A Beginner’s Guide To Creatine and Glutamine
Fitness supplements have gained immense popularity in recent years. They are the miracle drinks that provide results in mere weeks that otherwise would have taken months to achieve. These supplements are filled with all the important ingredients in measured quantities needed to fulfill certain goals. This is what makes them so much sought-after products by athletes and bodybuilders. Some common supplements high in demand are protein powders, pre-workout supplements, weight gainer shakes, Creatine and Glutamine and more. Another type of supplement that is very beneficial for gym-goers, but not as common as others, is the creatines and glutamines. We explore more on what they are and why they are a beneficial supplement, and which individuals can take creatine and glutamine supplements.
Creatine
Creatine is a naturally occurring organic compound found in the body. It is stored in the body’s skeletal muscles. The compound was first identified by French chemist Michel Eugene Chevreul in 1832. Clinical studies showed that creatine is stored in the body which suggested its significance as a supplement to the diet. It is found in red meat.
Creatine has a key role in generating ATP for the muscles, the body’s energy source. Found in meat and red meat, vegetarians have lower creatine levels in their bodies as compared to non-veg.
Benefits of Creatine
Creatine is famous for its beneficial results shown in muscles and exercise performance. It enhances muscle mass and due to its regenerative abilities, is used for muscle cramps, fatigue, and even depression. Due to its importance in improving muscle performance and repair, it is allowed by the International Olympic Committee and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Creatine substantially helps with athletic performance. It improves sports performances that involve muscle activity such as cycling, rowing, running, tennis, and more. An indirect benefit of creatine is that it enhances water retention in the cells. This adds volume to the muscles and gives a “pumped” look which is desirable by bodybuilders and regular gym-goers alike. It reduces protein breakdown in the muscles and retains muscle mass.
The benefits of creatine for muscle gain and exercise performance are well documented and backed by extensive research. Adding creatine to the diet of older adults in a 14-week study showed considerable improvement in their leg strength. In another study conducted on weightlifters, creatine supplementation and exercise resulted in 2-3 times more increase in muscle fiber as compared to training alone.
Usage
Creatine supplements work their magic in two phases: the loading phase and the maintenance phase.
In the loading phase, users take the recommended dose of creatine supplements for about 7 days. The concept of the loading phase is to “load” up the body on creatine. As mentioned earlier, excess creatine is stored in the skeletal muscles. Thus, the loading phase stacks up creatine into the muscles for volume and strength.
Following the loading phase, the maintenance phase aims to “maintain” the creatine levels in the body. The maintenance phase works to cover up for creatine depletion by the body.
Creatine is now easily available in local and international markets. Creatine price in Pakistan varies according to different brands and retailers. However, it is important to shop for only authentic products from trusted brands and certified retailers.
Glutamine
Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in the biosynthesis of proteins. It is the most abundant free amino acid in human blood. It is a non-essential and conditionally essential amino acid. This means that although it is synthesized naturally by the body, in certain conditions of stress, the body may need glutamine supplementation to make up for its increased demand. Glutamine is abundant in protein-rich foods such as eggs, chicken, fish, dairy, and beef, and in vegetables like cabbage, carrots, spinach, parsley, etc.
Being an amino acid, glutamine is an important element in protein synthesis. It is made in the muscles and stored in different organs in the body. It plays a key role in maintaining a good immune system and intestinal health.
Benefits
A strong immune system is necessary for every individual. However, being healthy and staying healthy becomes even more essential for athletes and sportspersons who are constantly exposed to different environments. Disease or infections can hinder their workout or training routines which directly impacts their professional performance. Glutamine works to maintain a healthy immune system and this is what makes it a sought-after supplement by sports professionals.
Being an amino acid, glutamine plays its role in protein synthesis. This means it has a significant role in muscle regeneration and synthesis. Intense training and strength exercises cause tears in muscle fibers. Regular exercise tends to increase these tears and results in muscle fatigue and soreness. Glutamine is known to help with muscle soreness and relieves fatigue in order to prepare the body for the next training sessions.
Glutamine price in Pakistan is variable and depends on a number of factors such as quality, brand, and retailers. Due to its important functions. Glutamine is pretty much like a medical supplement. This is why buyers should be extra careful while shopping for this supplement. Make sure to buy only from reliable stores and globally ranked brands.
Conclusion
Fitness supplements have gained immense popularity over the past few years due to their benefits and quick action. Contrary to common misperception, they are safe and free from harmful substances, provided you shop only from authentic retailers selling top brands. Creatine and glutamine supplements are among the most commonly used fitness nutrition and for good reason. Creatine directly influences muscle mass, athletic performance, and muscle regeneration while glutamine supports the action of creatine by maintaining a healthy immune system and muscle synthesis. It also reduces muscle stress for a successful and consistent workout routine. These supplements are a must-have in every professional athlete or bodybuilder’s gym bag. However, the challenge is finding authentic products.
Nutrojenix is the answer to these concerns. A renowned fitness supplement store, NutroJenix searches and collects only the best fitness supplements from world-renowned brands and manufacturers. The retailer’s direct dealing with some top brands adds to its credibility and authenticity.