Top Supplements for Bulking Up

Top Supplements for Bulking Up

By: Robbie Durand

Winter is approaching and for many lifters, that means one thing: “Time to Put on Size!!” The offseason is the time to let your body heal from the vigorous weeks of dieting and competition suffered throughout the year. Everyone knows that it’s difficult to put on quality muscle while dieting so the offseason is a welcome time for eating and putting on muscle. It’s easy to gain muscle when there is adequate calories and rest, that’s what makes the offseason so crucial is that the following year, the amount of muscle is displayed on stage.

Supplements can greatly enhance the gains you make over the offseason, but you want to focus on making lean muscle mass gains and not putting on fat. It is much harder to get rid of the fat later on than focusing on lean muscle mass gains. Here are the Infinite Labs supplements that should be in your pantry closet for the winter for muscle gains:

1.) HMB
2.) Infinite Pro Whey Protein
3.) Cyclo Test
4.) Massport
5.) Juggernaut X

Here is the Science Behind the Ingredients for Muscle Mass

1.) HMB
β-Hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB), a leucine-derived metabolite has been demonstrated to augment strength and lean muscle gains when supplemented in conjunction with resistance training. HMB is known to increase muscle protein synthesis through mTOR signaling pathways while concurrently reducing muscle tissue breakdown. Many studies have indicated that HMB supplementation may elicit several ergogenic benefits, including anti-catabolic effects. One study reported that HMB stabilized cell membranes resulting in reduced circulating creatine kinase, which is a marker for muscle damage. So HMB is going to help out with muscle recuperation. Researchers wanted to compare HMB, whey protein, and some carbohydrates before, during, and after exercise.

Under normal conditions, ~5% of leucine consumed is converted in the body to HMB. Overall, the preliminary results suggest that supplementation of HMB with 1.5 to 3 g·day-1 of can increase lean muscle mass and strength in a resistance-training program. It can be found in nature, but it is difficult and impractical to get on a regular basis, for example, 3 grams per day. Therefore, supplementation may be beneficial for strength training practitioners or those under extreme muscular stress who want to improve athletic performance. If you look at the research, there is a staggering amount of research to support the validity of HMB for increasing lean muscle mass and improving performance:

– Vukovich et al. reported that eight wks of supplementation with HMB-Ca (3 g·day-1) significantly increased lean body mass and promoted 1 RM strength increases in a group of elderly men and women beginning a training program.

-Gallagher et al. analyzed the effects of HMB-Ca supplementation (3 and six grams per ·day) for 8 wks of resistance training on a group of untrained men and noticed that there was a significant decrease in markers of muscle damage (i.e. creatine kinase) with an increase in lean body mass in the 3 g·day-1 group.

-Ferreira et al. reported a significant increase in lean body mass and strength gain associated with resistance training in elite kayakers when supplemented with three grams·day-1 HMB-Ca.

2.) HMB and Whey Protein Packs on Muscle: Synergistic Effects

In addition to HMB, whey protein has synergistic effects when combined with HMB. Researchers had resistance-trained men ingest a whey protein, HMB, and carbohydrate supplement or just whey protein at intervals before, during, and following three consecutive days of intense resistance exercise. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using blood-based muscle damage markers and hormones, perceptual measures of muscle soreness, and counter-movement jump performance. The supplement contained 260 kcal, 20 grams of whey protein, 1.5 g HMB, 41 g carbohydrate, 2 g fat) or whey protein (100 kcal, 20 g protein, 2.5 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat).

At the end of the study, researchers observed reductions in markers of muscle damage and improved athletic performance in subjects taking the whey protein, HMB, and carbohydrate supplement, suggesting that whey protein supplementation can be optimized for muscle recovery during intense conditioning by adding HMB and a slow-release carbohydrate.

Although whey protein alone has been shown to be an effective supplement, the addition of HMB and a carbohydrate further mediates the recovery process, as evidenced by reduced muscle damage, lower perceived soreness, and improved athletic performance. This means that when trying to make optimal gains in strength and size, bodybuilders can benefit from the use of whey protein, HMB, and carbohydrates.

3.) CYCLOTEST

CYCLOTEST is Infinite Labs most advanced testosterone support product on the market. CYCLOTEST may help support:

• LEAN MASS DEVELOPMENT*
• ANABOLIC SUPPORT*
• LIBIDO*

Here are a list of ingredients in CYCLOTEST designed to support optimal testosterone levels:

TestoSurge® is a patented proprietary substance extracted from Fenugreek seeds that has been shown to assist in total testosterone and bioavailable testosterone levels, while simultaneously supporting fat loss. During a period of 8 weeks, Fenugreek has been shown to support serum testosterone levels in resistance-trained males relative to placebo (experiencing a decline in testosterone relative to baseline).

L-Citrulline- Citrulline supplements are often suggested for athletes and bodybuilders working to support performance and energy levels.

Citrulline has been shown to help remove toxic ammonia from muscles, which may be one manner by which it can support muscle activity. Citrulline is also converted into arginine which produces nitric oxide, suggested to support cardiovascular functioning. A common cause of the decline in sexual function in men is unhealthy arteries that feed blood to the reproductive organs. Together, these ingredients work by influencing enzymes in the nitric oxide pathway, causing a cascade of enzymatic reactions that support nitric oxide—ultimately initiating more blood flow to various organs throughout the body. Moreover, Citrulline has also been found to support repetitions performed in the gym.

Boron Citrate– Boron is an essential nutrient for optimal calcium metabolism and healthy bones and joints. Boron may also affect human hormone levels and support a healthy prostate. In one study, eight healthy male subjects ingested 10mg of boron in the morning with breakfast for seven consecutive days. After those seven days, the men had shown increased free testosterone levels by a staggering 28%, while their estrogen levels simultaneously dropped by 39%.

L-Carnitine-L-Tartrate (LCLT)– LCLT is used for muscle recovery and assisted functioning of androgen receptors. Supporting testosterone is not going to provide the gains in lean muscle mass if there are no androgen receptors to actively bind to. One study found when men were given 2g of LCLT (divided into two portions per day) for a period of three weeks, they experienced an increase in androgen receptors. LCLT has recently been found to support fat loss and recovery from exercise. LCLT has also been found to lower the production of free radicals and decrease muscle damage and soreness after exercise.

Tribulus Terrestris- Tribulus Terrestris is a vine plant that is native to temperate climates in areas of southern Europe, southern Asia, Australia and Africa. It has a long history of uses, from supporting muscular development to overall health. Tribulus has been suggested to support levels of testosterone while simultaneously assisting energy levels, recovery time, and muscle gain. Several studies have also found that Tribulus has synergistic effects with other nutrients to help support testosterone.

Zinc– Zinc is an important mineral that plays a vital role in protein synthesis and assists in regulating the cells production in the immune system of the human body. Zinc also plays a major role in the enzyme, hormone, and immune functions. Zinc serum levels are positively associated with serum testosterone. In human studies on zinc deficiency, supplementation of zinc has been shown to assist circulating testosterone concentrations, with a particular study noting 250mg of zinc sulfate for six weeks, can support testosterone by 84%9. Infertile men who also have low testosterone (less than 4.8ng/mL) have been shown to experience an increase in testosterone following zinc supplementation. Normal testosterone levels have been associated with a higher Zinc level.

Calcium Glucarate– Estrogen is needed in the male body for normal functioning, however, increased estrogen levels can have negative consequences, including water retention and Gynecomastia (female breast tissue). Calcium Glucarate works to stabilize abnormally high levels of estrogen by allowing excess estrogens to be passed out of the body, while also inhibiting beta-glucuronidase to permit various toxins to be removed.

4.) MASSPORT
Post-workout supplementation has been suggested to be one of the most important variables to maximizing your gains in muscle mass and recuperation. It’s well established that post-exercise muscle recovery, repair, and growth, ultimately determines the benefits of exercise to the development of lean body mass. Muscle recuperation is reliant on glucose, amino acids, and energy availability for optimal rates of muscle glycogen and protein synthesis. MASSPORT™ is the ultimate anabolic stimulator for protein synthesis, muscle growth, recuperation, and rehydration to promote muscle fullness after you workout. MASSPORT™ contains five key recovery complexes specially formulated for those individuals working to acquire bigger gains from their workout regimen. After intense exercise, your muscles are like a sponge waiting to soak up nutrients. Consuming MASSPORT™ increases anabolic nutrients aimed to support recovery, protein synthesis, rehydration, muscle fullness and future performance.

Massport™ contains a precise blend of carbohydrates and creatine, betaine, glycerol and BCAAs, and glutamine to kick start the growth and recovery process immediately upon consumption. Massport™ may be the ideal supplement to assist in your overall recovery process. Unlike many other mass gainers, that fill you up, the great thing about MASSPORT™ is that its low in calories, so it won’t affect your appetite and meant to be consumed immediately post exercise so that it won’t affect post-exercise meal.

MASSPORT™ supports post-workout gains in:
• Muscle mass and strength.
• Plasma volume, vascularity & fullness.
• Blood glucose recovery & glycogen repletion.
• Protein anabolism

5.) Juggernaut X

JUGGERNAUT X® is the ultimate pre-workout supplement to support workout intensity, stamina, muscular endurance, strength, and massive muscle pumps. JUGGERNAUT X® is the industry-leading muscular and plasma expansion supplement. These complexes work seamlessly across the muscle cell, with intracellular and vascular spaces providing entire-muscle support of volume, anabolism, and hypertrophy. Juggernaut X has been designed to provide users with a unique, “plasma expanding” pump. With included ingredients such as Agmatine Sulfate, Citrulline, CarnoSyn®, Malic Acid, Caffeine, Tyrosine, and Creapure. Our unique formula combines all of the necessary ingredients to ensure you receive the ‘boost’ needed for that optimal training session desired by many athletes and bodybuilders.

Juggernaut X may support:
• Increased Lean Mass*
• Stimulating Muscle Fiber Growth*
• Explosive Power*
• Prolong the “Pump” Sensation*
• Enhanced Mental Focus*
• Significantly Reducing Fatigue*
• Improved Blood Flow*
• Buffering Lactic Acid in Muscles*

JUGGERNAUT X MAY SUPPORT:

• EFFECTIVELY DOSED INGREDIENTS: With 8 grams of L-Citrulline, 2.5 grams of Creapure Creatine and 2.5 grams of Carnosyn Beta Alanine with every serving.

• Muscular Strength and Explosive Power , Blood Flow and Muscle Pumps, Muscular Stamina and Endurance, Athletic Performance

• Juggernaut X is the ultimate pre-workout supplement to support workout intensity, stamina and muscular endurance, strength, and massive muscle pumps

• FORMULATED TO SUPPORT: Energy & stamina, overall athletic performance and blood low and oxygen to working muscles

• A PRE WORKOUT FEATURING: Citrulline, Agmatine Sulfate, CarnoSyn beta alanine , Malic Acid, Caffeine, Tyrosine and Creapure

Beta-Alanine is a non-essential amino acid and is the only naturally occurring beta-amino acid. When engaging in intense training, the body will accumulate large amounts of hydrogen ions (H+), which cause the muscles pH to decrease and become more acidic. When pH decreases, strength will also begin to subside and fatigue will set in. These limitations hinder you from adequately overloading your muscles and inhibit muscle gains. By supplementing with beta-alanine, the bodys carnosine levels are supported. Carnosine acts as an intracellular buffer, which aids in stabilizing muscular pH by soaking up hydrogen ions that are released during exercise.

Agmatine is synthesized in the brain, stored in synaptic vesicles, collected by uptake, discharged by membrane depolarization, and inactivated by agmatinase. As a result of these effects, supplementing any athletic and/or bodybuilding regimen with Agmatine may support athletic performance, fat loss, muscle size, vascularity and fullness. Additional benefits include antioxidant support, and recovery support. Arginine was the “miracle worker” of its time, but Agmatine appears to be an even better supplemental option in regards to supporting body physique advancements and performance.

Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid made by all living organisms. It is formed in metabolic cycles in the cells and is produced and broken down in the human body every day. Malic acid is involved in cell metabolism and is the source of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which assumes a central role in the energy production rates of all cells in the human body. For instance, in both the glyoxalate and Kreb cycles, it provides the cells with carbon skeletons and energy for the formation of amino acids.

Creatine Monohydrate is one of the original forms of creatine that was introduced in the form of a supplement. It is a compound made up of three amino acids: Arginine, Methionine, and Glycine, and is produced primarily in the liver. It can also be found in various meats and fish. Creatine provides additional energy to the muscles, acts as a lactic acid buffer, serves as a hydration mechanism for the cells, and supports protein synthesis.

Caffeine is the most commonly consumed supplement in the world, as it is inexpensive, medically safe and legal. Caffeine acts as a central nervous system stimulant and promotes mental alertness, focus, and can facilitate overall body coordination.* It has been suggested to support physical endurance and delay onset of fatigue.

L-Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid with a polar side group found in foods such as fish, dairy and meat. L-tyrosine is a precursor to several neurotransmitters including epinephrine. These chemicals are in charge of various functions such as energy, mood and appetite. Tyrosine has also been suggested to support the metabolic rate of the body.

L-Citrulline is an amino acid that supports arginine and nitric oxide concentrations, ultimately assisting in the regulation of blood flow and muscular endurance. A new study recently just reported that 8 grams of citrulline a day increases leg performance in experienced weight lifters. Researchers had experienced weight lifters take citrulline before performing submaximal repeated bouts of multiple lower-body resistance exercises would improve performance. The exercise protocol resulted in significant decrease in the number of repetitions in response to exercise. However, subjects in the citrulline group performed significantly higher number of repetitions compared with placebo group. In conclusion, results suggest that citrulline supplementation may be beneficial in improving exercise performance during lower-body multiple-bout resistance exercise in advanced resistance-trained men.

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Kreider RB, Almada AL, Antonio J, Broeder C, Earnest C, Greenwood M, Incledon T, Kalman DS, Kleiner SM, Leutholtz B, Lowery LM, Mendel R, Stout JR, Willoughby DS, Ziegenfuss TN. ISSN Exercise and Sport Nutrition Review: Research and Recommendations. Sports Nutrition Review Journal. 1(1):1-44, 2004.

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