Eliza's boyfriend wants to purchase amino acid supplements to enhance his athletic performance. What would you advise her to say regarding these supplements?

Answer 1

A person considering amino acid supplements may want to consider the following:

• Scientific-sounding names notwithstanding, such products have never been proven to increase muscle size or enhance athletic prowess.
• The body can't store extra amino acids, whether they come from food you eat or from supplements. Your body converts the excess into fat. This conversion generates urea, which increases your body's need for water. Increased urination of urea can lead to dehydration, which impedes training and performance.
• The labels of most amino acid supplements failed to carry vital information such as suggested doses, shelf life, and contraindications for use of the product. In addition, a panel selected by the FDA identified certain groups of people who may be at particularly high risk for suffering health problems as a result of swallowing amino acid supplements. Children and teenagers, for example, may not grow properly if they take amino acid pills or powders.
• Special protein supplements are typically very expensive.