The Best Supplements To Take For Muscles

Several supplements could qualify as the best supplements for muscle growth. These supplements decrease protein breakdown, increase protein synthesis and allow your muscles to generate needed energy during intense exercise. For some people, your food intake may not give you the appropriate nutrients for healthy muscles. Taking supplements can help you improve your muscle growth at a faster rate.

Nitric Oxide Supplements

Your body naturally produces nitric oxide, a substance that helps blood flow from your heart to the rest of your body. Nitric oxide supplements come in either liquid or powder form, which bodybuilders can take before a workout session. According to a study published in the January 2001 issue of "Physiological Reviews," nitric oxide opens up the blood vessels, which allows oxygenated blood to flow faster from your heart to your muscles. This increased oxygen lets you work out longer, enabling better results over a period of time. Due to the effects of nitric oxide supplements on your heart, consult your doctor before using them.

Branched Chain Amino Acids

Your muscles need protein to remain healthy and amino acids provides the building blocks needed to make protein. Important amino acids include leucine, valine and isoleucine, also known as branched chain amino acids. Your muscle cells benefit from branched chain amino acids because, unlike other amino acids that go through the liver, branched amino acids go to your muscle tissues directly. This enables you to train your muscles longer and receive better results. Results from a study published in the July 2009 issue of the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" show that taking branched chain amino acids helps promote increased muscle mass.

Glutamine

Glutamine acts as an amino acid, which stimulates muscle recovery and enables muscle tissue repair. According to Columbia University, muscle growth can occur when glutamine carries nitrogen into the muscle cells. Your muscle tissues store high levels of glutamine and intense physical activity can cause decreased glutamine levels. Glutamine supplements shorten the time needed for muscle recovery, which allows you to work out more often and build more muscle mass. Consult with your doctor before taking glutamine supplements.

Creatine

A chemical naturally produced within your muscles, known as creatine, helps energize your muscle cells. The University of California San Diego reports that taking creatine supplements leads to increased muscle mass. Creatine also draws water into your muscle cells, which results in increased size and strength. Available in pill and powder forms, you can purchase creatine supplements over the counter. Like any supplement, talk to your doctor before taking it.