Muscle Fatigue: Now… Learn How to Beat It with Nutritional Supplements
Muscle fatigue can lead to failure in competitive events in sports performance. And an improvement in muscle function by only 1-2% can mean the difference between winning and losing.
For those who aren’t competing in sporting events, a 1-2% improvement in muscle function would make a major impact in their life. If fatigue levels could be improved by as much as 25-50%, this would make a huge difference in the quality of life.
The research completed in university labs regarding nutritional supplements have revolved around improving sports performance. In the marketplace, supplement sales are a large business. The medical establishment is unsupportive in the use of supplements and considers it a waste of money.
However, published research shows that the doctors are not very well-informed. Here are some of the supplements that have been heavily researched:
* B-Vitamins
High doses seem to improve performance although results have been conflicting. Less healthy, non-athletic persons may have good responses.
* Vitamin C — there’s no evidence that this nutrient reduces muscle fatigue.
* Vitamins D and E — scientific studies don’t show a reduction in muscle fatigue from the use of these vitamins.
* Magnesium and potassium complexes with the aspartate amino acid
These stabilize cellular membranes and affect the intracellular potassium and magnesium concentrations. They also detox ammonia, a by product of muscle work. They can increase the flow of fuel through the body’s energy cycle.
* L-Carnitine — this substance is a non-essential amino acid. Studies show that it increased exercise performance in patients with chronic breathing problems. It also helped patients whose heart function was no longer as good as it should be. Many people who suffer with muscle fatigue and chronic fatigue also have multiple health problems. L-carnitine may help to improve overall health and thereby reduce fatigue.
* Coenzyme Q10 — this nutrient increases the flow of energy through what is known as the respiratory channel.
* Ginseng — the bulk of the research shows that ginseng doesn’t improve athletic performance. In health, however, it provides a stimulation of the body’s stress system. Because of this effect it provides health-giving qualities. The action of the herb at this level is called “adaptogenic,” meaning that it provides a whole-body stimulation effect.
One of the weaknesses in scientific studies of nutrients and athletic performance is the lack of studies looking at different doses of supplementation.
Another missing element is that few studies look at how supplements affect non-athletes. This group is particularly interesting because they operate far below an optimum level of physical function. Although doctors don’t support nutritional supplementation, less functional individuals may find they have much to gain by using selected supplements.