For years, athletes have supplemented their diets with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) because they believed BCAAs gave them a leg up on muscle recovery and muscle growth. But recent findings have shifted the scientific community’s understanding of how amino acids work together, suggesting that essential amino acids (EAAs) may be a more effective option. The conflicting information […]
If you’re on a quest for more muscle mass, you’ve probably heard of bulking. As the name suggests, that’s when you force-feed extra calories, usually over a set period, in a concentrated effort to muscle up. There are two major approaches to bulking up: “clean” and “dirty.” So let’s learn the difference between a dirty […]
For its help improving exercise performance, delaying muscular fatigue, and elevating overall endurance, beta-alanine — a key ingredient in Beachbody Performance Energize — has gained attention as a supplement in recent years. But there’s a quirky side effect that some people experience while supplementing with this amino acid: the beta-alanine itch or tingle. “The sensation is […]
There’s an uncomfortable truth about supplementing with protein: It can leave you feeling bloated and gassy — and conspicuous. Protein farts can happen to anyone. Even actor James McAvoy battled the phenomenon while filming scenes with Angelina Jolie on the set of Wanted. It may be as embarrassing to say or Google “protein farts” as it is to […]
There’s little more frustrating than being sidelined by a muscle cramp. You’ve built the strength and the mental stamina, but you also need your muscles to perform their best — and that means keeping your muscles from seizing up. Exercise strain and overuse are the most common causes of muscle cramps, explains Dana Hunnes, Ph.D., M.P.H., R.D., […]
Creatine is a well-tested, effective, and super popular sports nutrition supplement that can help support muscle growth, performance, and strength. But despite its widespread use, there’s still a lot of confusion about when and how to take creatine. One common question among athletes: Should I take creatine on off days? The short answer is yes, but you can […]
I see a lot of clients who struggle with emotional eating. When they feel stressed or overwhelmed, they turn to their favorite foods and often feel guilty for not sticking to their diet. It can take a long time to understand that eating because you’re feeling emotional doesn’t warrant self-flagellation. In fact, it may even […]
Our bodies use protein to build and repair muscle (and provide energy and break down food and support growth and development). But if you’re looking for other sources of protein — particularly those that don’t add loads of extra fat and calories — where should you start? How much protein (and how many calories) you need is […]
If you’re looking to build muscle, the benefits of protein shakes are clear: They’re a convenient and dense source of protein and can help you recover faster between workouts. But what if you’re working to shed some pounds? Are protein shakes good for weight loss? Tasty, portable, and quick to make, protein shakes provide a […]
Perhaps you find cooking a rewardless chore. Or maybe strict eating habits serve your goal of a fitter, leaner body. As distinctly different as these two types may seem, many people within each have adopted the same strategy: Eat the same thing every day. But can you really repeat the same food every day — […]