Everything You Need to Know About SARMs

Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, also known as SARMs, might sound like something fresh out of a science fiction novel, but that’s not the case. SARMs are real, effective, and an alternative to steroids. For bodybuilders, SARMs could be the key to unlocking true muscle building potential without any of the serious side effects connected to steroid usage.

Here is everything you need to know about Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, including what they are and why they work.

What Are SARMs?

SARMs is an acronym for Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators. A SARM is a drug that is a chemical twin to anabolic steroids. Though SARMs are thought to be new in the bodybuilding world, these drugs have been around since the 1940s. Currently, there are a few SARMs available legally on the market, such as:

Ostarine (MK-2866 or GTx-024)
Ligandol or Anabolicum (LGD-4033)
LGD-3303
Andarine (GSX-007 or S-4)
Cardarine (GW-501516)
Nutrobal (MK-677)
Testolone (RAD-140)

What are those weird code names, you ask? The truth is that, while SARMs can be bought, they haven’t been approved for medical application, so no generic names have been affixed to them yet. This doesn’t mean SARMs are dangerous. More on that in the next section.

Also, some of the SARMs in the list are not literal SARMs. Cardarine is a PPAR receptor agonist; and Nutrobal is a growth hormone secretagogue, which helps with the release of growth hormones.

How Do SARMs Work?

To understand how SARMs work, we need to briefly look at how hormones, namely androgens, function. Androgens are the hormones responsible for masculine qualities, like facial hair, muscles, and lower body fat levels). The best known androgen is testosterone.

The body regulates the production of androgens, because imbalances are a double-edged sword. On the positive side, the more androgens you have, the faster muscles grow. On the downside, you can suffer from acne, oily hair, cysts, elevated blood pressure, testicular atrophy, and so on. This is why steroid usage is so dangerous.

SARMs, on the other hand, only focus on muscular growth by:

Focusing on muscle and bone, not the prostate, brain, and liver like steroids
Avoiding the breakdown of molecules, like DHT and estrogen
Avoiding conversion into 5-A reductase, which also converts into DHT, the cause of unwanted side effects

This means at SARMs work like growth hormones without impacting the body like an over-saturation of androgen hormones would.

What Are The Benefits of SARMs?

Whether you are a bodybuilder trying to get over a plateau, a recreational gym-goer, a fitness enthusiast, or an elite athlete, SARMs have a number of benefits that greatly outweigh more controversial methods, like steroids.

SARMs can:

Increase lean body mass
Prevent muscle loss (catabolism) during cutting
Accelerate rehabilitation after injuries
Decrease recovery time
Increase fat loss
Increase muscular endurance
Decrease overall fatigue
Regulate your libido
Be used safely by females

SARMs are better than steroids for the following reasons:

Orally taken, not injected
No liver toxicity from methylated compounds
Doesn’t change to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Doesn’t change to estrogen
Doesn’t inhibit HPTA or cause a reduction in LH or FSH (hormones)
Completely legal
Virtually undetectable

Another benefit to SARMs is that the side effects are minimal. You rarely have to worry about negative effects. However, you should always do your research on the brand of SARM you want to use to make sure no negative side effects, like suppressed testosterone, have been reported. Don’t use SARM S-23 for this very reason.

How To Use SARMs

SARMs can be used several ways, depending on your goals. Bulking, cutting, and weight loss cycles can all benefit. Most SARM formulas come in triple stacks, since many of the compounds are multi-faceted and have a synergistic relationship with one another.

For example, if you want to bulk with SARMs, you might use andarine, ostabolic (ostarine) and testolone for 12 weeks. The typical dose is 10-25 mgs a day of each SARM. You should never go above 25 milligrams per dose.

For cutting, use andarine (S-4), which has fat burning effects.

To gain strength, andarine (S-4), anabolicum (LGD), and cardarine (GW) are a triple stack that works well for recomposition. Again, the usual dosage is 12 weeks. Then, you taper off.

In short, SARMs are growing in popularity with the bodybuilding community, because this supplement has shown an ability to accelerate anabolism in muscles, prevent catabolism, accelerate recovery, and are much safer than steroids. If you’re looking for a change or want to unleash the potential of your muscles, SARMs are worth a try.

Have thoughts on SARMs? Share your thoughts!

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Nutrition

Can Red Rice Lower Cholesterol?

By RunThaCity — 7 years ago

Red rice gained its reputation by becoming one of the ingredients to contribute a healthy weight loss. Aside from that, its cholesterol-lowering effect is so valuable that it has become the top prescriptions of nutritionists and doctors to aid in therapeutic diet. You’ll be surprised at the some of the facts about red rice as we give you the 5 things you need to know about how red rice can lower cholesterol.

This rice is actually a product of yeast.

Red rice is a product of yeast called Monascus Purpureus. These organisms are grown on rice which are responsible for its dark-red color. In fact, this kind of yeasts are cultivated and extracted to make a product known to lessen cholesterol in the body.

This is a natural alternative to cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Due to the action of Monascus Purpureus, red rice is also known to be a perfect alternative to treat health conditions related to cholesterol. It is now prescribed by doctors to be a good remedy for mild symptoms of high-cholesterol problems, as a natural alternative to medicines. If you are one of the people who would like to opt for this natural medicine, visit your physician for more details. There are certain safety precautions in its alternative usage because it may interact with other drugs and substances.

The proven effects to avoid muscle pains.

In recent studies, it has been found out that the red rice actually reduce risks of muscle pains, medically known as myalgia. This symptom usually is experienced by patients who take medications to lower the low-density lipoprotein (LDL). According to the study, patients who are taking this type of medication experience lower incidence of myalgia when replaced with red rice.

Amazing benefits to gastric problems.

The use of red rice has been around in ancient times where China discovered its potent benefits to health. Red rice has mild healing benefits to many gastric problems including diarrhea and indigestion. Other benefits include improved spleen function, increase blood circulation, good digestion and absorption.

Red rice cholesterol has its own method for weight management.

Since it aids in lowering levels of cholesterol, it goes to say that red rice is also a good aid to lose weight. With its natural nutrients and fiber, more toxins are washed out while it continues to help the body attain a regular bowel movement.

These are the top 5 things you should know about how red rice can lower cholesterol. Among these benefits, there is always one that fits the body’s needs. With its holistic way in taking care of the body, it is no wonder why this ingredient has been creating buzz in the wellness industry. Although these are said to be natural and effective, there are also safety issues that go along with it. In fact, health professionals warn people to take extra precaution in using these products as they contain potent substances that may be detrimental to one’s overall health. To be safe than sorry, be sure to get an approval of your doctor before incorporating red rice to your lifestyle.
Fitness Nutrition

Ectomorph, Mesomorph, & Endomorph: Beginners Guide To Body Types

By RunThaCity — 2 years ago

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to gain muscle easily, while others struggle to lose weight no matter how much they exercise? The answer may lie in their body type. There are three main body types: ectomorphs, mesomorphs, and endomorphs. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore each body type, their characteristics, and the best exercises and diets for each one.

What Is An Ectomorph Body Type?

Ectomorphs are often referred to as “hardgainers” because they tend to have a harder time gaining weight and muscle mass compared to the other body types. They typically have a slim build, with narrow hips and shoulders, and a fast metabolism. Ectomorphs often have long limbs, a thin waist, and a small bone structure.

Characteristics of Ectomorphs:

Difficulty gaining weight and muscle mass

Fast metabolism

Slim and narrow build

Small bone structure

Long limbs and thin waist

Low body fat percentage

Can appear “wiry” or “stringy”

Best Exercises for Ectomorphs: Ectomorphs should focus on exercises that promote muscle growth and weight gain. Compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, are ideal for ectomorphs. They should also incorporate high-intensity training and progressive overload into their workouts to stimulate muscle growth.

Here are some of the best exercises for ectomorphs:

Compound Exercises: Compound exercises are exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once. These types of exercises are ideal for ectomorphs because they promote muscle growth and help to build overall strength. Examples of compound exercises include squats, deadlifts, bench presses, pull-ups, and rows.

Heavy Weightlifting: Ectomorphs should aim to lift heavy weights with low to moderate repetitions to stimulate muscle growth. Lifting heavy weights will help to build muscle mass and strength, and it will also help to increase bone density.

High-Intensity Training: High-intensity training, such as sprinting, HIIT, or circuit training, is also ideal for ectomorphs. This type of training can help to stimulate muscle growth and increase endurance.

Progressive Overload: Ectomorphs should focus on progressive overload, which means gradually increasing the weight, reps, or sets over time. This will help to challenge the muscles and promote muscle growth.

Rest and Recovery: Rest and recovery are also important for ectomorphs. They should aim to get enough sleep and rest days to allow their muscles to recover and grow. Overtraining can be counterproductive and hinder muscle growth.

Overall, ectomorphs should focus on exercises that promote muscle growth and build overall strength. A combination of compound exercises, heavy weightlifting, high-intensity training, progressive overload, and rest and recovery will help ectomorphs to achieve their fitness goals.

Diet Recommendations for Ectomorphs: To gain weight and muscle mass, ectomorphs need to consume more calories than they burn. Ectomorphs should focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods, such as lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. They should also aim to consume a high amount of protein to support muscle growth. Ectomorphs may also benefit from consuming calorie-dense foods, such as nuts, avocados, and dried fruits, to increase their calorie intake.

Diet plays a crucial role in achieving fitness goals, especially for ectomorphs who struggle to gain weight and muscle mass. A proper diet will provide the necessary nutrients for muscle growth and will prevent the body from burning muscle for energy. Here are some diet recommendations for ectomorphs:

Calorie Surplus: Ectomorphs should aim to consume more calories than they burn to gain weight and build muscle. It’s recommended that ectomorphs consume 500-1000 calories above their maintenance level to achieve a calorie surplus. This surplus can be achieved by adding calorie-dense foods to their diet, such as nuts, avocados, and whole grains.

Protein Intake: Protein is essential for muscle growth, and ectomorphs should aim to consume 1.5-2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. This means that a 70 kg (154 lb) ectomorph should aim to consume 105-140 grams of protein per day. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and soy products.

Carbohydrate Intake: Carbohydrates provide energy for the body, and ectomorphs should aim to consume complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. These foods will provide a sustained release of energy and prevent the body from burning muscle for energy.

Healthy Fats: Ectomorphs should also include healthy fats in their diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds. Healthy fats are essential for hormone production and overall health.

Meal Frequency: Ectomorphs should aim to eat 5-6 small meals throughout the day to provide a constant supply of nutrients for muscle growth. This will prevent the body from burning muscle for energy and will also prevent overeating.

Overall, ectomorphs should aim to consume a balanced diet that is high in protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. They should also consume more calories than they burn to achieve a calorie surplus for weight gain. A consistent diet combined with a proper exercise routine will help ectomorphs to achieve their fitness goals.

Overall, ectomorphs may have a harder time gaining weight and muscle mass compared to the other body types, but with a proper workout routine and diet, they can still achieve their fitness goals.

What is a Mesomorph?

Mesomorphs are often described as the “ideal” body type because they have a naturally athletic build and tend to gain muscle and lose fat relatively easily. They typically have a medium-sized bone structure, a wide shoulder-to-hip ratio, and well-defined muscles.

Characteristics of Mesomorphs:

Naturally athletic build

Medium-sized bone structure

Wide shoulder-to-hip ratio

Well-defined muscles

Tendency to gain muscle and lose fat easily

Efficient metabolism

Best Exercises for Mesomorphs: Mesomorphs excel in a variety of exercises, as their athletic build and efficient metabolism make it easier for them to build muscle and lose fat. They should focus on a balanced workout routine that includes both resistance training and cardiovascular exercises.

Weightlifting: Mesomorphs tend to build muscle easily, so they should focus on weightlifting exercises that target specific muscle groups. Compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are also beneficial for muscle growth.

Cardiovascular Exercises: Mesomorphs should also include cardiovascular exercises in their workout routine to maintain a healthy heart and promote fat loss. Running, cycling, swimming, and rowing are all great options.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT workouts are also ideal for mesomorphs. HIIT workouts are short, intense bursts of exercise followed by a brief rest period. They help to increase metabolism, burn fat, and improve cardiovascular health.

Diet Recommendations for Mesomorphs: Mesomorphs tend to have a more efficient metabolism than other body types, which means they can consume more calories without gaining weight. However, it’s important for mesomorphs to maintain a balanced diet to support their fitness goals. They should focus on consuming a diet high in protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Overall, mesomorphs are naturally gifted with an athletic build and an efficient metabolism. To maintain their physique, they should focus on a balanced workout routine that includes both resistance training and cardiovascular exercises. Mesomorphs should also maintain a healthy diet to support their fitness goals.

What is an Endomorph Body Type?

Endomorphs are characterized by their curvy and rounded body structure, with a high body fat percentage and a slow metabolism. Endomorphs tend to have a softer and rounder appearance, with a wider waist, hips, and thighs. This body type has a tendency to gain weight easily and struggle to lose it, making weight management a major concern for endomorphs.

Endomorphs often have a greater appetite and may experience cravings for high-calorie foods, which can make it challenging to maintain a healthy diet. This body type also tends to have lower insulin sensitivity, which can lead to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

To manage weight and promote overall health, endomorphs need to adopt a specific approach to training and nutrition. They may benefit from a higher protein and lower carbohydrate diet to promote satiety and reduce cravings. It’s also important for endomorphs to engage in regular exercise, including both cardiovascular and strength training, to increase their metabolism and build lean muscle mass.

Weight training is particularly important for endomorphs, as it helps to build lean muscle mass, which increases metabolism and burns more calories throughout the day. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can also be effective for endomorphs, as it promotes fat burning and cardiovascular health.

It’s important to note that while endomorphs may face challenges in achieving their desired body composition, their body type also has its advantages. Endomorphs tend to have a higher level of strength and power due to their muscular build, which can be advantageous in certain sports and activities.

In summary, endomorphs are characterized by their curvy and rounded body structure, high body fat percentage, and slower metabolism. To manage weight and promote overall health, endomorphs need to adopt a specific approach to training and nutrition, including a higher protein diet and regular exercise that includes weight training and cardio.

Best Exercises for Endomorphs:

Endomorphs can benefit from a mix of cardiovascular and strength training exercises to promote weight loss, build lean muscle mass, and increase metabolism. Here are some exercises that endomorphs may find particularly beneficial:

Resistance Training: Endomorphs should prioritize resistance training with weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises. These exercises help build lean muscle mass, which increases metabolism and helps burn more calories throughout the day. Endomorphs can benefit from exercises such as squats, deadlifts, lunges, push-ups, pull-ups, and planks.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT involves short, intense bursts of activity followed by periods of rest. This type of exercise can help endomorphs burn more calories and increase their metabolism. Examples of HIIT exercises include sprints, jumping jacks, and burpees.

Cardiovascular Exercise: Endomorphs should include cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to increase their heart rate and burn calories. Cardiovascular exercise can also improve heart health and overall fitness levels.

Core Strengthening: Core strengthening exercises such as crunches, sit-ups, and planks can help endomorphs build a strong core, which can improve posture, balance, and stability.

Yoga: Yoga can be an effective exercise for endomorphs, as it combines strength training, flexibility, and relaxation. Yoga can also help reduce stress and promote mental wellbeing.

It’s important for endomorphs to engage in a variety of exercises to avoid boredom and promote overall fitness. A combination of resistance training, HIIT, cardiovascular exercise, core strengthening, and yoga can provide a well-rounded fitness routine for endomorphs. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or certified personal trainer before starting a new exercise routine to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Diet Recommendations for Endomorphs:

Endomorphs tend to have a slower metabolism and a greater propensity for storing body fat, making it important to follow a healthy and balanced diet to support weight management and overall health. Here are some dietary recommendations for endomorphs:

High Protein Intake: Endomorphs should aim to consume a diet that is high in protein to help promote satiety and build lean muscle mass. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and legumes.

Low Carbohydrate Intake: Endomorphs may benefit from reducing their carbohydrate intake, particularly from refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks. Instead, focus on consuming complex carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Fiber Intake: Endomorphs should consume a diet that is high in fiber, as this can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce cravings. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Healthy Fats: Endomorphs should include healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds in their diet. Healthy fats can help promote satiety and reduce inflammation in the body.

Portion Control: Endomorphs should pay attention to portion sizes, as overeating can lead to weight gain. Consider using smaller plates and measuring portion sizes to help control calorie intake.

Meal Timing: Endomorphs may benefit from consuming smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings.

Hydration: Endomorphs should drink plenty of water throughout the day to help support weight management and overall health.

It’s important for endomorphs to focus on consuming a balanced and healthy diet, while also considering their individual dietary needs and preferences. Consulting with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional can help endomorphs create a personalized and sustainable meal plan to support their health and fitness goals.

Embracing Your Unique Body Type: Why it Matters

Your body type is unique to you, and it plays an important role in your fitness journey. By understanding your body type and adopting the right approach to training and nutrition, you can optimize your fitness goals and achieve the results you desire. While it’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness.

Embracing your unique body type can help you achieve greater self-acceptance, confidence, and motivation in your fitness journey. Rather than trying to fit into a specific body type mold, focus on finding a training and nutrition plan that works best for your individual needs and preferences. This will not only help you achieve your fitness goals, but also promote long-term health and wellness.

Remember, your body type is just one aspect of your overall health, and it’s important to approach fitness with a holistic mindset. This means prioritizing your physical, mental, and emotional health, and focusing on creating sustainable lifestyle habits that support your overall wellbeing.

In conclusion, embracing your unique body type can help you achieve greater success and satisfaction in your fitness journey. By understanding and working with your body type, rather than against it, you can optimize your fitness results and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Nutrition

Amino Acids that Promote Growth

By RunThaCity — 7 years ago

Ornithine

What Is Ornithine?

This is one of the amino acids that promote growth which is derived from arginine. Large quantities of which have successfully raised growth hormone levels in some studies. Bucci, et al, studied the effect of 40, 100 and 170 mg/kg of L-ornithine HCl on 12 bodybuilders. Twenty- five percent of the subjects experienced significant increases in serum growth hormone levels at the two lower doses. In the other hand, half the subjects illustrated an increase in growth hormone at the highest dose.

Arginine

What Is Arginine?

Arginine is an semi-essential amino acid and is present in the proteins of all life forms. It is classified as a conditionally essential or semi-essential amino acid because under normal conditions the body can produce sufficient quantities of amino acid arginine to meet physiological demands. However, in times of stress conditions such as wound healing and trauma, the body might not be able to manufacture enough. In these cases, amino acid arginine becomes essential and is very important to ensure sufficient dietary intake of the amino acid to meet the increased physiological demands shaped by these conditions.

What Does L-Arginine Do?

Arginine although not an essential amino acid, is a vital one. In addition to contributing in protein synthesis, it plays a number of other important roles in the body. Arginine’s primary function entails the metabolism of proteins and nitrogen. It also detoxifies ammonia formed during nitrogen catabolism of amino acids through the formation of urea. It is also a forerunner in the formation of polyamines, creatine, nitric oxide, proline, glutamate, agmatin, and the arginine-containing tetrapeptide tuftsin which is believed to be an immunomodulator. Arginine is also a glycogenic amino acid. If needed by the body, it can be converted to D-glucose and glycogen or can be catabolized to manufacture biological energy.

Arginine when taken in high doses stimulates pituitary release of growth hormones, prolactin and pancreatic release of glucagon and insulin. It is also used as an immunonutrient in parenteral and enteral nutrition to aid improvement of the immune status of those suffering from burns, sepsis, and trauma.

L-Arginine Rich Foods

Arginine is predominately manufactured in the kidney. It is a main intermediary in the Krebs-Henseleit urea cycle. A much smaller amount of this amino acid is synthesized in the liver. The normal dietary intake of arginine is 3.5 to 5 grams daily and most dietary arginine comes from animal and plant proteins. Arginine of small amounts can be found in vegetable juices and fermented foods, such as yogurt and miso. Plant proteins such as soy proteins and other plant proteins are richer in arginine than animal proteins which are richer in lycine. Arginine can also be found in dairy products, meat, poultry, nuts, fish, and chocolate. Other natural sources of arginine are brown rice, raisins, popcorn, and whole-wheat products.

Benefits of L-Arginine

Arginine has a maximum potential in preventing or reducing cardiovascular diseases, by stimulating a compound that relaxes the blood vessels called nitric oxide. It is also used to enhance memory, eliminate depression, improve sleep, control stress, prevent aging, relieve arthritis, manage allergies, promote hair growth, cure impotence, fight cancer, reduce herpes, combat fatigue, and stimulate the immune system. The normal supplemental dosage of arginine per day is 2 to 8 grams.

Does L-Arginine Help Muscle Growth?

Investigated in numerous studies with conflicting results, this is one of the amino acids that promote growth. Take for example, in one study, 6 subjects were given 6 grams of arginine. They all experienced a 100% increase in plasma levels without any growth hormone release. Other researchers administered it to 12 young and 5 elderly non-obese adults, all of whom had a body mass of less than 30. The subjects participated in three trials: resistive weight-lifting exercise with no placebo, 5 grams of arginine supplementation prior to exercise and 5 grams of oral L-arginine only.

Lysine

What Is Lysine?

Lysine is an essential amino acid which is vital to human health but cannot be synthesized by the human body. This is the reason why amino acid lysine must be obtained from your food diet. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and proteins are greatly needed by the body for muscle growth. Lysine plays an important role in the production of a nutrient that is responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helps lower cholesterol.

What Does Lysine Do?

Lysine also shows to help the body in absorbing and conserving calcium. It also plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, an important substance for the bones and connective tissues that includes the skin, cartilage and tendon.

Insufficient lysine in the diet may cause health problems such as kidney stones that may develop other health problems including loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, agitation, slow growth, anemia, reproductive disorders, and bloodshot eyes. However, it is very rare to get insufficient amounts of lysine through the daily diet. Lysine deficiency would normally only apply to vegetarians and certain athletes who are in frequent vigorous exercise. Vegetarians would get the best source of lysine in legumes such as peas, lentils, and beans.

In foods such as pastries, cookies, doughnuts, and cereals, the browning reaction involves lysine. In this process of lysine and sugar being combined makes it in a way difficult for the body to absorb lysine, resulting to low lysine intake in cereals and baked goods diet. Good food sources of lysine are those foods rich in protein which includes meat, cheese, nuts, eggs, certain fish, soybeans, fenugreek seed, and spirulina.

What Is Lysine Used For?

Lysine can be used in the treatment of genital and mouth lesions caused by herpes simplex virus as well as shingles caused by herpes zoster viruses. Lysine supplements taken can speed up recovery time and reduce the possibility of repeated breakouts of the herpes infection. Amino acid lysine also improves the absorption of calcium from the digestive tract and avoids loss of calcium in the urine, which some researchers have speculated that bone loss associated with osteoporosis can be prevented through the help of lysine. In studies where lysine has been combined with arginine showed that it increases the activity of bone-building cells and improves production of collagen.

Some forms of lysine or lysine bound to anti-inflammatory medications may help ease pain following an episiotomy, a medical procedure performed during labor that is a procedure of cutting the vaginal area to enlarge the vaginal opening and facilitate delivery. Lysine of these forms may also relieve painful periods and migraine headaches.

How Much Lysine To Take

Most people need about 1 gram of lysine per day. For athletes and people recovering from major injuries such as burns may be required a greater amount.

Does Lysine Promote Muscle Growth?

One of the amino acids that promote growth, lysine may work to release growth hormone. In a study of 15 healthy male subjects, there was a
separate consumption of lysine as single nutrients did not significantly increase growth hormone compared to the baseline. In another study of normal young males, oral administration of 1,200 milligrams of L-lysine did not raise serum growth hormone levels.

Glycine

What Is Glycine?

Glycine is a protein amino acid that can be found in the protein of all life forms and is important in the body’s construction of proteins. Glycine is the simplest amino acid in the body that is not optically active. In contrast to other amino acids, glycine can be found in both enzymes and proteins. Although glycine is found mostly in proteins, glycine is also found in plants. It is estimated that the normal diet should include two grams of glycine daily.

What Does Glycine Do?

Since amino acid glycine can be sufficiently produced by the body to meet physiological requirements, it is considered a nonessential amino acid. However, it is of key importance in the synthesis of proteins, purines, peptides, nucleic acids, porphyrins, hemoglobin, creatine, glucose, one-carbon fragments, L-serine, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and other amino acids.

Amino acid Glycine performs as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord. It plays vital roles in the method of prevention for muscular degeneration, repair of damaged tissues located throughout the body, and improvement of glycogen storage. Glycine is an important amino acid because if needed, it will synthesize and convert from serine and threonine to fulfill its physiological processes.

Glycine is a solid water-soluble substance that has a sweetish taste and is also known as amino acetic acid, glycocoll, sucre de gelatine, and aminoethanolic acid. Its one-letter abbreviation when spelling out protein structures is G and its IUPAC abbreviation is Gly.

Glycine Rich Foods

Glycine can also be found in natural food sources. Natural food sources containing high amounts of glycine includes fish, beans, dairy products, and meats. Here are food sources of glycine that are based on a serving size of 100 g and the amount of glycine contained is expressed in milligrams:

Vegetable Products

Seaweed, spirulina (dried) 3100 mg

Nut and Seed Products

Seeds, cottonseed meal (partially defatted, glandless) 2380 mg

Seeds, sunflower seed flour (partially defatted) 3080 mg

Seeds, sesame flour (low-fat) 3430 mg

Seeds, pumpkin and squash seed kernels (roasted without salt) 2410 mg

Legume Products

Soy protein concentrate (produced by alcohol extraction) 2690 mg

Peanut flour (defatted) 3150 mg

Soy protein isolate (potassium type) 3600mg

Soy protein concentrate (produced by acid wash) 2690 mg

Soy protein isolate 3600 mg

Shellfish and Finfish Products

Fish, cod, Atlantic (dried and salted) 3010 mg

Poultry Products

Chicken, broilers or fryers, skin only (cooked, roasted) 3250 mg

Turkey, all classes, skin only (cooked, roasted) 3140mg

Turkey, young tom, skin only (cooked, roasted) 3210 mg

Beef Products

Beef, cured, breakfast strips (cooked) 2610 mg

Pork Products

Pork, fresh, variety meats and by-products, ears, frozen (Cooked, simmered) 3140 mg

Pork, fresh, variety meats and by-products, ears, frozen (raw) 4400 mg

Veal, Lamb, and Game Products

Veal, variety meats and by-products, liver (cooked, braised calf liver) 2290 mg

Luncheon Meats and Sausages

Beef, cured, corned beef, canned 2260 mg

Egg and Dairy Products

Egg, white (dried) 2840 mg

Snacks

Snacks, pork skins (plain) 11900 mg

Sweets

Gelatins, dry powder (unsweetened) 19100 mg

Beverages

Gelatin, drinking, orange flavor (powder) 9670 mg

Does Glycine Promote Muscle Growth?

It may be the non- essentials but this is also one of the amino acids that promote growth. Glycine is contained in gelatin protein and is an important component of collagen. Although much of the early research revolved around its ability to increase strength in athletes, more recent studies have documented that it can indeed raise growth hormone levels in humans. As a matter of fact, researchers have concluded that the explanation why it has been found to increase muscle strength in many studies may be the result of its growth-hormone-boosting capabilities.

Glutamine

What Is Glutamine?

Glutamine is an amino acid that allows for improved immune system and brain function, balanced blood sugar levels, digestive tract health, and increased muscle mass.

What Is Glutamine Used For?

Glutamine is used as fuel for immune system and intestinal cellular replication. Maintaining the proper levels of glutamine supports immune system activity while strengthening the intestinal lining. In addition to this, glutamine is important to replenishing glycogen (stored energy) in muscle tissue, and maintaining muscle mass and strength.

Glutamine also plays an important role in maintaining healthy brain function as a source of energy for the nervous system, a key factor in the production of brain neurotransmitters, and an ammonia detoxifier.

Does Glutamine Promote Muscle Growth?

An abundant protein block- builder, this is one of the amino acids that promote growth. Glutamine is the most copious in human muscle and plasma. It directly regulates both the production and wearing-down of protein and immune cell activity. When about nine healthy subjects consumed two grams of oral glutamine 45 minutes after a light breakfast, there were eight out of the nine that subjects experienced elevated plasma growth hormone within 90 minutes. These findings demonstrate, the study authors wrote, that a surprisingly small oral glutamine load is capable of elevating hormones for development.