Cellular health, performance & supplementation
As athletes we are continuously striving to improve our performance and how effectively we can recover and feel at our best. From meticulously considered training regimes, to optimal restorative sleep, to the foods we eat, we know all too well that these choices will impact how well we are able to compete. But have you considered how your cellular health is impacting your endurance, recovery, and overall well being? While diet is the most important source of nutrients, supplementation science offers promising potential to support performance and combat cellular aging. Let’s explore some promising supplements!
NAD+ Boosters: Unleashing our Cellular Energy
NAD+ is a vital coenzyme present in all our cells and is crucial for helping to turn nutrients into energy. It’s involved in key cellular functions such as energy production and DNA repair and our overall cellular health. Research has suggested that nicotinamide riboside (NR) can help to boost NAD+ levels and can play an important role in cellular energy production.
By increasing NAD+ levels which naturally decrease with age, athletes may be able to improve their mitochondrial function which is responsible for cellular energy production and efficient energy metabolism. Research also suggests that NR can help performance by supporting muscle recovery, reducing fatigue and ensuring that cells operate at their peak.
CoQ10: Energizing the Cellular Powerhouses
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10 is a game changer when it comes to cellular energy. CoQ10 plays an important role in mitochondrial function (the powerhouses of our cells) and also has antioxidant properties.
Promising research suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may contribute to enhanced energy production within cells (in the mitochondria), and provide protection against oxidative stress induced by vigorous exercise.
Glutathione: Oxidative stress support
Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that plays a central role in neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Athletes, especially those engaging in strenuous physical activities, are exposed to increased oxidative stress. Supplementing with glutathione can help counteract this stress, protecting cells from damage.
Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to muscle fatigue and soreness after intense exercise. Glutathione’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can support faster recovery.
Astaxanthin: Your natural booster
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that is nearly 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C. Supplementing with astaxanthin can help reduce exercise-induced muscle damage and inflammation, improve endurance and stamina, enhance muscle function, promote joint health and flexibility and support cardiovascular function.
Biactive Marine Collagen Peptides: More than just for skin health
Bioactive marine collagen peptides provide essential amino acids that contribute to the integrity and strength of connective tissues, promoting joint health and reducing the risk of injuries. Whether you’re a runner, weightlifter, or engage in any high-impact sport, the potential benefits of collagen peptides lie in their ability to support the structure and flexibility of joints, contributing to potential injury-resistance. Supplementing with collagen also provides the amino acids necessary for muscle tissue repair and regeneration. It is also a key component of bones, providing structural support and flexibility.
While the field of supplementation is ever-evolving, and individual responses may vary, there may be benefits in considering how supplementation may help to support your athletic performance, expedite recovery, and improve overall cellular health. Optimizing your cellular health is about ensuring that every cell in your body is buzzing with energy and working more optimally so that you can perform and feel at your best. Everyone is unique, before taking supplements speak to your health care practitioner to discuss what is best for your personal well being.