Supplement Godfather

QUESTION: I see more and more antioxidants being included in sports supplement formulas. Can athletes really benefit from taking antioxidant supplements?

ANSWER: Yes, athletes can definitely benefit from taking antioxidants. Actually, they can be very beneficial to just about anyone looking to improve health and performance. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals, which are damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and can even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins and strenuous exercise can increase the number of these damaging particles. For instance, heavy weight training can cause an increase in free radical production, which can impair recovery. Antioxidant supplements can help neutralize the damage free radicals cause to muscle cells, and this helps speed recovery. Açai berry, grape seed, alpha lipoic acid (ALA), coenzyme Q10, and resveratrol are some of the most powerful antioxidants available. Newer research on antioxidants and athletes explores the role they have in improving exercise endurance and strength. In fact, many studies on antioxidant supplementation show they clearly have positive effects on exercise performance. I’d expect this area of sports supplement research to expand over the next several years.

For another article on supplements for improved recovery, click here!