Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1498053
www.AbbysHealthFood.com | # 56| Page 23 www.AbbysHealthFood.com CLICK: www.AbbysHealthFood.com ASHWAGANDHA If you're seeking herbs for strength, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) may help in this area. Specifically, an extract of Ashwagandha was shown to improve upper and lower body strength in recreationally active participants. PROTEIN Unlike the micronutrients and herbs listed above, protein is one of three macronutrients that are absolutely essential for your health. (The other two macronutrients are carbohydrates and fat.) Of interest to athletes in particular, one of protein's main roles in the body is acting as building blocks for building and repairing muscle tissue. You should eat protein every day, and have a variety of sources so your body is getting all the essential amino acids. Most Americans do get enough protein. Here are some examples of protein-rich foods and supplements to help you plan a varied protein intake: CREATINE Depending on your preferred sport, you might have heard about supplementing with creatine as an "ergogenic aid." (An ergogenic aid is a compound believed to support energy production or otherwise improve athletic performance.) Creatine is a compound that supplies muscles with energy. The body does produce some creatine daily, and it is also present in small amounts in meats and seafood. Various studies on creatine supplementation have shown that taking additional creatine may support lean muscle mass as well as increased exercise capacity and post-workout recovery. If you choose to take creatine, read the label carefully to make sure the product is creatine monohydrate and doesn't contain unnecessary additives. TURMERIC Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a popular herb for active bodies because it delivers a studied compound called Curcumin. This phytonutrient from Turmeric has been linked to a healthy inflammation response that may be useful during athletic training and recovery. Keep in mind that there's more to whole-herb Turmeric than just Curcumin—its other active compounds including Turmerones can actually help with proper Curcumin absorption. Benefits of Supplements for Athletes Physical activity is linked to countless benefits ranging from more restful sleep to better energy, right on up to increased lifespan. As an athlete, taking a thoughtful combination of ingredients in one or more targeted supplements can give you great tools for working toward your personal goals and personal bests. As described above, supplement benefits can include support for muscle function and recovery, bone health, immune function, physical endurance, and healthy inflammation response.* Check in with your healthcare professional on how the best supplements for athletes can help you, and whether you'll take them every day (including training days and rest days). Finding High-Quality Supplements As an athlete, you probably scrutinize everything to be sure the ingredients are clean, tested, and trustworthy. One excellent way to confirm the quality of supplements you're considering is to check for third-party verifications. Have independent and authoritative groups reviewed and confirmed that a supplement is, say, made with organic ingredients, approved for sport, or reviewed for risk of genetically modified organisms? Check the label to be sure! History of Supplements for Athletes Ancient accounts tell of athletes preparing for competition by consuming meats from animals that had the qualities they desired— like strength, speed, or stamina. Over the centuries, athletes have tried countless substances to gain a competitive edge, from gentle, natural ingredients to more extreme (and sometimes illegal) substances. Now that there are professional fields of study including sports nutrition and sports medicine, athletes and fitness buffs alike can get science- backed support in choosing the best regimens for their needs. THE BOT TOM LINE Pursuing athletic goals and personal records takes planning and persistence. As you follow through on workouts and rest days, you're training your body to respond and adapt. Exercise stresses the body— that's the point. For your active body, discover the ideal supplements that will help you train smart, stay strong, and recover well. It's always a good idea to do your research when considering supplements for athletic performance. BROWSE OUR WEBSITE Where you will find: Recipes, Health Prac oners, News & Events, Specials. Cafe' Eden's Personalized Meals, OnLine ordering. Link to Abby's Farm. ALL current and previous Abby's Digital Magazines!