Pre-workout
- Daniel Maroun
- Jan 15, 2023
- 2 min read
Pre-workout is a concoction of ingredients used to increase nitric oxide, endurance, focus, strength, cognitive function, and intramuscular hydration. There are hundreds of pre-workout formulas, but the most common ingredients amongst them include glycerol monostearate, caffeine, citrulline, and Beta-Alanine.
Glycerol Monostearate
Glycerol Monostearate, also known as C21H42O4, is a hyper-hydrating substance that dramatically improves pumps, endurance, and performance by hyper-hydrating the muscle with water. Glycerol can do this because it elevates osmotic pressure and the overall volume of water in the body once ingested.
Caffeine
Caffeine (C8H10N4O2) is a purine alkaloid that works by stimulating the brain and central nervous system (CNS). Caffeine inhibits the activity of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that relaxes the brain and causes drowsiness. Caffeine ameliorates endurance, strength, and cerebral function.
Caffeine is often paired with L-theanine due to the synergistic effect produced when combined.
Citrulline
Citrulline (C6H13N3O3) is a nonessential amino acid that is produced in the body and found in food. Citrulline is transformed into arginine, a precursor to nitric oxide, after it is ingested.
Citrulline is often combined with malic acid to increase absorption and bioavailability. Citrulline promotes better blood flow, recovery, endurance, performance, and protein synthesis.
Beta-Alanine
Beta-alanine, also known as C3H7NO2, is a non-essential amino acid paired with histidine to produce carnosine. Carnosine helps athletes perform better by reducing lactic acid buildup in their muscles during exercise.
What to Avoid
When looking for a pre-workout supplement, make sure every ingredient listed is clinically dosed.
For example, a company that claims to deliver a benefit with just 500 mg of citrulline when the effective quantity has been demonstrated to be more than 3 grams is exploiting the consumer paying top dollar for a benefit that is claimed to be provided with only a percentage of the effective amount.
Stay away from companies that use proprietary blends as supplement manufacturers are not required to disclose exact ingredient quantities, allowing them to underdose the more expensive compounds.
Link to purchase:
References:
Comments