful bodybuilder, but live a healthy life as well. The use of carbohydrates, particularly in a quick delivery system such as Gatorade, can give the immune system a boost, if they are delivered at the right time. Let's address a common misconception and learn the most effective time to administer carbohydrates in relation to a workout.
Pre-workout carbohydrate supplementation
Studies have shown that carbohydrate drinks before a workout provide no stimulation to the immune system. There isn't a way to "pre-empt" the damage about to be done to cells due to tough workouts.
During-workout carbohydrate supplementation
The data is sketchy here - but it may benefit you to play it safe and consume a Gatorade/water mix during your workout. It is reasonable to believe if drinks are beneficial after a workout when the damage is done, that they would be more and more beneficial to your immune system as the workout goes one, and more and more damage is done. In other words, if carbs are highly useful when your workout is complete and you've done 20 sets, wouldn't they be somewhat useful after you've completed 10 sets as well?
Carbohydrate supplementation after a workout
Improved immune system function can arise from consuming a carbohydrate drink immediately following a workout. Even better would be a mixture of protein and a sugary drink. The immune system has certainly been disrupted, and your body is in a state of damage. Instead of letting these free radicals roam your system looking for cells to destroy, deliver carbs to your body to provide the immune system with the means to destroy them.
Sleep, diet, supplementation and intelligent training go a long way in ensuring the immune system is able to function at its highest capacity. Always get at least 7 hours per sleep each night, with at least 30 minutes of relax time each day. Eat enough calories so that your body is not continually in either a state of overall caloric deprivation, or macronutrient deprivation, should you lack carbs, protein or fats. Use vitamin C at the conclusion of your workout, and again before bed. Vitamin E should also be taken twice daily. Finally, look into the use of Acia berry and other anti-oxidant rich foods which can boost the immune system. The goal of the bodybuilder is to gain muscle - and stimulating the immune system to recover faster will ensure you build a great deal more muscle! Dane Fletcher is the world-wide authority on bodybuilding and steroids. He has coached countless athletes all over the world. To read more of his work, please visit either http://www.BodybuildingToday.com or http://www.SteroidsToday.com
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