L-Arginine is one of 22 amino acids, and although all amino acids are considered the building blocks of muscle, research indicates L-Arginine offers extra benefits, such as the production of nitric oxide. MayoClinic.com explains that this can cause blood vessels to relax, which improves blood flow. In addition, research from the April 2010 issue of the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" explains that L-Arginine may increase production of growth hormone, which aids in muscle growth. Before using any supplements, consult a medical professional.
BSN NO-Xplode
BSN NO-Xplode is a popular pre-workout supplement that is purported to increase energy levels and strength during workouts. In addition to L-Arginine, NO-Xplode contains other amino acids such as taurine, ingredients such as caffeine to provide energy and creatine to encourage strength. Although creatine and caffeine may be effective supplements when used on their own, research suggests that the combination may not be effective. A study published in the February 1996 issue of the "Journal of Applied Physiology" found that while creatine improves performance, its beneficial effect is "completely eliminated by caffeine intake."
ISS Research Re-Satur8
ISS Research Re-Satur8 is a post-workout product that claims to enhance muscle size and help you recover from resistance exercise. As with NO-Xplode, ISS Research Re-Satur8 contains creatine, although it does not contain caffeine. This product contains 30 g of carbohydrates per serving, as carbohydrates aid in recovery. L-Arginine is included due to its blood vessel relaxation abilities; this may improve blood flow and make it easier for nutrients to reach the muscles you've just worked. ISS Research Re-Satur8 does not contain protein, but you may want to consume protein after your workout in addition to carbohydrates.
AllMax Nutrition Isoflex
AllMax Nutrition Isoflex is a whey protein isolate, which is a protein powder that is very low in fat and carbohydrates. Whey protein is a quickly absorbed protein source that is often used by bodybuilders and strength athletes after workouts. Isoflex contains L-Arginine to encourage blood flow and protein delivery, but it also contains a wide number of other amino acids, including nearly 3 g of leucine. According to research from the August 2006 issue of the "European Journal of Applied Physiology," leucine supplementation may improve recovery, resulting in increased endurance and strength in subsequent training sessions.
S.A.N. Myotein
S.A.N. Myotein is also a protein powder supplement, though it varies from Isoflex in that it contains added fat and carbohydrates. This supplement is intended as a meal replacement, and contains 178 calories per serving, with 6 g fat, 8 g carbohydrates and 23 g protein. Myotein contains L-Arginine in addition to a number of other amino acids, including leucine.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Arginine (L-arginine)
- "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research"; Arginine and Ornithine Supplementation Increases Growth Hormone and Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Serum Levels After Heavy-resistance Exercise in Strength-trained Athletes; A Zajac et al; April 2010
- "Journal of Applied Physiology"; Caffeine Counteracts the Ergogenic Action of Muscle Creatine Loading; K Vandenberghe et al; February 1996
- "European Journal of Applied Physiology"; Effects of Dietary Leucine Supplementation on Exercise Performance; MJ Crowe, JN Weatherson, BF Bowden; August 2006
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