The Best Time to Use Protein Supplements

Protein supplements are used to help athletes build more muscle mass. The most common supplements are creatine and glutamine that supply the body with additional protein, which is the key component used in muscle development. Protein supplements are difficult on liver function so getting the most out of your protein supplements by timing them properly is essential.

Creatine Vs. Gluatmine

• These supplements both use sodium as the primary transport method for absorption. By taking these supplements together, they may compete with each other for metabolic avenues and not be fully absorbed.This problem can be easily rectified by not taking the supplements together. One option is to take creatine a half-hour before a workout and immediately after a workout. This is called bracketing and helps the body to prepare for anabolic workouts by limiting breakdown of muscles during the workout. Glutamine should be taken at other times of the day as described in Section 3.

Post Workout

• If a person had to choose one time to take a protein supplement, this would be immediately after a workout. The muscles have been stressed and strained and experience breakdown. By supplying the body with additional protein, the muscles will absorb them quickly and repair faster. By being absorbed quickly, the body is using the protein added to the body and limiting the stress added to liver function by the supplement.

Bedtime and Breakfast

• Glutamine should be taken prior to bedtime, when it raises the levels of growth hormone. This period of rest helps the body to rest and repair and is the perfect opportunity to help muscles recover and grow, making workouts more effective.

  The morning is another good time to take glutamine. The body has not had any food in more than eight hours and is desperate for nutrition. Providing it with protein at this time helps to prepare muscles for the day.