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The Ultimate Muscle Building Supplement Guide

By February 2, 2023 March 18th, 2023 No Comments
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The Ultimate Muscle Building Supplement Guide

 

Building muscle is not just about looking good, it has many physical and mental health benefits. From improving your posture, reducing the risk of injury, and boosting your metabolism, to increasing your confidence and self-esteem, building muscle is an investment in your overall health and well-being.

While a balanced diet and consistent workout routine are essential for building muscle, supplements can help you reach your goals faster and more efficiently. They can help fill in nutrient gaps, enhance recovery and reduce muscle soreness, and provide a convenient source of protein and other nutrients needed for muscle growth.

It is important to choose supplements that are backed by science and proven to be effective. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know what to choose. In this article, we will discuss the best muscle building supplements to help you maximize your gains and take your workout to the next level.

The Science of Building Muscle

Combining proper diet, resistance training, and adequate recovery: While there is no single supplement that can replace the need for a balanced diet and resistance training, certain supplements can enhance the muscle building process and maximize results.

Protein for Muscle Building: Protein is an essential macronutrient for muscle building, as it provides the building blocks for muscle repair and growth. Consuming adequate protein before and after resistance training can enhance muscle protein synthesis, leading to greater muscle gains over time.

Resistance Training: Resistance training, such as weightlifting, is necessary for building muscle. During resistance training, muscle fibers are broken down and then repaired during the recovery process, leading to an increase in muscle size and strength.

The importance of Adequate Recovery: Adequate recovery, including rest and proper nutrition, is crucial for muscle growth. During recovery, damaged muscle fibers are repaired and rebuilt, leading to an increase in muscle size and strength. Consuming a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and incorporating active recovery techniques such as stretching or yoga can enhance the muscle building process.

 

Whey Protein & Creatine

Lets start with the basics...

Protein: Whey Protein is a high-quality protein that is easily absorbed by the body and is a crucial component in building muscle. It helps to increase muscle protein synthesis, repair damaged muscle tissue, and support muscle recovery. 

Creatine: Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that is stored in muscle cells. It helps to increase energy production and support muscle growth by providing the body with more energy during high-intensity workouts. 

Combining whey protein and creatine provides your body with the necessary building blocks for muscle growth and repair. This combination can help improve overall workout performance, increase muscle size and strength, and speed up recovery time. 

Here are some of our favorite protein supplements:

  1. Bio-Active Whey by Isatori - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/bio-active-whey-by-isatori
  2. Isomorph by APS Nutrition - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/isomorph-by-aps-nutrition

Here are some of the most effective creatine supplements:

  1. JetMASS by GAT Sport - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/jetmass-creatine-by-german-american-technologies-gat
  2. Creatine HCL by SNS - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/creatine-hci-by-serious-nutrition-solutions-120-caps

 

Pre-Workouts & Nitric Oxide Boosters

Pre-workout supplements are designed to help increase energy, focus, and endurance, allowing you to push harder and longer in the gym. They often contain a blend of ingredients like caffeine, beta-alanine, and amino acids, which can help increase blood flow, reduce fatigue, and improve mental clarity.

Nitric oxide boosters are supplements that increase the production of nitric oxide in the body, which helps improve blood flow, oxygen delivery, and nutrient uptake to the muscles. This can lead to better pump, increased endurance, and faster recovery. Nitric oxide boosters often contain ingredients like arginine, citrulline, and beetroot extract.

  1. Wild Thing by Assault Labs - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/wild-thing-by-assault-labs
  2. Seismic Surge by Hard Rock Supplements - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/seismic-surge-by-hard-rock-supplements
  3. SuperHuman Supreme by Alpha Lion - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/superhuman-supreme-hardcore-stim-pre-workout-by-alpha-lion

Note: It is important to follow the recommended dosages and to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

Natural Anabolics

Natural anabolics refer to dietary supplements and foods that contain compounds that can enhance the muscle building process in a natural way. Unlike hormonal anabolics, natural anabolics are safe, legal, and do not have adverse side effects.

  • Turkesterone: Turkesterone is a plant-based anabolic compound that has been shown to increase protein synthesis and muscle growth. It is found in the ajuga turkestanica plant and is commonly used as a natural alternative to traditional anabolic steroids. 
  • Epicatechin: Epicatechin is a flavonoid found in dark chocolate and green tea that has been shown to improve muscle growth and athletic performance. It works by increasing nitric oxide production and inhibiting myostatin, a protein that limits muscle growth. 
  • HICA: HICA is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine that has been shown to enhance muscle growth and reduce muscle damage and soreness. It is commonly used as a post-workout supplement to support muscle recovery and growth. 
  • Deer Antler Velvet (IGF-1): Deer Antler Velvet is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to enhance overall health and athletic performance. It contains Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that stimulates muscle growth and recovery. Although research on the effects of deer antler velvet is limited, it is considered a promising natural anabolic. 
  • Kaempferia Parviflora aka PhytoFUSE: This herb, also known as Black Ginger, has been shown to improve exercise performance and increase muscle mass in research studies. In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, participants who took Kaempferia Parviflora supplements saw an improvement in muscle size, strength, and power compared to a placebo group.
  • α-Cedrene: This ingredient is a natural compound found in cedarwood oil and has been found to have anabolic effects in animal studies. In a study published in the Journal of Natural Products, α-cedrene increased muscle mass and improved endurance in mice.
  • α-Ionone: A natural compound found in certain essential oils, α-ionone has been found to have anabolic effects in animal studies. In a study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences, α-ionone was shown to increase muscle mass and improve exercise performance in mice.

Here are some of our personal favorites:

  1. AnaFuse by Vital Alchemy - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/anafuse-by-vital-labs
  2. AlphaBulk by Olympus Labs - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/alphabulk-by-olympus-labs
  3. Colossal Muscle by Hard rock Supplements - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/colossal-muscle-by-hard-rock-supplements
  4. Androgin by Black Lion Research - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/androgin-by-black-lion-research

Natural Testosterone Boosters

Natural testosterone boosters are supplements that are designed to increase testosterone levels in the body through the use of natural ingredients. These ingredients include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids that are known to have a positive impact on testosterone production.

Testosterone is a crucial hormone for muscle growth, strength, and overall well-being. By increasing testosterone levels, natural testosterone boosters can help to improve muscle growth, boost energy, increase libido, and enhance overall athletic performance.

  • Bulbine: This ingredient has been shown to increase testosterone levels and improve libido in animal studies.
  • Tribulus: This herb has been traditionally used for increasing testosterone and libido, however, human studies have not shown significant effects on testosterone levels.
  • D-Aspartic Acid: This amino acid has been shown to increase testosterone levels in short-term studies.
  • Fenugreek: This herb has been traditionally used for increasing testosterone and libido, but human studies have not shown significant effects on testosterone levels.

Here are some of our Top-Ranking Test Boosters:

  1. DAA Max by Vital Alchemy - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/daa-max-by-vital-labs
  2. Sergeant Steel by Assault Labs - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/sergeant-steel-by-assault-labs
  3. Superhuman Test by Alpha Lion - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/superhuman-test-by-alpha-lion
  4. Testoshred by EPG - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/testoshred-by-epg

 

Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are a group of essential amino acids that are critical for muscle growth and recovery. BCAAs include leucine, isoleucine, and valine and play an important role in muscle protein synthesis and preventing muscle breakdown.

Studies have shown that supplementing with BCAAs can enhance muscle growth, improve exercise performance, reduce muscle soreness, and increase muscle endurance. BCAAs have also been shown to enhance fat loss and support weight management. 

The recommended daily dosage of BCAAs ranges from 4-10 grams and is typically taken before, during, or after exercise. Some studies have also shown that taking BCAAs in the morning or before bed can enhance muscle growth and recovery. 

  1. Asylum Anytime BCAA by Psycho Pharma - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/asylum-anytime-bcaa-by-psycho-pharma
  2. Resurgence by Blackstone Labs - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/resurgence-by-blackstone-labs
  3. Amino2 by Myogenix - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/amino2-by-myogenix

 

Additional Supplements Worth Mentioning

In addition to the key supplements discussed above, there are several other options that can provide various benefits for muscle building and overall fitness.

  • Multi-Vitamins: A daily multi-vitamin can help ensure adequate intake of important nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, necessary for muscle growth and overall health.
  • Joint Support: For individuals who engage in heavy weightlifting and intense physical activity, joint support supplements can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility. Ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM have been shown to support joint health.
  • Glutamine: Glutamine is an amino acid that has been shown to greatly improve muscle recovery and reduce muscle breakdown during intense exercise. It can also boost the immune system and support gut health.
  • ZMA: ZMA or zinc-magnesium-aspartate, is a combination of vitamins and minerals that can help improve muscle strength and endurance, enhance recovery, and improve sleep quality.
  • Sleep Aid/Natural Growth Hormone Boosters: Getting adequate sleep is important for muscle recovery and growth, as growth hormone is primarily produced during deep sleep. Sleep aids and natural growth hormone boosters, such as melatonin and L-theanine, can help improve sleep quality and support overall muscle growth.
  1. Myovite by Myogenix - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/myovite-by-myogenix-44-pack
  2. Joyful Joints by Vital Alchemy - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/joyful-joints-by-vl
  3. Youth GH by Vital Alchemy - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/youth-gh-by-vital-alchemy

 

 

A solid postworkout and recovery protocol will greatly help in keeping you on track with your fitness goals. A well balanced all-in-one postworkout supplement will include daily vitamins, amino acids, glutamine, and a few of the other highly beneficial ingredients mentioned above. Aftershock post-workout is our GO-TO for post-workout recovery:

Aftershock Post Workout by Myogenix - https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/after-shock-post-workout-by-myogenix

 

In Conclusion:

Building muscle can be a challenging and time-consuming trial and error process, but with the right combination of exercise, diet, and supplements, you can reach your goals much faster and more effectively. There are many different supplements available that can help you maximize your muscle gains, from traditional products like whey protein and creatine, to newer, cutting-edge ingredients like natural anabolics and testosterone boosters.

It's important to remember that no single supplement will work for everyone, and that everyone's goals and body type are different. It's also important to do your own research, talk to a doctor or a trusted fitness professional, and listen to your body to determine what works best for you.

With the right combination of exercise, diet, and supplements, you can take your workout to the next level, build the body you've always wanted, and achieve the results you've been working so hard for. So don't be afraid to experiment, try new things, and see what works best for you. A solid  supplement stack can make all the difference in your muscle-building journey, and can help you get the results you've been striving for.

 

Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob

Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard has written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. His personal blog is www.leonardshemtob.com

 

References:

  1. Cermak, N. M., Res, P. T., de Groot, L. C., Saris, W. H., & van Loon, L. J. (2012). Protein supplementation augments the adaptive response of skeletal muscle to resistance-type exercise training: a meta-analysis. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 96(6), 1454-1464. 

  2. Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 18. 

  3. Gonzalez, A. M., & Trexler, E. T. (2020). Effects of citrulline supplementation on exercise performance in humans: a review of the current literature. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 34(5), 1480-1495. 

  4. Syrotuik, D. G., & Bell, G. J. (2004). Acute creatine monohydrate supplementation: a descriptive physiological profile of responders vs. nonresponders. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 18(3), 610. 

  5. Kraemer, W. J., & Ratamess, N. A. (2005). Hormonal responses and adaptations to resistance exercise and training. Sports Medicine, 35(4), 339-361. 

  6. Jackman, S. R., Witard, O. C., Jeukendrup, A. E., & Tipton, K. D. (2010). Branched-chain amino acid ingestion can ameliorate soreness from eccentric exercise. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 42(5), 962-970. 

  7. Jäger, R., Kerksick, C. M., Campbell, B. I., Cribb, P. J., Wells, S. D., Skwiat, T. M., ... & Smith-Ryan, A. E. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 20.

  8. Kreider, R. B., Wilborn, C. D., Taylor, L., Campbell, B., Almada, A. L., Collins, R., ... & Kerksick, C. M. (2010). ISSN exercise & sport nutrition review: research & recommendations. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 7(1), 7.

 

 

 

Sponsored By Leonard Shemtob

https://leonardshemtob.com/

Leonard Shemtob

Leonard Shemtob

Leonard Shemtob is the President and CEO of Strong Supplements. Leonard has written countless articles on fitness, spirituality and other topics of interest. Leonard Shemtob enjoys yoga, weight lifting, meditation and spending time with his family. You can read more about him on his blog at www.leonardshemtob.com