Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Synephrine is considered a biogenic amine that appears to have metabolic effects similar to epinephrine. It is commonly obtained by ingestion of citrus arantium, an herb marketed as a fat loss aid. Little research is available regarding the influence of oral synephrine supplementation and there are no studies available that assess its potential to enhance…

Sports nutrition encompasses all aspects of the study of nutrition for athletes. This includes but is not limited to assessment of dietary intake and nutritional status of athletes, determination of dietary principles, nutrients and supplements that impact exercise performance, and counseling athletes for optimal dietary intake. The exploration and application of the principles of nourishment…

Sports gels are carbohydrate-rich semisolids used to replenish glucose utilized during exercise. Some sports gels contain vitamins, amino acids, glycerol, caffeine, herbals, and other constituents, also. Separate entries regarding the potential ergogenic benefits of many of these ingredients are provided throughout this book.  

Sports drinks are typically designed to provide fluid, carbohydrate, and electrolyte replacement. Separate entries are provided for carbohydrate and electrolytes, and the importance of fluids for the prevention of dehydration is described in the entry for hydration. At least 25 commercial sports drinks are available for purchase in the U.S.  

Sports bars are often a convenient source of nutrients required by athletes before, during, and after training or competition. Many commercial sports bars are available providing varying amounts of macronutrients and micronutrients. Whether or not a sports bar can provide ergogenic benefits depends upon many factors including their timing of consumption as well as their…

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains protein and various vitamins and minerals. Although spirulina can contribute essential nutrients to the diet, evidence that it can provide an ergogenic effect is lacking.  

The ergogenic potential of sodium citrate has received some attention for its possible effects as a buffer within the body. Consumption of 0.3 to 0.5 g per kg body weight (21 to 35 g in an average 70- kg adult) appears to produce a buffering effect on blood pH. Theoretically, this capacity may have implications…

Smilax is considered an anabolic herb due to its sterol content that provides testosterone-like effects according to manufacturers. Anabolic herbs are assumed to be converted in the body into anabolic steroids, and are most commonly used by bodybuilders and weight lifters. However, there is no evidence to support the conversion of plant sterols to testosterone…

Fatty acids with chain lengths of 2 to 4 carbons are considered short-chain fatty acids.  

S-adenosylmethionine is considered a chiefphysiological methyl donor.351 SAM-e manufacturers claim that it is beneficial for treating a wide range of ailments including depression, osteoarthritis, liver disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and migraine headaches. There are no known benefits of SAM-e supplementation for athletes.