
Are you trying to build up muscles and have started taking bodybuilding supplements? In that case, you should be aware of bodybuilding supplements side effects. Read this article to know more.
Bodybuilding supplements are usually consumed by athletes and those who wish to increase their muscle mass. These also improve their performance in sports. But, it is necessary to do a bit of research before opting for any supplement, as they increase the muscle mass drastically in a very short span of time, which might prove to be either futile or harmful. Some of the supplements are obtained from natural products, which do not cause much harm to our body if taken in small quantities.
However, excessive consumption harms our system, as the body cannot get rid of the excess oil-based vitamins present in them. One must remember that every supplement has its own side effects. The fact is that if we follow a proper diet, exercise regularly, and take rest, we do not really require these supplements. Following is a list of various dietary supplements for muscle building along with their side effects.
Creatine
It is believed to be the most popular supplement ever since it came into the market. Creatine is mostly taken by bodybuilders and sports persons. It is available in both powdered and capsule form. The dosage prescribed to a healthy person is 5-20 grams per day. Creatine is an organic acid that is already present in our muscle cells. It absorbs water from different organs of our body and deposits it into the muscle cells. As a result, there is a lack of water supply to other organs and they suffer from dehydration, thereby causing cramps.
One of the dangers of this chemical is the piling up of extra calories. It increases the muscle energy and the body starts gaining weight at an unhealthy rate. Another side effect of creatine is that it causes kidney problems. It has been noted that its long-term use transforms kidney stones into ulcer. Other complications of the kidney have also been seen in people consuming more creatine. It also causes stomach cramps, nausea, and other such problems, and increases the reproducible rate of tumor cells. If you are already suffering from nephritic problems, you should consult a doctor before taking this particular supplement.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant, the dosage of which is ideally 300 mg per day. It is considered to be a comparatively safe supplement when consumed in moderate amounts. Bodybuilders take large doses of caffeine in order to obtain more energy for a rigorous workout regime. Some of the side effects of this chemical are palpitation, nervousness, and diarrhea. Too much consumption of caffeine may also cause acute dehydration, insomnia, and restlessness.
Andro
Andro hormones are converted to testosterone in our body, which influence the growth of muscles. These are taken by the athletes for muscle building. The dosage recommended for these supplements is 200 mg per day. Some of the side effects are baldness, facial hair growth, and sometimes even breast cancer. Sexual dysfunction can also be a side-effect as a result of testosterone boosting. Andro supplements cause reduced sex drive in men and increased sex hormones in females. It can interrupt the menstrual cycle in females.
Glutamine
Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that is innately present in our muscles. It aids in building the muscle tissue. Dosage for glutamine consumption for athletes is 5-15 grams per day. Excess consumption of this supplement may result in manic depression, upset stomach, nausea, lack of concentration, body ache, and it often affects the brain as well.
Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring compound present in our body. It increases the muscle mass by providing more nutrients to the skeletal muscles. It is taken by professional bodybuilders and sports persons. It is better to consult a physician before taking any dosage of nitric oxide,as overdose can cause nausea, headache, and migraine. Harmful side effects include severe breathing problems, asthma, and weakness. Another side effect is rapid heart rate, palpitation, and some other health problems.
Other Supplements
Thermogenic supplements, whey protein, multivitamin, and mineral supplements can also be taken to increase muscle mass. Higher dose of thermogenic supplements leads to palpitation, nervousness, and behavioral changes. Side effects of whey protein include allergic reactions, liver damage, and kidney stones. Excess dose of multivitamins causes headaches, muscle ache, and dehydration. High dosage of minerals may lead to an upset stomach, muscle weakness, constipation, and so on.
Bodybuilders should be cautious about the side effects of the supplements they take. The components present in proteins are aspartame, saccharin, fructose, and artificial colors. These supplements are sweetened with chemicals rather than natural sweeteners, which is not good for our health. Aspartame, on breaking down, produces formic acid and formaldehyde, which damage the nerve cells. Long term use of whey protein damages the liver and also causes renal problems.
The side effects of these supplements may differ from person to person. therefore, it is always better to consult a doctor before consuming them. If at all required, it is always better to find out all the positives and negatives of the supplement and then consume it, that too in prescribed doses. After all, health is the greatest wealth.