Now that the hotter weather is behind us many are taking to the outdoors in order to get their exercise.

In order to complement their efforts many are also adding supplements in the form of protein drinks to help them achieve their goals. This week we will borrow from an article on this subject in Energy Times titled “Making Muscle authored by Lisa James.

The old adage ‘work smarter, not harder’ is as applicable in the gym as it is on the job. Building muscle safely and effectively requires more than just thoughtlessly loading a bar with plates and lifting; it necessitates training with specific levels and a specific number of repetitions for specific muscle groups on a set schedule.

In a similar manner, eating to support a weightlifting program requires some thought, too. In addition to planning a healthy diet tailored to your needs, you should carefully which supplements can maximize the muscle-building power of every pound you lift.

Muscles are packed full of protein, which in turn are made of amino-acids. Three of these substances, known as the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) – isoleucine, leucine, and valine- are particularly useful for lifters who want to create a brawny, sculpted look.

Breaking down, building up. Muscle mass doesn’t increase when you lift- it actually increases when you recover from the lift.

Here’s the deal: Lifting greater and greater amounts of weight and / or increasing your repetitions makes your muscles do a little more work than they can handle comfortably. This pushes them into what is called a ‘catabolic’ state, one in which muscle tissue suffers tiny areas of damage known as ‘microtears’.

During the recovery period between training sessions, you go into an anabolic state. In this stage, your body responds to tissue damage by fixing the micotears – and creating even more muscle. (!)

Developing the body you want involves both physical effort and smart thinking. Using the right BCCA supplement at the right time can make a world of difference.

More on this subject next week and also on our website, www.cdrnaturals.com. But do not make any changes in your diet or lifestyle without consulting with your preventive healthcare practitioner. In the mean time we will continue to pray for your health and prosperity, 3 John 2, blessings, Donna.