Buy sports nutrition and nutritional supplements

Sports nutrition refers to foods and nutritional supplements specifically designed to improve the performance, recovery and overall health of athletes. It plays an important role in the nutrition and training of athletes to help them achieve their goals and maintain their optimal performance levels.

Sports nutrition can take several forms, including:

1. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the most important source of energy for athletes. They provide fuel for intense workouts and help maintain glycogen stores in the muscles. For example, you can have a large meal a few hours before your workout such as pasta, oatmeal, potatoes or rice. This contains many carbohydrates that give you long-lasting energy.

2. Proteins: Proteins are essential for recovery and muscle building after intense training. They help repair muscle tissue and promote muscle growth.

3. Fats: Although carbohydrates are the main source of fuel during exercise, fats can also play a role, especially during prolonged endurance exercise. Fats provide energy and help maintain a healthy hormonal balance.

4. Hydration: Adequate hydration is crucial for sports performance. Sports drinks and water are important to replenish fluid loss during training and competitions.

5. Vitamins and minerals: Athletes may have an increased need for certain vitamins and minerals due to the physical stress they experience. Supplements can be used to make up for any deficiencies.

6. Pre-workout supplements: These supplements often contain a combination of ingredients to provide energy before training and promote recovery after training.

It is important to note that sports nutrition can differ individually depending on the type of sport, training intensity, the athlete's goals and other factors. The different products are explained below:

Carbohydrates and sports nutrition

Carbohydrates play an essential role in sports nutrition, especially in providing energy during physical activity. They are stored in the form of glycogen in the muscles and liver and serve as the main fuel source for both short and long-term exercise. Here are some important aspects of carbohydrates in sports nutrition:

1. Energy Level: Carbohydrates provide quickly available energy to the body. They are broken down into glucose, which is used as fuel for muscle contraction during exercise. Adequate carbohydrate intake can delay fatigue and improve sports performance.

2. Glycogen stores: During intensive training or competitions, the glycogen stores in the muscles are depleted. It is important to replenish these supplies after training to promote a quick recovery and be ready for the next session. Carbohydrate-rich food after training can help rebuild glycogen stores.

3. Carbohydrate loading: Before a prolonged effort, such as a marathon or a long bike ride, carbohydrate loading can be beneficial. This means that you increase your carbohydrate intake a few days before the race to maximize glycogen stores.

4. Timing of intake: It is important to take carbohydrates at the right time. Before training or competition, a carbohydrate-rich meal or snack can be a good source of energy. During prolonged exercise, carbohydrate-rich sports drinks, energy gels or other snacks can help to maintain energy levels.

5. Types of Carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, vegetables and legumes, provide a more sustained energy release due to slower digestion and absorption. Simple carbohydrates, such as fruit or sports drinks, can provide quick energy for quick needs during intense workouts.

It is important to tailor carbohydrate intake to individual needs, type of sport and training intensity.

Proteins and sports nutrition

Proteins play an important role in sports nutrition, especially in muscle recovery and building. They are essential for athletes because intense training damages muscles and proteins are needed to repair and grow muscle tissue. We have proteins in the form of whey protein , whey isolate and vegan protein .

Here are some important aspects of protein in sports nutrition:

1. Muscle repair and building: During intense physical activity, small tears occur in the muscle fibers. Proteins are the building blocks needed to repair and strengthen these damaged muscle fibers. Consuming sufficient protein after training is therefore important to promote muscle recovery.

2. Protein Synthesis: Proteins play a role in stimulating protein synthesis in the muscles. Protein synthesis refers to the process of using amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) to create new proteins in the body. Stimulating protein synthesis after training contributes to building muscle mass and strength.

3. Amino Acids: Proteins are composed of amino acids. Some amino acids are considered essential because the body cannot produce them and they must be obtained through diet. Protein from food sources provides these essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and building.

4. Timing of intake: It is important to take proteins at the right times. Immediately after training is a favorable time because the muscles are most receptive to proteins at that time. Spreading protein intake throughout the day can also help maintain a steady supply of amino acids to the muscles.

5. Protein intake: Protein intake varies depending on the type of sport, training goals, body weight and individual needs. In general, it is recommended that athletes consume approximately 1.2-2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Spreading protein intake across meals and snacks throughout the day can help maintain a steady supply of protein.

6. Food Sources: Protein can be obtained from both animal and plant sources. Animal protein sources include meat, poultry, fish, dairy products and eggs. Plant-based protein sources include beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Combining different protein sources can help you get a full range of amino acids.

It is important to keep in mind that athletes may have individual protein needs depending on your goal and performance.

Fats and sports nutrition

Fats also play an important role in sports nutrition, although they often receive less attention than carbohydrates and proteins. Here are some important aspects of fats in sports nutrition:

1. Energy Source: Fats serve as an important source of energy during prolonged exercise, especially lower-intensity activities. The body can efficiently burn fats to provide energy, saving glycogen stores for more intense exercise. However, it is important to note that carbohydrates are the main source of energy during intense and anaerobic activities.

2. Fat-soluble vitamins: Fats are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K) in the body. These vitamins play important roles in several physiological processes, including immune function, bone health and antioxidant protection. We have a complete multivitamin with 25 different vitamins and minerals.

3. Hormone regulation: Fats are involved in the production and regulation of hormones, including sex hormones and stress hormones. These hormones play a role in muscle recovery, growth and metabolism. An adequate fat intake is important for a healthy hormonal balance.

4. Cell membranes: Fats are an important part of cell membranes and play a role in maintaining the structure and function of cells. This is especially important for muscle cells, which have a high degree of structure and activity.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have anti-inflammatory properties and may promote cardiovascular health. They can also contribute to better joint health and an improved recovery response after exercise. Oily fish, flax seeds, chia seeds and walnuts are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

It is important to find the right balance between the different macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins and fats, that suits an athlete's specific needs.

Hydration and sports nutrition

Hydration is a crucial aspect of sports nutrition, as proper fluid balance is essential for optimal sports performance and general health. Here are some key points regarding sports nutrition and hydration:

1. Fluid loss during exercise: During physical activity, especially during intensive training or prolonged exercise, you lose fluid through perspiration. This fluid loss can lead to dehydration, which can lead to reduced performance, fatigue, cramps and even health problems.

2. Fluid needs: Fluid needs vary depending on factors such as intensity and duration of activity, environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) and individual factors (sweat production, body weight). It is important to aim for sufficient hydration before, during and after training or competition.

3. Pre-hydration: Make sure you are well hydrated before engaging in physical activity. Drink 400-600 ml of fluid about 2 to 3 hours before training or competition and drink another 200-300 ml 10-20 minutes before the activity.

4. During activity: During intense or prolonged activity, it is important to maintain fluid balance by drinking regularly. The exact drinking schedule varies depending on individual needs, but in general it is recommended to drink approximately 150-250 ml of fluid every 15-20 minutes.

5. Electrolytes: During exercise you not only lose fluid, but also electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and magnesium through sweat. Replenishing electrolytes is important, especially during prolonged exercise or when sweating in hot environments. Sports drinks or electrolyte supplements can help replenish both fluids and electrolytes.

6. After the activity: After training or competition, it is important to restore the fluid balance by drinking enough. A good guideline is to replace 1.5 times the weight loss during the activity. This can be supplemented with water, sports drinks or other hydrating fluids.

Monitoring your thirst level, checking the color of your urine (a light yellow color is ideal), and adjusting your hydration schedule based on your specific needs are useful strategies for maintaining proper hydration.

Vitamins and minerals sports nutrition

Vitamins and minerals play an important role in sports nutrition, as they are essential for supporting various body functions and maintaining general health. Here are some important vitamins and minerals in sports nutrition:

1. Vitamin B complex: B vitamins, such as B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12, are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and they play a role in energy production. They are important for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the maintenance of healthy red blood cells.

2. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps reduce oxidative stress that can arise from intense physical exertion. It also plays a role in collagen synthesis, which is important for maintaining healthy joints and connective tissue.

3. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of calcium and phosphate metabolism, which is important for strong bones and muscles. Adequate vitamin D status is essential for optimal muscle function and performance.

4. Iron: Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to the muscles and other tissues. Adequate iron intake is important to reduce the risk of anemia and optimize oxygen supply to the muscles.

5. Calcium: Calcium is essential for health and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in muscle contraction, nerve transmission and blood clotting. Adequate calcium intake is important, especially for athletes who are at risk for injuries such as stress fractures.

6. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including energy production, muscle contraction and protein synthesis. Adequate magnesium intake can help reduce muscle cramps, promote recovery and support healthy sleep.

Pre workout and sports nutrition

Pre-workout sports nutrition refers to foods or supplements taken before a workout or competition to improve energy, focus and performance. The purpose of pre-workout nutrition is to provide the body with the proper fuel and nutrients to promote an optimal training session. Here are some important aspects of pre-workout sports nutrition:

1. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the main fuel source for physical activity. Consuming carbohydrates before training can help replenish muscle glycogen stores and provide energy during training. Choose complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruit or oatmeal, which provide slow and sustained energy release.

2. Proteins: Proteins play a role in supporting muscle recovery and building. Although the focus of pre-workout nutrition is primarily on carbohydrates, it can be helpful to consume some protein as well. This can help reduce muscle breakdown and promote post-workout recovery. Choose easily digestible protein sources such as whey protein or vegetable protein sources such as soy protein.

3. Caffeine: Caffeine is a common ingredient in pre-workout supplements because of its stimulant effects. It can increase alertness, focus and energy, and reduce fatigue. Caffeine may be especially beneficial during activities that require a high level of mental involvement, such as strength training or interval training. However, it is important to know individual tolerance to caffeine and moderate intake to avoid side effects.

4. Creatine: Creatine is a substance that occurs naturally in the body and is involved in energy production in the muscles. Creatine supplementation can help improve performance during short-term, intense exercise, such as weightlifting or sprinting. It can increase muscle strength, promote recovery and increase muscle mass.

5. Beta-alanine: Beta-alanine is an amino acid that can increase the levels of carnosine in the muscles. Carnosine acts as a buffer against lactic acid, which can contribute to reduced fatigue and improved performance in high-intensity, short-duration activities such as interval training.

It is important to note that pre-workout sports nutrition can vary personally and depending on individual needs. It is advisable to choose the right foods or supplements based on your training goals, body type, tolerance and nutritional needs.