New sports nutritional supplements products hit the market every day. There are so many supplements today that it is almost impossible to know each product that is available. Many athletes stick to a product they know very well and stick with it. Others feel that the 'old' ones just don't do the job and switch to something new. Products are also getting better. But there is nothing wrong with the 'old' ones.



This huge supply of products is interesting. In a free market where products are competing against each other, manufactures are forced to lower prices to stay in competition. In this competitive market you are the winner. You can find equally good supplements for lower prices if you don't choose the latest or hottest products. With the marketing for new products this can be hard to resist. Manufacturers are persuading you to step into the latest craze, it is up to you to resist or not.

But what are you looking for in this huge market? Of course you're looking for quality products for a good price. The objective here in this article is not to sell you any brands or point you to (web) stores. As difficult as it is not to name any brands or store(s) we will try to it clear which products are the must haves. The aim here is to make you realize the big opportunity to save money.

If you need lots of energy to complete a rigorous exercise program or to peak during competition you could take carbohydrates. Carbohydrates maintain blood glucose levels and increase muscle glycogen, during intense exercise. This will supply your muscles sufficient energy. Carbohydrates can be taken before or during exercise or competition. It comes in solid form like a bar or liquid form like shakes or special drinks. It is also important to consume liquids during exercise and liquid carbohydrates fit this need. Experts suggest that 350 ml of a sport drink with carbohydrates should be taken every 20 min during exercise. Of course this will not be possible for all sports, but you need to see this as a guideline.

Proteins are very important for athletes. They are needed for muscle growth and repair. Many physical sports need muscle growth and stimulation although the aim of the sport itself is not muscle growth per se. These products are often offered at a good price and quality is also good.

Since men crossed the oceans with wooden ships we know that vitamin C is extremely important in fighting diseases. It took a while before researchers found out that all the oranges and lemons contain vitamin C. Now research has pointed out that it also plays an important part in restoring t-cell damage resulting from physical activities, and even during extreme emotional stress. Too really benefit from this one needs several thousands of milligrams of vitamin C to restores these cells. It takes an awful lot of oranges and lemons to get these amounts. It would be hard to consume them all on a daily basis. Supplements are the solution. This way you can consume the needed amount without drinking or eating excessive amounts of citrus fruits.

Another useful product is bee honey. Research shows that bee honey improves performance. You need to take this before and during exercise to benefit. It also is capable of maintaining blood sugar in consistent levels, even several hours after exercise. Honey is also unique in sustaining restoration of muscle energy, after the exercise. Honey is therefore not only found in your local supermarket but also in the supplement shops.

When it comes to recovery after exercise, glutamine is an important supplement. Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in your body. Your skeletal muscle and plasma contains the most concentrated supply of glutamine. Glutamine is important in the transfer of nitrogen between the internal organs. It also plays an important role in detoxifying ammonia.

Keep in mind that supplements are only needed if your body needs more than your daily food diet offers. The dosage is on an individual basis, every one has different needs and more is not always better. It is always best to consult a nutrition specialist or a personal coach. But if you would like to start with these supplements, take note of this huge market and buy economically.