Caffeine, which belongs to the chemical class known as methylxanthines, is naturally found in certain leaves, seeds and fruits. It is also added to beverages, supplements and certain medicines, and it is a very widely used ergogenic aid, or...
Your body metabolizes, or breaks down, macronutrients to synthesize cellular energy for physiologic processes. This shifts in the acid-base balance in your cells, so your blood has buffers to prevent large changes in pH. At rest, your blood's...
Protein powders may have a positive effect on physical fitness performance, but these supplements aren't a substitute for balanced nutrition from whole foods. Preliminary research suggests whey protein, in particular, may improve strength gains...
When it comes to knee replacement surgery, physical therapy is an important part of your recovery. To replace your diseased joint is not enough. Instead, you must engage in physical therapy exercises to help the muscles, ligaments and tendons heal...
If you are considering joining a gym to start working out, it is highly advisable to undergo a cardiovascular physical assessment first to make sure that your heart and vascular system is ready to handle the physical strain. Two main components...
A man who performs hard physical work on a regular basis is directly affected by what he eats. His strength and energy go hand in hand with the kind of food he puts into his body, making his meal plan just as important as showing up for work on...
A physical examination may be needed when you purchase a life insurance policy, especially for larger benefit amounts. Insurance underwriters use a multitude of factors to determine your risk of premature death, and hence, how much premium you...
Today's fast-paced life requires plenty of energy and the ability to deal with stress. A balanced diet can keep you going; certain vitamins can also prove particularly helpful. Consult your doctor before beginning any new supplementation regimen,...
Aerobic exercises, like jogging, are key components to cardiovascular fitness and weight management. Jogging is one of the most effective exercises because it burns more calories and builds more bone density than walking, due to it being higher...
Whey is a protein-rich dairy product that can help you prevent heart disease, improve bone composition, improve physical performance and increase your muscle mass. Whey is a leftover product from the production of cheese and other dairy products....
Energy drinks and sports drinks are not the same. While sports drinks provide electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to help replace those lost during lengthy, intense exercise sessions, energy drinks are infused with ingredients such as...
Rhodiola rosea is a plant that has been used for medicinal purposes since the time of the Vikings. Rhodiola has been used in traditional medicine throughout Scandinavia and Russia to improve physical endurance and strength, as well as to treat...
Ribose, or D-ribose, is a white crystalline, water-soluble sugar found in ribonucleic acid. According to Elmhurst.edu, ribose and its related compound, deoxyribose, are the building blocks in the nucleic acids DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, and...
Calories are the basic energy component of food. But to get the most energy from your food, you need to pay attention not only to the quantity of calories you consume, but also to the quality. Vitamins play a vital role in supporting energy due to...
Acetyl L-carnitine is a modified form of the nonessential amino acid L-carnitine. Acetyl L-carnitine is thought to increase the amount of L-carnitine able to be absorbed by the body. L-carnitine shows potential to help offset metabolic...
Your butt is a group of three muscles called the gluteal muscles, or the glutes, that help you move your thighs and legs. Toning your glutes can improve your physical performance, but it also has the added bonus of improving your appearance....
Strong muscles are essential for the young and old alike. Whether you are 25 or 50, having strong muscles maximizes your physical performance, helping you to live a full and active life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention...
It is nearly impossible to live in today's world and not know the detrimental health effects of smoking. Because of its influence on heart rate, respiration and blood pressure, smoking also affects athletic performance. Bodybuilding is an area...
Korean ginseng is an herb from the plant family Araliace, and may also be referred to as Panax ginseng. Ginseng is a potent herb from Asia which has, for centuries, been used to promote vitality and treat fatigue. It is a favored supplement among...
Good health is a treasure that each individual should strive to value and develop during a lifetime. As explained in the Preamble to the Constitution of the The World Health Organization, health is defined as a "state of complete physical, mental...
While the nutritional needs of athletes aren't drastically different from those of more sedentary people, optimal nutritional status is essential for peak physical performance. Fortunately, most athletes do not require any vitamin or nutritional...
Your body naturally produces creatine from amino acids located in your kidneys and liver. Skeletal muscles store most of this creatine. Your body uses creatine to create energy that allows your muscles to perform physical activities. Many athletes...
Smoking tobacco has long been associated with health risks and damage to the body. Tobacco smoke contains nicotine, tar and hundreds of chemical additives known to cause cancer. According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 1.3...
Ginseng grows in the cool, shady, highland areas of North America, Korea and northeastern China. The Chinese name for ginseng is ren shen, or "man root," which is derived from the appearance of the root, which is similar to a human shape....
Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Packed full of toxins--4,800 chemicals to be exact--cigarettes attack healthy tissue within the first few puffs. Some immediate consequences, such as bad...
Eating foods high in energy is important for active children and adults who are concerned about their mental or physical performance. A high-energy diet can allow you to sustain your exertion levels until your next meal, which is important for...
Ashwagandha is an herb highly valued in ayurvedic medicine. It is used to treat conditions from constipation to loose teeth. People also take ashwagandha to boost energy, and some scientific evidence supports this use. However, consult with your...
From lung cancer to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, smoking is among the worst voluntary actions you can take for your lungs. Aside from serious conditions, studies have linked the inhalation of cigarette smoke --- even among passive or...
Much of your body is already fully developed even before you reach adulthood. According to Medline Plus, men's genitals are fully developed by 16 to 17 years old. Although you might reach maturity in many areas before adulthood, there are still...
The 2 pushup 2 pull-up combo is a great chest and back exercise that is physically demanding. Can't perform the pull up with your own body weight? Perform lat pull downs in replacement. Learn how to perform this exercise in this training video...
The 2 pushup 2 pull-up combo is a great chest and back exercise that is physically demanding. Can't perform the pull up with your own body weight? Perform lat pull downs in replacement. Learn how to perform this exercise in this training video...
Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water or fluids than it takes in and can not function properly as a result. In this video learn more about this common issue and how to prevent it.
