Week 194 :: How Can One Filter Out Which Supplements Are Safe And Unsafe For Them?

[the_fake_webmaster]

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* Note: How can I win? 1. Answer all questions in the order that they are asked. 2. Go over reviews (located at the bottom of past TOTW articles) and see what was said about those that did not win. Good Luck!
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TOPIC: How Can One Filter Out Which Supplements Are Safe And Unsafe For Them?

For the week of: March 19th - March 24th
Tuesday @ Midnight Is The Final Cut (Mountain Time, US & Canada).

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There are a lot of supplements on the market that are targeted to older or more advanced fitness enthusiasts, however, there are younger and more inexperienced athletes who find these same supplements desirable.

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

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Don't discuss any other topic in this section. ONLY discuss the question above.

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[blazing_hellion]

Many supplements out there can be very beneficial. But on the other hand, since there is no way to tell if everyone will react the same way to one supplement, there are some people who may have a slight unforeseen and consequential result.

One of the best ways to figure out how something will effect you, is to simply try it. Although you shouldn't grab all the supplements that you plan to take and just take all of them at once. It is best to get them one at a time and take it alone. The reason for this is because if you take four things at a time, and one of them happen to effect you badly, you will have no real way of figuring out which one it is that is causing the issue. Given some random chance it could actually be them acting together that is effecting you. This is why it is best to try each type of supplement by itself. Also it is important to read the label to make sure there is nothing that you are allergic to. Usually it can be the capsule that has an ingredient that you may be allergic to. Some multi vitamins actually contain shellfish extracts to help with health, so its important to make sure there is nothing in the supplement that you are allergic to.

For what is safe for just about anyone, basic multi vitamins are a good bet. Something a little general will for the most part be alright for everyone. Its when you get into the more specific type of multi vitamins that have added stuff that you have to be careful of. Also protein powders are also generally safe. Now if you are lactose intolerant, they have lactose free protein supps out there for you.

Some supplements that people should be careful with are just about anything that effects your bodily functions. By this I mean things like fat burners, testosterone boosters, things of that nature. While they are not bad at all, some people can have a adverse effect to them. This is why it is best to test it out first before you fully go and start taking it. You don't want to grab a fat burner and go nuts on it, because it can cause bad things to happen if you are not careful. Although most likely it would be because you overdosed on it, and trust me you do not want that to happen to you. Another type you should be cautious of is caffeine supplements. The reason for this being is because stimulants can make your body twitchy, and also might strain your adrenals if you are not careful. Since many people already drink soda, tea, coffee, things of that nature, you are already getting caffeine in your diet, just make sure you are careful and dont hurt yourself with anything.

[skaffer]

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

Over the counter supplements are generally safe for everyone. The obvious first step is to check for any ingredients in the product that you are allergic to. For example if you are lactose intolerant, whey protein is not a very good option, you'd be better off with an egg, soy or beef based protien. Also make sure the product that you are buying is for your needs. If you are overweight a weight gainer is not safe because you will most likely be gaining too much fat and becoming an unhealthy body weight and vice versa if you are skinny. Also if you are malnurished a meal replacement supplement is not the best choice, a mutlivitamin and mutli-mineral would be the best choice. Also buy products with ingredients you know about, a lot of companies use fillers so your best option is to research supplements you want to take then buy them in their 100% pure form so you know exactly what and how much of it you are getting. In a proprietary blend they do not have to tell you how much they are putting in. This includes all products with little exceptions, even natural test boosters are safe when they use plant extracts so they are better than taking steroids in that sense. Of course supplementation is meant for those above 18 because your body is generally done growing. Fat burners are also a lot better now because they can no longer contain ephedrine and dangerous ingredients are generally taken off the markey by the FDA, but when taking things like fat burners you have to remember to stay hydrated. So mainly know what a product does before taking it and this should help you prevent any complications.

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

Some safe supplements(when not abused like any other substance) people can take are and not limited to; Any protein powder, creatine, branch chained amino acids, carbohydrates supplements, multivitamins and multiminerals, glutamine, taurine, caffeine, flax seed oil, fish oil or any other sources of healthy fats, vitamin b complex and arginine. Although not all are necessary choosing which ones you need is essential to supplementing a proper diet.

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

Supplements with lots of ingredients should be avoided. A patented name could mean almost anything "time released chemical x complex" can mean some white bread crumbs and whole grain breadcrumbs that are digested at different rates. Proprietary blends can be almost anything at any ratio, with these you do not know what you are getting. So it is best to stick 100% pure ingredients.

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

Some very trusted companies, even though some have blends their blends are quality ingredients include: Optimum nutrition, Maximum Human Potential, Dymatize, Scivation, Nutricor Labs, NOW, Nutiva, Allmax and Muscle Tech.

[funktronik]

There are a lot of supplements on the market that are targeted to older or more advanced fitness enthusiasts, however, there are younger and more inexperienced athletes who find these same supplements desirable.

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

It seems that everywhere we look, the marketing masters have found a new piece of real estate on which to grab our attention, pull us in, mesmerize and seduce us with the latest celebrity gossip, fad diet, and of course...miracle supplements! Get ripped, get massive, get sleek, get energy, GET SEXY! You name it, there's a pill for it. With all these supplement companies vying for our hard earned cash, who can you trust? Who's looking out for number one? Who's got my back? The answer my friends is no one. Well, your Mom doesn't count!

With such a plethora of every imaginable supplement to do every imaginable thing one might have trouble imagining a manageable way through this mess! Fear not because with great freedom comes great responsibility-meaning that our free market society allows us to have an insane amount of the most amazing concoctions so it is our responsibility to thoroughly protect ourselves with a little research. Don't worry, I'm here to help.

Before considering supplementation please understand that supps. are ALL designed to work in conjunction with an exercise and diet plan. No one has created that magic fitness model pill that activates only when your butt is firmly planted on the couch. Once you have an exercise and diet regime dialed in,though, proper supplementation can kick your progress into high gear!

The first step would be to always read the label and all literature provided with any supplement you might be interested in consuming. The second step, for liability and practical reasons, is to talk to your doctor about any supplements that may interest you. Most likely your doctor will have good insight into your personal health needs and be able to help you steer clear of any supplements that propose a possible danger to your well being.

Ok, now that the legal stuff is out of the way, I realize that most of us don't regularly see a private doctor. We may not even know somebody who knows about supplements! So what do we do? I wouldn't suggest just walking in to the local GNC, for that can be an overwhelming experience for the newbie. What I would suggest is exactly what you are doing right now! Reading bodybuilding.com articles. Surf around and find bodyspace members that inspire you and read what their taking. The more you do, the more you will find similarities in basic supplements such as whey protein and creatine. You will notice what the more hardcore guys are taking like nitric oxide or anabolic stimulants. What I love about bodybuilding.com is that every time a supplement is mentioned, its name is a link to literature on that product!

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

I consider a safe supplement to be something outside your regular diet that you can add to your diet in any amount without fear of uncomfortable side effects. The number one most popular and safe supplement is hands down, whey protein. Protein is used to build muscle and since most people agree that you must consume between one and two grams per pound of your body weight in order to grow, it definitely pays to add whey protein to your diet. Number two on my list of safe supps is multi vitamins. The RDA or recommended daily allowance that is printed on every piece of food showing all the vitamins and minerals within it......zzzzzzz. I think I just fell asleep, sorry! The RDA is a set amount to keep you awake, alive and kicking...barely. What a joke. More like Really Dumb Amount. Take lots of multi's!! Take them multi times a day, but hey, don't just take my word for it. Look up what all the vitamins and minerals do and you will agree with me. My third favorite safe supplement is Omega-3 fish oil pills. The good fats in those help with everything from fat loss to immune system support. Fish oil pills even come enteric coated so you don't have fishy burps...YUCK!! Lastly, I don't think most people think of it as a supplement, but WATER is not to be forgotten. About a gallon a day is the bodybuilder's way!

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

Be leery of any supplement that purports to physically change your body composition without exercise. That is always a marketing scam! As for the real supplements... be cautious with everything you put in your body. I would recommend being extra careful with stimulants; caffeine, ephedra or ephadrine, yohimbe, and many others contained within the fat loss and pre workout energy supplements. These cause dehydration, rise in blood pressure, and agitation. I would be very careful with anything that effects hormones; testosterone or testosterone stimulators. Steroids are bad, mmmm k? Were talking cancer bad. I don't even trust things that "boost" my testosterone.

It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

As amateur and professional bodybuilders, we are very lucky to have resources such as Bodybuilding.com to review, rate, and discuss supplements and their companies. Just go to the super store and look at the link to the top 50 supplements! That's a great start. It is safe to assume the more popular supplements are accepted by more people so those are a good list to go from and have piece of mind that odds are you will find success as many have before you. So go forth, do your research young warrior, and reap the benefits of knowledge. Nothing feels better than changing faster than everyone else at the gym because you know how to properly supplement yourself!!

By Justin Loeffler

[Butterfly09]

http://www.consumerlab.com/

[AlphaStyles]

just wikipedia every ingredient on the label. (good luck on doing that for nanovapor lol)

[timkim4789]

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

The best way for a young athlete to begin taking supplements is to research what seems to be a common supplement, either by searching the forums on bodybuilding.com, talking to the experienced lifters at the gym, or even a friend who has taken a supplement before. The common supplements tend to be on the safe side since the majority is able to take them without any problems. For example, it is more common for people to take whey protein than it is to take HGH. Prior to taking any supplement, a young athlete should know which chemicals the supplement is comprised of.
If you are taking any prescription medication, check with your doctor to ensure that none of the chemicals of the supplement will react it. Also, make sure you aren't allergic to any of the chemicals. The last stage to determine the safety of a supplement is to take it, and if any unwanted side effects occur, stop taking it immediately. However, with most supplements there is a health risk because not many long term studies have been done on them. It is just a matter of how much you are willing to risk to get the results you want.

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

There is no basic supplement that is safe for everybody, but there are some that seem to be safe for most people. Once again, these seem to be the more common supplements such as whey protein. Most of the supplements that we can also derive from our diet are usually safe for people to take. However, we must make sure that we don't take too much of any supplement no matter how safe we think it is. People can even die from drinking too much water!

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

People should be cautious of supplements that may be detrimental to their lifestyles. They should know the function of their supplement and how it can affect them. For example, if a person with a high protein diet doesn't intake enough fiber and continues to supplement with protein, they will eventually get bowel discomfort due to the imbalance in their diet.
People should also be aware of the risks involved when they are stacking different supplements. Some supplements that are supposed to have different effects may end up containing some of the same ingredients and a constant bombardment of supplements may end up overworking the kidneys and lead to kidney failure or another health problem.
Also be sure to follow any extra instructions on the supplement label. For instance, if you stack creatine and nitric oxide at the same time, make sure you drink a sufficient amount of water to stay hydrated because both of those supplements require you to drink more water than you normally would.

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

In general, the most advanced supplement companies are usually the ones which have the best selling products such as Optimum Nutrition, BSN, Muscletech, etc. As they get more money, they will be able to conduct more research to better their product so that they can continue to have the best product out there. The only bad thing is that a company might raise the price of their product if they know that it is the best. If you feel a product is overpriced, just look at the price per serving ratio on the bodybuilding store and compare different products to see which seems to suit you the best.

[jgreable]

Week 194 :: How Can One Filter Out Which Supplements Are Safe And Unsafe For Them?

Filtering out which supplements are safe and unsafe for oneself is very complicated. Most people see individuals results in magazines rather than reading the results not typical in fine print. There are three major factors age, condition of health, and how much you know about what you are putting in your body. These three factors can limit am individual when they walk into their hometown gnc or vitamin shoppe to the main areas of focus.

As far as age most supplements such as testosterone boosters are designed for people over the age of 23 when levels of testosterone start to level off and decrease. People in their teens really only need a rigorous workout with a good multi-vitamin, high protein intake, and maybe a workout intensifier like superpump by gaspari nutrition. Their metabolism is relatively high or capable of increasing easily with proper diet and exercise. For those that are getting a little older they could use some extra amino acids and a testosterone boost to get their body in shape because everything slows with age. Taking a thermogenic to loose weight is very benifitial because it helps to give them energy along with burning the pockets of fat they have occured with age.

Having health problems and a lot of extra weight can limit those who want to lose a lot of weight to few supplements. If you have heart problems it is not recommended to overdose your body with caffeine which powers most fat burners. If you have problems with drinking water on a daily basis I would recommended not taking a pill form of a supplement due to the fact your harming your kidneys. Most supplements have a drinkable form which usually activates faster and has a prolonged effect. With that being said it is still necessary to drink water daily.

Research is the number one way to find the good from the bad. The internet is the number one source. People have put supplement reviews to show the good and the bad. Wikipedia can help to show the effects of certain ingredients . Most importantly to actually get the full effect of supplements you have to read the label on the back. People need to pay attention to the serving size and the proper way to take their supplements.

Every person will react differently so after researching the type of supplement you want you just have to try it. I don't recommend buying a shopping cart full of supplements because its expensive. Buying one supplement at a time will allow you to see what works best for you. It also narrows down any side effects to that one supplement. Once results are found find out what can be stacked with it to further those results.

Bonus:
As far as the most ethical supplement companies I would have to say gaspari nutrition is number one. Rich Gaspari is known all around the world as a bodybuilder. His products are in every store and they are pricey because they work. Second place would be muscletech for the simple fact that they are rapidly growing which shows the products are being purchased and working.

[g4owensj]

There are a lot of supplements on the market that are targeted to older or more advanced fitness enthusiasts, however, there are younger and more inexperienced athletes who find these same supplements desirable.


Before I tackle the question of supplementation, I would first like to give a few points of perspective to what it takes to supplement. When looking at the definition of the word supplement, it is defined as ?something added to complete a thing, make up for a deficiency, or extend or strengthen a whole? (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/supplement). With that in mind the first thing that a newbie and perhaps even a seasoned veteran of the gym might want to remember is almost all labels have the phrase ??when added to a diet and exercise program.? One can not live of supplements alone, or believe that they can do and eat anything they want and take a wonder supplement and still achieve the goals that the supplement is claiming to be able to make you achieve. Long story short you can?t expect even the most well built house to stay standing if you build it on top of a poor foundation.


How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?


First things first when starting to experiment with supplementing your diet for an exercise program, and that is to go and get a physical from your doctor and make sure that you are in good health. This will also give you the chance to address any serious questions you might have to a doctor of medicine rather then the guy in the squat rack next to you.

The first rule that I would go with would start simple and work your way up. This means that if you don?t take any supplements now, maybe start with a protein supplement before and after your workout and see what that does for you and then after a while (perhaps a month or two) start taking a creatine. These are two of the most basic lean muscle building compounds out there, and by allowing time between starting different supplements you will know how your body is reacting to each one. Don?t however if it is your first day in the gym start taking a testosterone booster, NO (nitric oxide) supplement and thermogenic (or stimulant) fat burner. First off, those are all more advanced types of supplements and by starting more then one at a time you will have no idea to which one is actually working for you or not working for you. Once you have a good base supplementation and feel like you might want to experiment with some more advanced supplements, like the above mentioned t-boosters and fat burners, you can do some research on what they actually do and what I think a lot of people look past is contacting the company that makes the supplements and ask them what they recommend for dosages as well as what might be good or bad supplement stacks that include that specific product.


What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?


Some basic supplements that are safe for everyone is kind of hard to say, as there are no absolutes and you can never be 100% sure, however there are a few things that almost anybody can take and not have adverse effects. First on the list would be a multi-vitamin, your body needs vitamins and minerals to help aid in everyday functions and when someone is on a strict diet or a routine, some times those essential vitamins and minerals might not get included in the foods you are choosing. The next would be a protein source, whey protein is the most common and readily available, but if you have problems with lactose intolerance, then perhaps a soy protein would be better for you. These are the two best fuels for building lean mass, but the third would be creatine, I don?t think I have ever heard of anyone not being able to take it, but there are different types as everyone absorbs it differently. If your lucky then creatine-monohydrate is the simplest form and the cheapest, but not everyone absorbs this correctly. Ladies, this is more of a problem for you then for men, but it does exist for men as well. If when you take it you begin to feel bloated then you will want to switch to a different form like creatine-citrate or a blend of different types.

The other basic supplement that is safe for everyone would be green tea. This can either is drank or taken in a pill form, but as a supplement it is used for fat burning. Naturally there is caffeine in the drink, but when taken in the pill form green tea will normally have slightly higher levels of caffeine then the natural drink form. These supplements are the most basic and widely used supplements and with that the safest. However, any supplement can be safe if you follow the directions and consult an expert to be sure you are healthy enough to take it. With that though, any supplement can be unsafe if you do not follow the directions properly. One final note is that water, that?s right water is a supplement as well that should not be over looked. Be sure to stay hydrated at all times, and be sure to not just drink water at the gym or during an activity, but before you go to the gym or participate in an activity to make sure your hydrated from the start.


Which supplements should one be very cautious of?


Above all rules, you should be cautious of any supplement that you can not walk into a store and buy from the shelf. Not saying you can?t buy from an internet store, but I am saying that you should be cautious if you can?t get it from your corner supplement store. Another supplement I would be anything that is a controlled substance, if you need a doctor?s prescription to take a supplement, so there must be some good reasons why they don?t let anybody walk into the store and buy it. The next thing that I would be cautious of would be anything that must be stacked with anything else to ensure that there are no health issues.

Those are some general rules that I think apply to almost anyone, and if you have a question about if a supplement falls into those rules, then it would be a good idea to ask a professional. Personally I am very cautious about taking any supplements that affect my endocrine system. Your body has a way of equalizing the levels of chemicals and hormones in your body and for good reason. When taking these types of supplements your body has the ability to reduce the amounts of natural production of such hormones or chemicals. Again contact a physician and be sure that if you do decide to take any of those types of supplements to follow the directions and pay close attention to your body. Discontinue use at the first signs of negative side effects.


BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?


This is really tough question as you can argue that a supplement company is really just a business and they are selling a product. Most people will say that the product that they take is the most ethical, but in reality most of the products that are dietary supplements are unregulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and there are not guarantees. You can argue that the larger companies are the most ethical because they sell the most products, but then again they also have the most capital to spend on advertising as well. The reverse side to that would be to say the small companies are more ethical because they have to have a better product to be able to stay afloat, but then again who is to say that they are getting the best ingredients. You can look at research studies, but studies for products are normally only conducted on one or two of the ingredients of the products and not the product as a whole. What I would look for and say might be the most ethical companies are the ones that have been around the longest, these are the companies that tend to have a large base of consumers and have had the ability to build upon there own knowledge over time and have some very tried and true products.
* Note: How can I win? 1. Answer all questions in the order that they are asked. 2. Go over reviews (located at the bottom of past TOTW articles) and see what was said about those that did not win. Good Luck!
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TOPIC: How Can One Filter Out Which Supplements Are Safe And Unsafe For Them?

For the week of: March 19th - March 24th
Tuesday @ Midnight Is The Final Cut (Mountain Time, US & Canada).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

[g4owensj]

hey, how do you make bold letters in the responses, I have tried but have been unsuccesful so far

[skaffer]

hey, how do you make bold letters in the responses, I have tried but have been unsuccesful so far

Same code as microsoft word or any program like it, Highlight what you want bolded and press ctrl + B

[jager7]

Suppliment saftey is very important for fitness enthusiasts and should be extremely important to younger and inexperienced athletes.
note: I'm personally an inexperienced athlete and follow theses rules as best i can.

1. Rules of thumb for filtering which are safe.
-READ, dont bother with the label of the product yet
search for info on the pure(nothing added) substances (scientific
journals/if neseccary wiki)
-After knowing what the substance is supposed to do by itself,
try to find literature(again journals/and "IF" neseccary articles
by "pro" athletes(not sponsered articles)) on how to make it better
(ie. increasing insulin levels when taking creatine)
-Now you know what it does and basics of making it work better.
-You can begin looking at more than just pure supp's and make
intelligent observations on whats in a brand name supp. and
whether you need the extra they put in it.
-VERY LAST STEP if you still want more than just the pure
suppliment(brandnameproduct) Test it out alone not with some
crazy stack and see for yourself if "that product is working for you.

2. Safe & basic Suppliments.
This is somewhat of a bad question because most things in this world can be dangerous if not moderated.
(ie. multivitamins more than one dose/day has been shown to have long term effects)
But in moderation. (in somewhat of an order of the pure substances)

very basic(very beginner)
- omega 3's (best source is probably fish oil but not the only source)
- Multivitamins

basic(beginner)
- Protien
- Branch Chain Amino Acids

post-basic (slight experience)
- Creatine
- Beta Alanine
- Glutamine
- meal replacement(carbs/fats)

3. Be Cautious of:
- FatBurners and Stimulantes, each company trys to outdo the next
so other than proved pure substances "in moderation"(ie.caffeine)
mixes of more than one substance can be somewhat
danngerous ,and produce health problems.
- Testosterone Boosters, caution is required when effecting
hormone levels.

Bonus Question:
Every Company wishes to make money so they will produce products to entice customers(it's called marketing it is not unethical),
I believe unless a product is released from a company intended to/or has been shown to/or has the chance to hurt a customer
only then is a company un-ethical.
As for good companys that keep their products pure(safest):
-True Protien
-Bulk Suppliments canada
-Pure Bulk

[steveironpump]

The dietary supplement market is very lucrative these days and is also corrupt in many respects. The FDA does not regulate any of the products on the market, which makes life difficult for the consumer. Many supplement companies can consequently produce products that are potentially unsafe and can also make claims that are false.

In order to filter your way through all of the hundreds and hundreds of supplements out there, you must ask yourself three simple questions:

1) Which companies are reputable?
2) Do the claims made by these companies seem to be too good to be true?
3) What effect on the body will a given supplement have in the short-term and the long-term?
4) Does a given product seem to be of high quality?

These three questions will filter out all of the bad supplements on the market and will narrow the field tremendously. Let me go into more detail about each of these questions that you should ask:

1) Is the company reputable?

In order to assess whether or not a company is reputable, you can do several things. First of all, if a company has just developed a "new, innovative" product, see if it has a patent. If it does, then go to the government database for patents and read what the patent is for. Some companies, like Muscletech, have patents that actually don't protect anything significant, and they claim that their patent applies to a whole list of products just to look credible.

If there is no patent, read the ingredient label on the product. Chances are that there is nothing new about the product. If the label includes numerous ingredients that are trademark ingredients of the company, then look for published research on those ingredients. Again, chances are that this company is just trying to put a new label on a product that has already been created.

2) Do the claims of a company seem too good to be true?

If so, then these claims probably are too good to be true and are just a load of crap. I went into GNC not too long ago, and I saw a product that claimed that users would see an 800% increase in strength. That was obviously a bunch of crap. There is no way that someone bench pressing 200 lbs is going to bench press 1800 lbs by simply using that product. That would be hundreds and hundreds of pounds more than the world record. Even an increase of 100% by a supplement alone would be farfetched.

3) What effect will a given supplement have on the body in the short-term and the long-term?

What comes to mind with this is weight loss products and pre-workout drinks that supposedly "increase" intensity in the gym. Both of these kinds of products generally contain stimulants, which can lead to heart attacks, restlessness, irritability, and sleeplessness.

Diet suppressants have had very little research done in terms of side effects. Honestly, I would avoid weight loss pills unless you have a serious food addiction and you need to suppress your hunger. Overall, just stick to good old diet and exercise.

4) Does a given product seem to be high quality?

With many supplements like proteins, amino acids, creatines, and carbohydrate mixtures, it is very easy to determine the quality of a product. If something makes you dehydrated, sick and bloated or it just doesn't do what it's supposed to, then obviously that supplement is probably poor quality. Also, try various brands of supplements so you have something to reference when determining the quality of a new brand that you want to try.

Overall, the main thing as a consumer is to be very cautious. You can't believe everything that you hear. Do your own research and make sure that everything makes sense before investing your time and money into a supplement.

Here are some of the top supplement companies in terms of quality, research, and integrity:

1) Eniva - Eniva does more research than any other company in the nutriceutical industry and consequently, they produce the absolute best products. The only drawback is that the best of the best costs a lot of money. If you?re a millionaire, then buy from Eniva.

2) AST Sports Science - AST puts a lot of research into their products and they publish all of it on their website. They have a patent on the best creatine on the market, and they also produce the best protein. The only drawback is that their protein is also very expensive.

3) Optimum Nutrition - Optimum nutrition is for the everyday person that wants a decent quality protein and doesn't want to pay through the roof for it. They have very good quality and are a company to be trusted.

4) Now ? Now manages to slip under a lot of people's radars, yet NOW is an ethical company that keeps their prices extremely low. It is one of the few companies in which you don't have to sacrifice quality to save money.

These are some of the few companies that I would highly recommend. Obviously there are a lot of other companies out there that do produce high quality products, but make sure you do your homework before investing in certain products. Even a poor quality protein may seem harmless, but in the long run, you'd be surprised at how much trouble it can cause your kidneys and liver. You can definitely trust the companies listed above.

Be wary of companies like Muscletech that throw around non-existent big words and try to impress you with what they call "science." Also, be careful with companies like GNC. GNC is usually pretty safe to buy from, but sometimes, their Pro Performance products have very poor quality.

The safe bet is to go with companies like NOW, AST Sports Science, and Optimum Nutrition. All of these can be found on bodybuilding.com at a good price. Natural products like omega fats and grean tea are always safe for everyone because they occur in nature and always have positive effects on the body.

Wading through the supplement industry can be difficult. Do your homework on dietary supplements and you will be just fine.

[nate1974]

When I started to workout I did take a supplement (Pro Complex) , and I did take it for about about 5 years . Before I did take that I did ask my doctor if it was o.k. for me to have it , and he said it was . I have seizures I have to deal with . The reason that I did stop taking it was because after the 5 years taking that I started to have more seizures taking that . About 4 years after that time I did try Whey Protein and that didn't work for me either . I only tried it a little bit of times and it started to make me have more seizures . It took a month before I got better . I would try another one but I dont want to throw away money and also if it is like Whey it would take a hole month for me to get better , I can't have something like that happing to me . So it looks like supplements are unsafe for me .

[soundcheck129]

There are a lot of supplements on the market that are targeted to older or more advanced fitness enthusiasts, however, there are younger and more inexperienced athletes who find these same supplements desirable.

The world of supplements can be a vast and confusing place, especially for beginners. Unfortunately, improper use of some supplements can have very serious consequences. But you wouldn't know that from all of the glitzy ads and miraculous claims from marketing departments. If you took every supplement package at face value, you'd probably think all you had to do was take a few pills every day and you'd be ripped beyond belief and in the best shape of your life. While more experienced athletes aren't likely to buy into this hype, newcomers with youthful optimism and inexperience may be tricked into a very dangerous situation.

And while our litigation-happy society may give you a different impression, it is ultimately your decision to put something into your body, no company can force you to use a product, no matter how persuasive the advertising seems. Ignorance of potential side effects is not an excuse.

You only get one body - treat it with care!

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

In my opinion, younger athletes shouldn't really need too many supplements, especially if they are just beginning. A healthy teen has no need for a test-booster or fat loss pill - hard work and a lot of food can produce great results when combined with a youthful metabolism. Of course, everyone wants the edge, so supplement use is popular.

The first step to figure out whether a supplement is safe is simple - read the label. What is it, and what does it do? Is there an age limit? Some supplements are intended for adults only and often say so on their labels. You should also see if any side effects are listed on the product and if it has any warnings about possible interactions with other drugs or the possibility of aggravating pre-existing medical conditions.

If the supplement passes that inspection, it's time to dig a little deeper. Check out the ingredient list and look for anything you may have an allergic reaction to, such as peanuts or milk products. Some protein products, though milk based, include digestive enzymes such as lactase or contain very low levels of lactose and are safe for lactose-intolerant individuals, so check for any indicators of that. Also, be aware that some EFA products may have been derived from fish, a concern for those allergic to seafood. Many fat-burners and pre-workout products contain a lot of caffeine, which can be a problem for those sensitive to stimulants. Also, consider that sugar alcohols often cause bloating and digestive discomfort.

If you're still interested in a supplement, see if you can find anyone who has used it and inquire about their experiences. Going online can open up a whole world of reviews, such as the Product Review forum at Bodybuilding.com, SubstanceReviews.com, and research site SupplementGenius.com. You may also want to do a Google search on any ingredients you didn't recognize on the product label.

Lastly, consult your doctor if you are still in doubt. A professional opinion is always a valuable one. And if your house is like mine was, you may also want to do a mental "mom check," as in, what is Mom going to say about this supplement? If you can't explain the safety issue, you may have to reconsider.

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

While there are many potentially risky supplements, there are plenty of supplements that are perfectly safe. Usually, the simplest supplements are the safest - those with only a few, common ingredients or those derived from whole foods. Some safe bets are:

Protein Powders - if you're not lactose intolerant, whey is a great source of protein; very convenient and highly bioavailable, not to mention delicious. If you are lactose intolerant, don't sweat it - I am, but many whey products have very low levels of lactose (and often proclaim this on the label). Look for Isolates, not Concentrates, or powders with added digestive enzymes. There are also non-dairy alternatives such as pea protein, egg protein, and rice protein.

Multi-Vitamins and Minerals - Vitamins and minerals are essential for many of the body's processes, and are unlikely to aggravate any allergies you have.

BCAAs and EAAs (Glutamine, etc) - Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, so you're already ingesting these in your food and most are manufactured in your body already.

Fatty Acids - Fish Oils, EFAs, and even CLA are naturally occurring fatty acids and play important roles in the body. These are a great addition to any diet, helping to cushion joints and build brain cells.

Melatonin - Melatonin is produced naturally by the body and is very helpful in inducing a deep sleep. The only possibly side effect is drowsiness, but that is expected from a sleep aid; don't take this if you need to be awake and alert.

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

First of all, be weary of any supplement that seems too good to be true, because it probably is. You should make sure you fully understand what all of the ingredients are and what the supplement will do before taking it. If you can't recognize or pronounce any of the ingredients, you may want to stay away.

Also, many people regard creatine as a 'safe' supplement, but it has been linked with kidney problems, so it can be dangerous, especially if you do not consume enough water. Caffeine products should also be taken with sufficient water, as they have a dehydrating effect. Also, too much caffeine can cause nausea, irritability, insomnia and even heart problems, so don't combine fat burners and energy products; one or the other may even be too much.

Hormonal products should also be avoided. Unless you have a medical condition that leads to a deficiency in testosterone, you probably don't need to be supplementing it, especially when you are young. All you really need to boost your testosterone is some healthy fats and deadlifts. Any product that requires a post-cycle regimen should raise a red flag. But this warning isn't limited to testosterone boosters - be wary of growth hormone and insulin products too.

Fat burners and weight-loss products are often loaded with stimulants and can interfere with your insulin levels and hunger signals, which is very serious. Use with caution, preferably only in extreme cases. Look out for products containing ephedra or ephedrine - this can be dangerous.

Supplements that contain banned or formerly banned substances should obviously be avoided as well. In addition, make sure all of the supplements you take are compatible with each other. And don't take anything unless you know exactly what it is - even if your buddy says it's fine.

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

Because the supplement industry is not FDA regulated, accuracy of label claims and quality can sometimes be difficult to determine. Some of the most "trusted" names are only regarded as such because everyone else seems to like them. And while bigger companies would seem to be more reliable, they can also be out of touch with their customers and may employ cost-cutting measures to increase sales.

Try to find a company that offers transparency, interacts with customers on a regular basis, and provides sound, current science to support their claims. Avoid companies that refuse to disclose information and hide behind "proprietary blends." Doing research online and checking websites and reviews can also help here. Be aware that the most popular companies, the ones with the most sales, or the most expensive ones are not necessarily the best. While everyone's opinion may differ, my experiences have lead me to trust the following companies:

Higher Power
Xtreme Formulations
Optimum Nutrition
Universal Nutrition
Gaspari Nutrition

These companies seem to be in a constant pursuit of improvement and are in touch with their target consumers. Additionally, companies such as Gaspari are made up of people who have experience in the lifting community and are dedicated to the sport, so they are more personally invested in the products.

[wannabstrong]

Inexperienced dieters and young lifters want to see results fast. I've been there too, but one should not rush into things expecting results overnight because progress takes time. It is important to start with the basic supplements and get a good feel for how your body reacts before jumping into the latest supplement fads.

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

Read the Warning Label. As people become more experienced and learn to listen to what their bodies tell them, it becomes easier to determine which warnings to ignore. However, when someone is just starting out they should take the necessary precautions and follow the warnings that are on the supplement packaging. So if high blood pressure is a condition someone has, then paying particular attention to warning labels on fat burners and pre-workout supplements. If there is an only use if over 18 or 21 label follow it until you can truly understand the repercussions of usage. Usage of supplements while pregnant or nursing should always be checked by a doctor to make sure nothing will interfere with a safe pregnancy.

Do research on the product before you buy it. Don't just read the label, understand what the ingredients do and how they will affect your body. Supplement companies use lots of ingredients with big words that are confusing to understand inside their products so the most efficient way to research a product is to simply type each of the ingredients into a google search. The next best thing is to ask a question about the product on the bodybuilding.com forum and benefit from others? experiences.

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

Some safe supplements everyone should use are Multivitamins, Whey Protein, Protein Bars and Creatine. Creatine is one of the most researched supplements on the market and has lots of evidence to support its safety and efficacy, follow the instructions and drink a lot of water while using it (1). Multivitamins provide the basic minerals that your body cannot get through food and the vitamins that sometimes get overlooked. Whey protein is derived from milk so it is safe for everyone except those with lactose intolerance. Protein bars are similar to whey protein in terms of safety. In addition, they can prevent you from starving if you are in a bind and don't have time to fix a meal. These four supplements are the only ones I took during my first three years of lifting and I was quite satisfied with my results.

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

Individual health problems such as high blood pressure, allergies and more severe ailments should be at the forefront of everyone's decision making. Supplements that should be shown caution vary due to that reasoning. Though some types of supplements seem to pose a risk to all those who use them. A person should always be careful with fat burners because they affect your heart rate, metabolism and blood pressure so one must monitor their body, determine a safe course of action and learn to stop when necessary. Another supplement that requires lots of caution are pro-hormones and testosterone boosters because they mess with our bodies natural testosterone production which can have serious consequences if proper steps are not taken to protect yourself while on and off cycle.

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

In my opinion the most ethical companies are the ones that can make claims and actually live up to the hype. I trust Optimum Nutrition, Prolab, Champion Nutrition, Gaspari, Controlled Labs and Scivation.


1. Layne Norton. The Safety of Creatine. http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/layne22.htm

[big game hunter]

There are a lot of supplements on the market that are targeted to older or more advanced fitness enthusiasts, however, there are younger and more inexperienced athletes who find these same supplements desirable.

How can one filter out which supplements are safe and unsafe for them to use?

Welcome to the world of supplements. It is a highly complex world where there are several options and possibilities. Possibilities and results may be good or bad. If you do not know your way around and take a wrong step or if you do not know where to tread, you could take a fall. But there is a way to go about this chaotic world - a way to simplify things and take the steps required to help get you to your desired goal. The several people who have used supplements to their advantage are ample proof that there can be gold at the end of the rainbow. Then again, the several more who have failed show that not knowing what to do can get you no where and worse yet, get you in serious trouble. THE most important tool to have with you in this world is "Knowledge". This is what is going to help you keep the guess work less and succeed here.

Experienced or not, you would be foolish to choose a supplement that you are not sure is safe for you. Coming to younger and inexperienced athletes, the biggest enemy for such youngsters is "Misconception and Wrong Information" (Again coming back to KNOWLEDGE).

Inexperienced guys who think that an athlete does not require supplements at all are wrong. Supplements are used in just about every sport today and also by regular non athletic people who lead normal and healthy lifestyles. Sure, a healthy diet is a must for a supplement to work in the first place. So newbies, do not sacrifice a good, healthy and balanced diet for anything. Supplements can be added to fill in the gaps in your diet. That about sums up what the role of a supplement is.

People take supplements because a solid daily diet could lack certain nutrients or may not contain the quantities required for your body and activity levels. Just as food is important to your body, so are supplements. I am sure you know how sick you feel when you have had bad food or stuff that does not suit you. In the same way, a wrongly chosen supplement can make you sick.

Second misconception that several inexperienced guys have is that supplements alone will do the trick for them. The answer to that is a "NO". Supplements alone will not work. As mentioned earlier, supplements only fill in the gaps in your diet.

Wait. It is still not time to go out there and buy every product off the shelf like there is no tomorrow. Further action plans are necessary.

Now that we have the role of supplements cleared out, let us get to how to safely consume them. First of all, you got to analyze yourself. Measurements - height, weight, waist, hip, body fat percentages etc. First get a clear picture of what you are right now. Get an initial body reading. Next, decide your goals. The supplements for a person looking to lose weight may differ from those that a person looking to train in kung fu or swimming. Next, would be to assess your diet. Write down what you eat or what you are going to eat on a daily basis for the next one week during your training routine. This gives a fair idea of what your diet is like. Now would be the best time to have a nutritionist look into your diet and suggest corrections or alternatives. Now that these steps are done, you can start listing down supplements that you require. Note down the supplements required first. Then, hunt for good companies selling them.

This sort of systematic approach gives you an indication before hand as to whether a supplement that you are going to add or drop to or from your diet is going to be effective or not. New comers to the world of supplements are advised to stay away from fake claims made by some companies that lie to consumers and also, stay away from the guys who take in all the stuff on the block and look like walking minotaurs. These guys often use unsafe supplements. Any advice taken from them needs to be thoroughly researched before accepting that it is good for you.

Make a study of the supplements that your sport requires and the dosages required for you. Over dosage could lead to internal and/or health problems and under dosage could hinder your gains. Do research and check if the supplements you have chosen are safe. In general, choose stuff that does not include any harmful stimulants, narcotics or anabolic steroids.

What? You do not think dosages are a serious issue? Well, let me tell you about a certain incident that occurred in California.

On January 12, 2007, a 28-year old Californian wife and mother of three children died from drinking too much water. Her body was found in her home shortly after she took part in a water-drinking contest that was sponsored by a local radio show. Entitled "Hold Your Wee For A Wii," the contest promoters promised a free Wii video game machine to the contestant who drank the most water without urinating. The excess water had put tremendous amounts of stress on her kidneys and heart, hampered her blood flow. It could also lead to brain damage. The lady died because she had too much water in too little time.

Hope dosages mean something to you now - newbie athletes. Even the safest of substances like water can kill if abused.

What are some basic supplements that are safe for everyone?

There are certain gems that almost every one can use without too much of worry. These supplements are the centerpiece around which a supplement stack often revolves. Oh! - A supplement stack is a combination of supplements that you may take in order to gain extra benefits. You could choose to stack two or more supplements or just take one. Let us go over a list of stuff that is in general, safe for everyone to use.

1. WHEY PROTEIN
Whey protein is the king of supplements. It is beneficial to everyone who indulges in physical activity even the general physical activity of a daily normal life. Muscles need protein to stay strong and grow. Making sure that your body receives optimum amounts of protein to stay intact or to make them grow is a smart idea. Without protein, your body will lose muscle during exercise and retain more fat, thus making you fatter. I have mentioned whey protein here specifically because it is the most widely used protein supplement. Other forms of protein supplements come in the form of soy protein, casein protein, egg protein and protein bars.

2. WEIGHT GAINERS
These help gain weight - as the name suggests. They often contain protein along with carbohydrates. A safe option.

3. CREATINE
This is again one of the most effective, safe supplements around. It is used to gain or maintain lean muscle mass and strength.

4. MULTI VITAMINS
Our bodies need minerals and vitamins to support our existence. Every function and tissue of our body requires these magic ingredients to make it happen for us. Athletes especially could do with an adequate supply of vitamins that help overcome deficiencies. Thus, enabling the body to recover and function at it's strongest.

5. BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACIDS
These are the building blocks of protein. Protein, when ingested, is broken down into amino acids in the body. These acids then aid in building and repairing tissues. Not all Amino acids are not produced internally by the body and hence, have to be consumed through proper food. A quality BCAA is a good and safe inclusion to the supplement list.

6. OMEGA 3 SOURCES
Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9 are the magic three essential fatty acids. Most people get adequate amounts of Omega 6 and Omega 9 through daily and normal food. However, the Omega 3 is the one that is hard to get. A good Omega 3 supplement is a great thing to have. Ya, I know what you are thinking, but do not worry. These are healthy fats and there is nothing to worry about. Make sure to cut out the harmful fats. Healthy fats assist the body and organs.

7. NITRIC OXIDE
Nitric oxide helps increase blood flow in the body and thus results in more nutrients reaching your muscles during an exercise session.

8. SAFE FAT BURNERS
A safe fat burner is a good bet for someone looking to lose weight and fit into his clothes.

Which supplements should one be very cautious of?

New comers and inexperienced people in particular have to steer clear of supplements that make extraordinary claims to radically change your body and deliver instant results. It does not work that way. And if it does, it is more than likely that the supplement contains some ingredients that are harmful to health.
Some stuff like anabolic steroids, narcotics and stimulants should be totally avoided as mentioned earlier in the article. These are not safe for the body. Then there are supplements that are safe to take, but need to be taken in the appropriate dosages or with extra precaution. Example would be creatine or fat burners. Creatine, diuretics and fat burners require that you consume extra amounts of water on a daily basis especially the days you are on them.
Also, it is not a good idea to consume supplements that alter your natural body functions, such as hormone production. A small imbalance in the hormonal activity in the body could lead to several side effects or serious health impacts.
Bitch tits and impotency in men and facial hair on women are examples where hormones have been messed with.
Pregnant or lactating women and people with prior cases of health issues need to do specific research on what supplement suits them.
Apart from just choosing the right supplements, you have also got to be within safe dosage limits. Remember the story of the Californian woman mentioned earlier in the article?

BONUS QUESTION: It's very important for one to know what is in the product they are buying and the quality of it. So, what are the most ethical supplement companies that one can trust?

I am sure you all give a great deal of importance to quality of food you eat, and justifiably so. In the same way, quality of supplements plays a factor and can be detrimental to your results and/or health. It is always suggested to research supplements and supplement companies. A good brand name instills confidence in the buyer. There are several companies that come up, make a quick buck and then get shut down. These are the ones to beware of. The ones to choose from are those that have been around a long time. Because if they were not delivering quality products, they would not last and would not sell for so long. One good way to zero in on the list of good companies supplying the product you are looking for is through www.bodybuilding.com store. Just select the supplement you want to research and then you get the list of top sellers. Do this a few times and you will come to know of certain big names in the industry that you can trust.

[livechex]

Thank you guys, I found this thread is very helpful to me. I have created a thread to ask how can I gain weight safely while I cannot eat too much. I think this thread gives me a portion to my question.
Thanks,
Leo

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