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Video: Erin Stern Fitness 360

May 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Top Figure Athlete Erin Stern is the focus of Bodybuilding.com’s newest Fitness 360 feature. The fit Floridian shares how she got her start in the world of competitive figure and what her approach is to diet and training. She’s been able to transition from track & field to Figure. She mixes up her training and her meal plans throughout the year.

erin-stern

When asked about her diet she shares, “It’s definitely not a diet.” Erin stresses the importance of making healthy eating a lifestyle. Many people say this catch phrase but she lives it. She talks about setting goals, supplementation and training in the video shown below. It’s important to know why you are eating what you are and Erin lives by the philosophy that “knowledge is power”.

See more on Erin Stern’s Fitness 360 Feature.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements, Workouts

Food and Drug Administration Warns DMAA Potentially Dangerous

April 12, 2013 by 1 Comment

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued another story related to the use of dimethylamylamine (DMAA) in supplements. The FDA warned companies known to be using the ingredient that their products are illegal. The only company that did not stop using DMAA as an ingredient was USPLabs, which challenges the FDA’s findings.

fda-warning


ARTICLE FROM THE FDA
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is using all available tools at its disposal to ensure that dietary supplements containing a stimulant called dimethylamylamine (DMAA) are no longer distributed and available for sale to consumers in the marketplace.

The ingredient, DMAA, is most commonly used in supplements promising weight loss, muscle building and performance enhancement; it can elevate blood pressure and could lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, shortness of breath and tightening of the chest. Given the known biological activity of DMAA, the ingredient may be particularly dangerous when used with caffeine.

As of April 11, 2013, FDA had received 86 reports of illnesses and death associated with supplements containing DMAA. The majority are voluntary reports from consumers and healthcare practitioners. The illnesses reported include heart problems and nervous system or psychiatric disorders. Note, however, that a report is not proof that the product actually caused the problem.

FDA has warned companies known to be using DMAA in dietary supplements that those products containing this ingredient are illegal. Such warnings offer the quickest way at FDA’s disposal to halt the further distribution of dietary supplements containing DMAA in the marketplace. In fact, all but one of the companies sent a Warning Letter have agreed to stop using DMAA as an ingredient in their dietary supplements. The one company that has yet to agree to such action, USPLabs, has responded to FDA’s warning by submitting published studies that purport to challenge FDA’s conclusions.

However, after reviewing the studies provided by USPLabs, FDA has found the information insufficient to defend the use of DMAA as an ingredient in dietary supplements. FDA is finalizing a formal response to the firm to reflect its findings, according to Daniel Fabricant, Ph.D., director of FDA’s Division of Dietary Supplement Program.

FDA’s authority over dietary supplements is very different from its authority over drugs and other medical products. FDA is required to undertake what are usually lengthy scientific and legal steps in order to force the removal of dietary supplements that may be unsafe or are otherwise illegal if companies don’t voluntarily comply.

As FDA continues the process needed to get DMAA off the market, the agency is urging consumers to check labels and avoid any dietary supplements containing DMAA, which is referred to on different product labels by 10 possible names. The alternatives are listed at FDA’s DMAA web page.

FDA’s response to the use of DMAA illustrates the challenges that the agency faces in addressing incidents involving potentially dangerous dietary supplements. The effort is increasingly important as the use of dietary supplements increases worldwide. A 2011 study found that more than half of U.S. adults used a dietary supplement between 2003 and 2006, compared to 40% between 1988 and 1994.

In recent years, FDA has alerted consumers to hundreds of tainted products marketed as dietary supplements. Consumers should be aware that dietary supplements are subject to different oversight than drugs and other medical products.

“Consumers may mistakenly look at a capsule and think that FDA has signed off on that product as safe and effective prior to that product appearing on the market, as we do with drugs and other medical products,” says Fabricant. “In contrast, with dietary supplements, there is no pre-market approval, and once a product is on the market, the burden is on the FDA to prove that a product is unsafe.”

FDA’s role in overseeing dietary supplements is laid out in a 1994 law and subsequent amendments. FDA’s enforcement capabilities range from issuing warning letters seeking voluntary cooperation—the quickest way to get a product off the market—to bringing criminal charges. In recent years, FDA enforcement actions involving dietary supplements have included banning products, executing injunctions, working with U.S. marshals to seize products, and issuing safety alerts and consent decrees—which are agreements approved and enforced by a federal court.

In many cases, FDA has acted when dietary supplements were found to contain ingredients approved for use in prescription drugs. DMAA was approved in 1948 for use as a nasal decongestant, but the approval was withdrawn in 1983.

The products cited in the warning letter to USPLabs are Oxy Elite Pro and Jack3D. These products claim, among other things, to be fat-burning and performance-enhancing supplements, respectively. While action in that case in pending, FDA is following up to ensure that other companies which promised to cease using DMAA as an ingredient in their dietary supplements are actually doing so. FDA is also looking to see if there are other dietary supplement products containing DMAA in the marketplace, and will continue to act to ensure that such products, when identified, are no longer distributed and available for sale to consumers.

Consumers are urged to report any problems associated with supplement use to the company or the agency, and to always consult with their health care professional before using a supplement.

This article appears on FDA’s Consumer Updates page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.

Story from FDA.gov.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Happy Birthday Bodybuilding.com – Celebrate by Saving Big

April 11, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Bodybuilding.com has become the online leader for not only great content but also amazing deals on supplements and nutritional products. The company celebrates it’s 14th Birthday today, April 11, 2013 and is offering visitors big savings. If you’re a little low on protein or maybe you need a new pre-workout supplement, stop by Bodybuilding.com and use the promo code BDAY20. The 20% off coupon only works until 12:00am PST so get a move on!

happy-birthday

 

Use Your “BDAY20″ Coupon on These Brands
Optimum Nutrition Products
MusclePharm Products
BSN Products
Dymatize Products
Cellucor Products
MuscleTech Products
BPI Products
Infinite Labs Products
ProMera Products
Gaspari Nutrition Products
CytoSport Monster Products
Met-Rx Products
USPlabs Products
Top Secret Products
Driven Sports Products
VPX Products
MHP Products
Betancourt Nutrition Products
PharmaFreak Products
Axis Labs Products
Beast Products
Athletic Edge Products
iSS Research Products
EAS Products
Controlled Labs Products
MRM Products
SmartShake Products
ErgoGenix Products
Magnum Products
ProLab Products
Nutrex Research Products
EXT Products
Cobra Labs Products
Fitmiss Products
iForce Nutrition Products
Natrol Products
Supreme Protein Products
Harbinger Products
MRI Products
Pro Supps Products
Nutrabolics Products
Inner Armour Products

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

25 Deals to Celebrate 25 Years of The Arnold Classic

February 25, 2013 by Leave a Comment

This week marks the 25th Anniversary of the Arnold Classic. In celebration of this monumental event the folks at bodybuilding.com are offering 25 awesome deals. Save nearly 50% of some of your favorite supplements, vitamins, clothing and more! What better way to celebrate an anniversary than by saving some money? Visit Bodybuilding.com’s 25 Deals‘ page but hurry it won’t last long.

arnold-deals

See all of the deals including a limited edition stack on bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Supplements

What’s the Deal with Deer Antler Supplements?

February 1, 2013 by 1 Comment

Our resident Health expert, Dr. Tracey Greenwood breaks down what the deal is with deer antler supplements. The “banned” supplement has become a hot topic since being mentioned in a Sports Illustrated story related to the NFL and Ray Lewis. It’s important to note that while it may be banned by the NFL it’s not an illegal supplement. Is it safe and what are the benefits for women? Read on…

deer-antler


Deer Antler Velvet
Deer Antler Velvet is taken from an adolescent deer before their antlers turn to bone. It comes in many supplemental forms such as spray, powder and pills.

The benefits of this new popular supplement for both men and women consist of:

• Increased strength & endurance
• Increased lean body mass
• Anti-Aging
• Reduce or Slow Signs of Aging
• Improve Immune System
• Accelerated Illness & Muscle Recovery
• Improve Athletic Performance
• Chronic Skin Ulcers
• Relieve Arthritis
• Increased Blood Circulation
• Increase Number of Red Blood Cells
• Reduce or Slow Tissue, Bone and Muscle Degeneration

The active ingredient in deer antler velvet is Insulin–like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is similar in molecular structure to insulin. Its production is stimulated by growth hormone. Growth hormone is made in the anterior pituitary gland, is released into the blood stream, and then stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1. IGF-1 then stimulates systemic body growth, and has growth-promoting effects on almost every cell in the body, especially skeletal muscle, cartilage, bone, liver, kidneys, nerves, skin and lungs.

Metabolic Effects
Mediated through IGF-1, Growth Hormone facilitates the transport of amino acids across cell membrane, which results in increased amounts of RNA leading to increased protein synthesis producing an anabolic effect on skeletal muscle.

With regards to carbohydrate metabolism, IGF-1 acts much like insulin, and administration of IGF-1 tends towards a hypoglycemic state. IGF-1 is thought to be extremely important in the overall action of insulin on skeletal muscle because it moves glucose out of the blood and into the muscle to assist in growth. IGF-1 results in improved insulin sensitivity, which may be of benefit for someone with diseases that cause insulin resistance such as Diabetes and Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome.

IGF-1 may have some effects on lipolysis through facilitation of growth hormone. Growth hormone increases the phosphorylation of a hormone called Hormone Sensitive Lipase (HSL). HSL liberates stored fats and increases fat oxidation at rest as well as during exercise. Growth hormones is one of the greatest stimulators of fat metabolism.

Exclusive Benefits for Women
A possible added benefit of Deer Antler velvet for women is the speculation that it can balance hormones during menopause. Pantocrine, an active ingredient in deer antler velvet, is officially recommended for menopausal issues in Russia. Pantocrine has been found to alleviate menopausal symptoms as well as abnormal and delayed menstrual cycles. Pantocrine on its own may help women during menopause. Studies performed in Russia, showed that women taking deer velvet reported diminished symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, even to the point where their periods passed by almost unnoticed. They have also reported increased sexual interest, and a sense of being in touch with deeper reserves of vital energy, and anti aging effects in their skin.

It is always my belief that these “new” natural supplements need to be given time for extensive scientific research to prove the health claims to be valid.

REFERENCES:
Elliot, J.L. et al. Presence of insulin-like growth factor-I receptors and absence of growth hormone receptors in the antler tip. Endocrinology 1992 130: 2513-20.

Lewitt M. et al. Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein-1 Modulates Blood Glucose Levels. Endocrinology 1991 129: 2254-2256.

Sleivert, G. et al. The effects of deer antler velvet extract or powder supplementation on aerobic power, erythropoiesis, and muscular strength and endurance characteristics. Int. Journal of Sports Nutrition & Exercise, 2003 Sep; 13 (3): 251-65.

Suttie, J. et al. Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1) Antler Stimulating Hormone? Endocrinology 1985 116: 846-848.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements Tagged With: , , ,

Protein Powders Decoded

January 25, 2013 by Leave a Comment

If you’ve ever bought a protein powder you’ve probably scratched your head at some point wondering, what the heck is that? When protein powder first hit the market there were few choices and fewer flavors. Now there are a million and one flavor profiles and various types of protein. Men’s Health recently compiled a list of various protein types and broke down what each means.

protein-powders
This should help you better understand what each protein is and how to read the labels. Visit Bodybuilding.com for more information on what the best protein powder for you.

PROTEIN POWDERS:
Whey: A type of protein in milk. Considered a “fast” protein because it’s quickly broken down into amino acids and absorbed into your bloodstream.

Casein: Another type of milk protein. Because this type is digested more slowly, it’s ideal for providing your body with smaller amounts of protein for a longer period or time—such as between meals or while you sleep.

Soy: If a soy protein is listed as the first or second ingredient, choose another product. Isoflavones, the active compounds in soy, have been shown to raise estrogen levels in men.

Concentrate: Contains slightly more carbohydrates and fat than purer forms, but also contains more health-promoting components. Can be clumpy.

Isolate: A purer form of protein, so it contains less fat and carbohydrate.

Hydrosylate, or hydrolyzed protein: Protein broken down into smaller fractions, so it’s absorbed into your body faster than a concentrate or isolate.

Micellar casein, or isolated casein peptides: Almost pure casein protein. Absorbs slowly into the bloodstream. Can be pricey.

Caseinate: A type of casein protein that is less expensive than micellar casein, but isn’t as pure of a protein.

Milk protein: An ingredient that mirrors milk’s protein composition—80 percent casein, 20 percent whey.

Egg-white protein, or instantized egg albumin: A high-quality protein made from eggs. Good for cooking.

Read more at Men’s Health.

Note, this was published on MEN’s HEALTH some info may not be applicable to women.

 

Filed Under: Supplements, TIPS Tagged With: , ,

Gaspari Nutrition Announces New Look for 2013

January 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Gaspari Nutrition is introducing a new branding and packaging design. Founder and CEO Rich Gaspari shared, “My brand has really come a long way over the years and continues to evolve, which is very exciting.” He went on to say, “I’m now ready to take it to the next level with an enthusiastic management team and an all new look for 2013.”
gaspari-redesign

 

Gaspari Nutrition’s new look, set for completion in 2013

(PRWEB) January 15, 2013 – Gaspari Nutrition®, a globally distributed sport nutrition company, has formally announced they are introducing a new packaging design for their line of sports nutrition products.

Now it is easier than ever to distinguish Gaspari Nutrition products from other nutrition brands, as well as from each other. Keep an eye out for the revolutionary new look including white lids, the same blue bottle Gaspari Nutrition has been distinctively know for, and a stunning white label. The new labels showcase more information at the front of the packaging like suggested times to use, product benefits and nutritional highlights.

The first products which alluded to this change were launched in 2012. With the release of the new and highly anticipated Myofusion Elite Protein Series, it is now official that Gaspari Nutrition has a fresh look that is here to stay. Whether you come across their old or new packaging, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll be getting the same great products that are critically acclaimed around the world. The next product to embrace this change will be Anavite. This sports nutrition favorite is a multivitamin and mineral formula that includes high doses of amino acids such as Carnipure Carnitine Tartrate and Carnosyn Beta-Alanine. It’s the same great formula only now with no artificial colors and a new look.

“My brand has really come a long way over the years and continues to evolve, which is very exciting” said CEO Rich Gaspari. “I’m now ready to take it to the next level with an enthusiastic management team and an all new look for 2013.”

Newer products such as Glycofuse, which is a revolutionary low osmolarity carbohydrate drink mix, already have this new look. The same goes for Aminolast, which is a properly dosed branched chain amino acid drink mix that utilizes Albion minerals as electrolytes for performance athletes. Rest assured that more established products undergoing this shift in packaging design will still have the same great Gaspari Nutrition signature formulations.

Gaspari Nutrition’s complete sports nutrition product portfolio is expected to complete their transition by the end of 2013. This new look represents Gaspari Nutrition’s continued commitment to quality control as the new designs have a cleaner and brighter appeal while supporting regulatory compliance around the world.

About Gaspari Nutrition®
Gaspari Nutrition is headquartered in Lakewood, NJ and is a rapidly expanding, healthy lifestyle sports company that develops and distributes a full line of nutritional supplements. Gaspari’s propriety and award winning products address all categories of an active lifestyle including muscle building, weight loss, and general fitness through a daily nutritional supplement regimen. They are one of the few companies to sponsor independent, 3rd party research on their products to prove their efficacy. Gaspari Nutrition is sold in over 95 countries and available in over 5,000 US retail outlets that include GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Kroger, Dick’s Sporting Goods as well as over 100 online stores, including Bodybuilding.com, Amazon and DrugStore.com.

For more information, please visit http://www.GaspariNutrition.com.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements Tagged With: , , ,

Amplify Your Hardbody with Team Gaspari’s Detonate – How to WIN

January 7, 2013 by Leave a Comment

We’ve teamed up with Gaspari Nutrition this week to offer you a chance to win FREE Detonate. Now you can get an extra kick to your New Year’s Resolutions with one of the leading fat burners on the market. What to amplify your hardbody? Check out the details below on how you can win.

detonate1


ENTER to WIN: (must be in USA)
Every day this week you will have a different chance to win a free bottle of DETONATE. Check back each day on how you can win. We’ll post the winner’s for each day here on hardbody and how to enter the next day.

WEDNESDAY  // 01.09.13:  RT/LIKE the Let’s GO! Libby DiBiase photo on facebook and twitter.

TUESDAY // 01.08.13: Follow Hardbodynews & TeamGaspari on Twitter. Retweet today’s HARDBODY message and you could be the next winner. New to twitter? Sign up and send “hey @hardbodynews, I want to amplify my #HARDBODY with @TeamGaspari #detonate”

MONDAY // 01.07.13: Visit Gaspari Nutrition’s Facebook page and “LIKE” it. Once you’ve done that post on their wall the following…

I’m A HARDBODY and would like to win a bottle of DETONATE because __________.

Fill in the blank. One HARDBODY will receive a bottle of DETONATE.

Congratulations! Monday’s winner was Dominic Romero. Dominic wrote, I’m A HARDBODY and would like to win a bottle of DETONATE because I’m the perfect candidate to use it and give it a review. Currently 16 weeks out from a show and this will definitely speed up the cutting phase. When in doubt Go Gaspari!!!

 

detonate-banner

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED DETONATE QUESTIONS

What type of results can I expect from DETONATE?
From the first dose, you’ll notice a strong stimulant and sensory effect.* Our clinical studies have demonstrated support for weight loss and lean body mass recomposition over a four week period when following the directions correctly.*

Is the DETONATE formula based on real human clinical trials?
Yes, Detonate has two clinical trials to support its formulation and safety. Gaspari Nutrition is well known for its 3rd party clinical trials and many more are planned in the future to better serve you by providing accurate claims.

Can I stack DETONATE with other products?
Yes. DETONATE stacks well with BCAA products like AminoLast, Myofusion Probiotic Series, etc. It should not be taken with other products that contain stimulants such as caffeine.

How do I take DETONATE?
Take 1-2 capsules on an empty stomach before breakfast. Due to the potential potency, begin by taking 1 capsule before breakfast for the first three days and add 1 capsule before breakfast should the need arise. Please DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT FOR LONGER THAN 4 WEEKS FOLLOWED BY A 4 WEEK BREAK. Also, do not exceed more than 2 capsules in a 24 hour period. Detonate is a powerful product so please follow all directions and warnings carefully.

Directions For Detonate: As a dietary supplement, take 1-2 capsules on an empty stomach before breakfast. Due to the potential potency, begin by taking 1 capsule before breakfast for the first three days, and add 1 capsule before breakfast should the need arise. DO NOT USE PRODUCT FOR LONGER THAN 4 WEEKS FOLLOWED BY A SUBSEQUENT 4 WEEK BREAK. DO NOT EXCEED 2 CAPSULES IN ANY 24 HOUR PERIOD. READ THE PRODUCT WARNING BEFORE USE.

IMPORTANT: Consume at least 125 fl. oz. (3,696 mL) of water per day for men and 91 fl. oz. (2,691 mL) of water per day for women while taking this product. EXCEEDING THE RECOMMENDED SERVINGS, NOT FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS, OR NOT FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS MAY LEAD TO UNWANTED EFFECTS.

Warnings: This product is only intended to be consumed by healthy adults 18 years of age or older. Pregnant or nursing women should not use this product. Consult with your health care provider before using this product, especially if you are taking any prescription, over the counter medication, dietary supplement product or if you have any pre-existing medical condition including but not limited to: high or low blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, stroke, heart, liver, kidney or thyroid disease, seizure disorder, psychiatric disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to prostate enlargement or if you are taking a MAO-B inhibitor or any other medication, including but not limited to MAOIs, SSRIs or any other compounds with serotonergic activity. This product contains caffeine and should not be taken by individuals wishing to eliminate this ingredient from their diet. Discontinue use 2 weeks prior to surgery. Do not use in combination with caffeine or any stimulants from other sources whatsoever, including but not limited to, coffee, tea, soda and other dietary supplements or medications. Do not combine with alcohol. Discontinue use and immediately consult your health care professional if you experience any adverse reaction to this product. Do not exceed recommended serving. Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing. This product may contain ingredients banned by certain organizations. User assumes all risks, liabilities or consequences respecting testing. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Please store in a cool dry place.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Filed Under: Supplements

Black Friday Supplement Deals

November 23, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Now that Thanksgiving has passed, Cyber Weekend is upon us. Black Friday and Cyber Monday can offer large discounts on a variety of products. The folks at Bodybuilding.com are offering a few Black Friday deals today. Check it out and you could save big on some of your favorite supplements.

black Friday deals
The Bodybuilding.com Black Friday offer ends at midnight EST on November 24th. While supplies last.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements Tagged With: ,

Bodybuilding.com 2012 Supplement Awards Winners

October 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment

During the 2012 Olympia weekend, Bodybuilding.com presented the 2012 Supplement Awards to a select few. This annual contest recognizes the best supplements in the fitness and bodybuilding industry. The nominees were based on sales and customer votes. The 2012 awards brought in a record 2.4 millions votes. MusclePharm took home top honors as Brand, Pre-workout and Best Packaging of the Year awards. Optimum Nutrition and BSN were also big winners taking home multiple awards.

 

NEWS RELEASE:
Bodybuilding.com, the Internet’s most-visited bodybuilding and fitness site and largest online retailer of nutritional supplements, just announced the 8th annual 2012 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards winners live at Joe Weider’s Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards have set the standard for recognition of the best products and brands in the fitness and supplement industry.

The original 70 nominations were based on sales, and since customers’ opinions are what truly count, Bodybuilding.com let the general public vote from July 13 – August 31, 2012 to pick this year’s final winners. There were a record-breaking number of votes this year. Last year there were just over one million votes but this year we crushed that number with an impressing 2.4 million votes! The people have spoken loud and clear and Bodybuilding.com has listened.

With much anticipation, the results are finally here.

2012 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards: Winners List
• Brand of the Year: MusclePharm
• Supplement of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
• Breakout Brand (Most Improved) Of The Year: BEAST Sports Nutrition
• New Supplement of the Year: Driven Sports Craze
• New Brand of the Year: Quest Nutrition
• Muscle Building Supplement of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
• Pre-Workout Supplement of the Year: MusclePharm Assault
• Intra-Workout Supplement of the Year: Scivation Xtend
• Recovery Supplement of the Year: SciVation Xtend
• Protein Powder of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
• Protein Bar of the Year: BSN Syntha-6 Decadence Bar
• Energy Supplement of the Year: BSN Nitrix
• Energy Drink of the Year: Optimum Essential AmiN.O. Energy
• Fat Loss Supplement of the Year: Cellucor Super HD
• Weight Gainer of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass
• Creatine Supplement of the Year: ProMera Sports Con-Cret
• Glutamine Supplement of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Glutamine 1000 Caps
• BCAA Supplement of the Year: BSN AMINOx
• Multivitamin of the Year: Optimum Nutrition Opti-Men
• Joint Health Supplement of the Year: Universal Animal Flex
• RTD of the Year: Cytosport Muscle Milk RTD
• Tanning Product of the Year: Dream Tan Dream Tan
• Best Packaging of the Year: MusclePharm

See photos from the award presentation on bodybuilding.com.

 

 

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements Tagged With: , , , , ,

The Girls Supplement Guide

January 14, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Bodybuilding.com shares the 15 best supplements that can help you burn fat and get lean muscle. The list, compiled by Jim Stoppani, shares what the supplement is, what it does and how to take it.

Supplements can aid you in many areas when combined with a sound nutrition program and regular exercise. As Bodybuilding.com puts it, “Add these 15 critical elements to your diet, and you’ll supercharge your lean muscle gains, accelerate fat loss and improve your overall health.”

EXAMPLE:

FISH OIL
WHAT IT IS: Two essential omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

WHAT IT DOES: What doesn’t fish oil do? It reduces may help support overall health, and, a biggie, it also has been found to turn on genes that stimulate fat burning.

HOW TO TAKE IT: Take 2g of fish oil three times daily, with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Get the complete list here.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Should Energy Drinks Be Regulated?

October 27, 2010 by 6 Comments

ESPN’s E:60 produced a piece on Energy Drinks being marketed to young athletes. The energy drink industry is a huge, booming business (7 BILLION, yes with a “b” according to Beverage Digest). that is mainly targeted towards young men. Are energy drink companies to blame when kids consume too many? What about the parents responsibility or will kids do drink them anyway? It’s an interesting video worth watching.


Jack Owoc of VPC on E:60

ESPN interviewed Jack Owoc, CEO of VPX Sports Nutrition for the segment. VPX makes the popular energy drink, REDLINE, for the piece.  I agree with Jack when he shares, “If one is good five is better” when it comes to kids and energy drinks. The same could be said for many adults as well.

Jack goes on to say, “They should disallow energy drinks to be marketed to kids. Regulated also in the sense that you can’t sell to minors just like you can’t sell cigarettes. So let’s just lump energy drinks in with that and say you can’t sell energy drinks either to minors.” That’s an interesting comment and one I didn’t expect to hear from him. I’m not sure I agree with regulating energy drinks. In my opinion, it would only make kids want them more. You always want what you can’t have and kids would then turn to their older buddies to hook them up with energy drinks.

Where would the cut off age be… 18? 21? When is one deemed responsible enough to consume energy drinks?

I think the responsibility goes back to the makers of the energy drinks. They should be regulated from the amount of caffeine they put in each container. There have been several occasions where I’ve consumed an energy drink and felt cracked out. Did I read the label? No. More often than not there are more than one serving in each can/bottle. Is it the consumer’s responsibility to read the label and see the number of servings before drinking? Ya, sure but companies also know that most people won’t crack open a can and only drink 1/2 of it.

One look on bodybuilding.com’s Energy drink listing you can see a number of examples of this. Note the serving size and amount of servings per container. Some have 2 servings for a 2.5 ounce bottle!

The ESPN E:60 segment:

They are marketed as performance enhancers and used by young athletes before games and workouts, but just how safe are energy drinks? In a 7-month investigation, E:60 spoke to teenagers who have suffered everything from headaches to seizures and heart issues that require surgery.

What do you think? Sound off in the comments below.

Should there be age restrictions when buying Energy Drinks?
View Results

** Update - ESPN’s Tom Ferrey goes more in-depth with the story and gets more input from Jack Owoc.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements, Videos

Mum mum mum mah Lady Gaga Tour Rider Includes Protein Bars & Muscle Milk

October 13, 2010 by 3 Comments

It seems Lady Gaga and her crew have a healthy side to them or at least it appears that way according to some of the items listed on her tour rider. ABCnew.com has a story about the demands and requests artist make while on tour.

Some of the items listed on Lady Gaga’s Tour Rider:
• Organic ginger and lemongrass tea
• Two bottles of white wine, ideally Kendall-Jackson or Robert Mondavi
• A small plate of non-sweaty and non-smelly cheese
• Organic peanut butter
• Organic salsa
• Organic tortilla chips
• Splenda (not sugar)
• Vegetarian hot dogs
• Non-fat Greek yogurt
• Protein bars
• Muscle Milk
• Two cases of water (not Dasani — no explanation why)

- abcnews.com

What do you think… will we soon be seeing Gaga’s fans (known as her little monsters) drinking Monster Milk?


Images: connect.in.com & Musclemilk.com

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Bodybuilding.com Announces Official 2010 Supplement Awards Winners

October 4, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Congratulations to the 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Award winners. The nominations and awards are based on customer votes. Check out which brands took home top honors this year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bodybuilding.com Announces Official 2010 Supplement Awards Winners

Boise, ID – Bodybuilding.com, the Internet’s most-visited bodybuilding and fitness site and largest online retailer of nutritional supplements, announced the 6th Annual 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards winners live at Joe Weider’s Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada September 24, 2010. The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards are the industry standard for recognition of the best products and brands in the fitness and supplement industry.

“This was one of my favorite years for the Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards,” said Bodybuilding.com CEO Ryan DeLuca. “It was fun to see how many new products and companies ended up winning an award. There were so many close calls; we didn’t know who would take home the prize until the very end!”

All nominations were based on sales, and since customers’ opinions are what truly count, Bodybuilding.com lets the general public provide 100% of the final vote. With over 315,000 votes pouring in, the results are finally here!

The 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards winners are:
Brand of the Year – Optimum
Supplement of the Year – Optimum 100% Whey Protein (6th year in a row!)
Breakout Brand (most improved) of the Year – USPLabs
New Supplement of the Year – Optimum Platinum Hydrowhey
New Brand of the Year – Cellucor
Muscle Builder of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SuperPump250
Pre-Workout Supplement of the Year – USPlabs Jack3d
Intra-Workout Supplement of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SizeOn Maximum Performance
Recovery Supplement of the Year – Scivation Xtend (2nd year in a row!)
Protein Powder of the Year – Optimum 100% Whey Protein (6th year in a row!)
Protein Bar of the Year – Supreme Carb Conscious Bar (2nd year in a row!)
Energy Supplement of the Year – USPlabs Jack3d
Energy Drink of the Year – VPX RedLine RTD (2nd year in a row!)
Fat Loss Supplement of the Year – USPlabs OxyELITE Pro
Weight Gainer of the Year – BSN True Mass (4th year in a row!)
Nitric Oxide Supplement of the Year – BSN NO-Xplode (6th year in a row!)
Creatine Supplement of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SizeOn Maximum Performance
Glutamine Supplement of the Year – Optimum Glutamine 1000 Caps
Multivitamin of the Year – Universal Nutrition Animal Pak (6th year in a row!)
Joint Health Supplement of the Year – Universal Nutrition Animal Flex (5th year in a row!)
RTD of the Year – BSN Syntha-6 RTD
Tanning Product of the Year – Dream Tan’s Dream Tan (2nd year in a row!)
Packaging of the Year – BSN (2nd year in a row!)
Ad Campaign of the Year – Animal via Universal Nutrition

The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards provide an innovative way to help customers find truly exceptional products and brands, while helping to recognize the efforts of the many great companies that make up the industry.

For more information visit: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2010-supplement-award-winners.htm

Bodybuilding.com offers more than 12,000 health and fitness supplements & accessories to help people achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals, as well as over 25,000 pages of FREE bodybuilding & fitness information, including more than 12,000 articles (written by 525+ writers), video & audio segments, and new content added daily.

Filed Under: NEWS, Supplements

Enter to Win a Chance to Train with Jen Hendershott

August 16, 2010 by Leave a Comment

PGN Nutrition & Bodybuilding.com Present: The 2010 Phitness Retreat Competition.
pgn

PGN and Bodybuilding.com team up to offer you a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to train with 2x Ms. Fitness International and 2x Ms. Olympia Jen Hendershott!

The grand prize winner will receive an all-expense paid trip to Burlington, NC to take part in Jen’s world-renown Phitness Retreat including registration fee, airfare, and a 2-night hotel stay. Two runners-up will win:

• 1st Place: $1,000 worth of PGN supplements
• 2nd Place: $500 worth of PGN supplements

– Click here for more information and entry form.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Dennis Wolf Appearance at Supplement Giant

July 9, 2010 by 1 Comment

Team BSN athlete & IFBB Pro bodybuilder will be appearing tomorrow (July 10th) at the Supplement Giant in Lakewood, Colorado. Stop by and get a free autograph from 10am-5pm. The store will also be giving out free supplements, t-shirts and samples all day. Check out the latest from BSN, Dymatize, VPX, Muscle Fortress, Axis Labs, MAN Sports, iSatori, Epic Performance & More.

If you stop by the store look for the tallest guy in the room wearing a BSN shirt and tell him HARDBODY sent ya. He’ll have a special prize for you.

The store is located at:
7134 W Alaska Drive
Lakewood, CO 80226

Filed Under: Supplements

VPX Prevails Over Red Bull in France

June 30, 2010 by 1 Comment

Popular energy drink, Red Bull tried to be the ca-bosh on VPX’s energy drink, Redline from coming into France. Aside from the word “red” I have to side with VPX on this one.

WESTON, FLORIDA JUNE 25, 2010 – Dietary and nutritional supplement company Vital Pharmaceuticals, Inc., d/b/a VPX/Redline of Weston, Florida, announces today that it prevailed against Red Bull GmbH Societe De Droit, Austria (“Red Bull”) in a French Trademark Opposition Proceedings for Redline Trademark. Red Bull brought the Opposition Proceedings in France against the VPX/Redline trademark application on or about March 15, 2010 in the European Union Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (Trade Marks and Designs (“OHIM”) citing to dilution and likelihood of confusion.

While Red Bull has been successful with opposition proceedings in other countries, the French Trademark Office has rejected Red Bull’s contention that there was a risk of confusion between the Red Bull and Redline trademarks, stating that there was no likelihood of visual and/or intellectual signs of confusion in France. The news of this legal victory comes on the heel of future plans by VPX/Redline to offer its Redline in other geographical regions. The freedom to conduct business in France gives greater position to the Redline brand in the market.

Source: BevNET.com

Filed Under: Supplements

JulieAnn Kulla Signs with GENr8

June 15, 2010 by 2 Comments

Two years ago JulieAnn Kulla left Chicago with not only a class win but also the overall NPC JR. Nationals Figure Overall title. She went on to place second in her pro debut and ventured to the Figure Olympia shortly there after. After some time off she’s back and kicking things off with a bang by signing with supplement company GENr8.

julieannkulla
Photo courtesy of J.M. Manion.

JulieAnn’s management has released the following press release regarding her signing.

FMG PRESS RELEASE
June 15, 2010 – Top IFBB Pro Figure competitor JulieAnn Kulla is now a part of the GENr8 supplement company as she has signed an endorsement contract with them.

JulieAnn says, “I am honored and beyond blessed to be a part of Genr8! Anthony Almada and the team have been so supportive and we’re all ready for a great year ahead. I respect GENr8‘s approach to evidence-based nutrition products, one’s I rely on and use daily! Thank you All!”

JulieAnn’s contract represents the 7th major supplement company endorsement contract that FMG has secured for its athlete’s in 2010.

JulieAnn’s next competition will be the 2010 IFBB Europa Battle Of Champions Pro Figure.

To contact JulieAnn Kulla for appearances, interviews or photo shoots, please contact FMG via e-mail at fitnessdivasproductions@verizon.net or on Facebook.

Filed Under: Supplements

Consumer Reports Magazine Takes Aim at Protein Drinks

June 12, 2010 by 15 Comments

The supplement industry is big business. According to Consumer Reports magazine sports-nutrition sales are at $2.7 billion. That’s BILLION. The July issue of Consumer Reports Magazine investigates 15 different protein drinks and their findings are misleading. They claim, “Some protein drinks can even pose health risks, including exposure to potentially harmful heavy metals, if consumed frequently. All drinks in our tests had at least one sample containing one or more of the following contaminants: arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Those metals can have toxic effects on several organs in the body.”

You read that and you think holy crap I shouldn’t drink protein drinks. Well, not so fast. Cytosport, the maker of Muscle Milk, conducted their own third party tests and dispelled the magazine’s findings. Read their full report here.

One of the leading lawyers in the supplement industry, Rick Collins also comments about the report on his web site. Once you read these two articles you can see how results and stories can be skewed to fit the publisher’s agenda.

Optimum Nutrition responded to the findings as well. Check out their take on the story here.

Props to Cytosport & Optimum for meeting the report head on. I’d like to see other supplement companies step up and combat stories like this when they are published. Hiding and not addressing the issue only helps fuel the agenda of others against the sport-supplement industry.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Free Shipping on Domestic U.S. Orders

May 23, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Hurry! This promotion won’t last much longer. Bodybuilding.com is offering FREE shipping on Domestic U.S. Orders of $99 or more. This is your chance to replenish your supplements and save a bundle on shipping. Promotion ends on May 26, 2010.

freeshipping

Filed Under: Supplements

MET-Rx Supports Hardbody

April 30, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Welcome our newest hardbody supporter… MET-Rx! MET-Rx is one of the most established companies in the fitness industry and has a number of quality products. I attend countless NPC/IFBB events and while sitting in the press pit you don’t have the luxury of taking a break. Thankfully people like Teresa Hartle and Grace Grimes always hook me up with a shake and a few bars to help me get through the day. I take their vitamin pak, use their RTDs and their protein pancakes are AWESOME.

We’ll be doing some cool stuff with MET-Rx in coming weeks so check back to see what’s crack’n there. Follow MET-Rx on Twitter. twitter.com/official_metrx and visit their web sit at www.metrx.com.

10-1070-M7-WEB-190X140-2

Thanks MET-Rx!

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Supplement Review: Gaspari Nutrition MyoFusion

April 8, 2010 by 8 Comments

I’m on the go all the time and it’s a constant challenge to get meals in and healthy ones at that. While I try to get whole foods in for most of my meals I rely on shakes to keep my stomach from going ballistic. I’ve been told countless times, by nearly every supplement company that they have the best tasting product. Shocking, right? That’s to be expected from any good representative of a company but is it always the truth? Nearly every weekend (from March to November) I’m at a bodybuilding/fitness competition and I sample a number of products at these events. Many are good, some are pretty crappy but few are great.

When I was told that Gaspari Nutrition’s MyoFusion was one of the best tasting shakes, I thought here we go again. I recently tried the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor and was pleasantly surprised. When it comes to making shakes, I prefer to use a blender but that’s not always available. Some protein powders end up clumpy and don’t mix well when in a shaker bottle but that’s not the case here. The MyoFusion mixed well in a shaker bottle and the blender. My preferred method of use… 10oz of water, 2 scoops of protein, 12 ice cubes and blend for 2 minutes. It blends perfectly and more importantly tastes great. Another thing I noted is that if you let it sit for a few minutes you won’t see anything sink to the bottom. Many protein shakes will settle and when you get to the bottom of the cup you’ll wonder what the hell you’re looking at.

myofusion

Gaspari’s MyoFusion gets the Hardbody Seal of Approval.

myofacts


Note: I was not paid to endorse or review this product. If you’re looking for a honest review and have a product you think would get the Hardbody Seal of Approval, drop me a note. If your product sucks you might want to rethink contacting me. My goal is to let the thousands of daily readers of hardbody.com know what products are great, which are pretty good and which fail to hit the mark.

Filed Under: Supplements

Sonya Signs with ISS Research

March 17, 2010 by 1 Comment

Congratulations to IFBB Bikini Pro Sonya Vecchiarelli on joining the ISS Research team. Sonya achieved IFBB pro status in the bikini division at the 2009 NPC Jr. Nationals. You might recall seeing her on this site a few times over the years, if not click here to see past Sonya news.

isssonya
Sonya featured on ISS web site.
Photo By: Isaac Hinds / LIFTstudios.com

Sonya began working with ISS Research at the 2009 Mr. Olympia contest and has since shown she’s a fit for the company. A perfect example of doing a good job while working at an expo can turn into bigger things for all parties involved.

When I spoke with Andrea Wilson from ISS Research on why they signed Sonya she shared, “Sonya is a vibrant and fit woman whose fresh look and outgoing attitude exemplifies ISS Research and the OhYeah! Nutrition product line. We look forward to Sonya representing ISS and OhYeah! as she makes her IFBB bikini pro debut in 2010 and experiences continued success in the fitness industry.”

How’s the Colorado bikini pro feel about being part of the team? Sonya enthusiastically said, “ISS not only has effective, delicious and top of the line products, but their vision and commitment to creating a long term impact on the standards of sports nutrition is excellent as well. They truly care about their consumer’s needs and wants. Not to mention, they are the coolest crew!!! I am very honored, blessed and excited to be part of such an outstanding team and company!”

She will be representing the company at various trade shows and expos throughout the year.

Sonya’s tentative event schedule is:
• Bodybuilding.com Expo – May 8th  in Boise, ID
• NPC Jr. Nationals – June 18-19 in Chicago, IL
• Europa Super Show – August 13-14 in Dallas, TX
• Mr. Olympia – September 24-25 in Las Vegas, NV

About ISS Research
As much as it is in our power, ISS will bring to market the cleanest, purest, and most effective sports nutrition products. We utilize only the highest-quality raw materials from suppliers who meet our standards of integrity. Even though this raises our costs, we keep our products affordable, and hope that the rest of the industry will follow. As science advances so will our formulas. The company is committed to creating long-term impact on the standards of sports nutrition, and will continue to stand behind this customer commitment. We look forward to the day when all manufacturers will adopt the same standards we do, and no matter which products you purchase, no matter from whom, you will know that you are taking clean, effective, and safe supplements.

Visit http://www.issresearch.com for more information on the company and their complete product line.

Filed Under: Supplements

Spring Break It Down (and pump’n our fists) with MuscleMilk

March 12, 2010 by Leave a Comment

This is hilarious! The folks at Muscle Milk are doing it once again and this time it’s a rap with manatees and spring breakers. Their Sexy Pilgrim video went viral and gained a great deal of attention, will the Spring Break It Down do the same?

I love it.

Check out springbreakitdown.com to download a coupon and a MP3 of the song.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Optimum Nutrition Representing at the Arnold

March 4, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Bob Corbett has assembled quite the crew for the Optimum Nutrition booth at this year’s Arnold Classic. Check out who will be at their booth this weekend for the Arnold Expo.

Charles Glass
George Farah
Jeff Long
John Hansen
Jessica Paxson Putnam
Hazal Nelson
Alicia Harris (when not competing)
Tera Sheehan
Cristina Vujnich
Tiffany Upshaw
Mercedes Perez
Jen Turnbull
Sean Royer
Tim Rice
Tobias Young
Jason Powell
Jim Collins
Sean Allan
Daniel Stevens
Jessica Lawrence – IFBB Bikini Pro
Misty Hendricks – Model
Heidi Rhodes – Model
Jacqueline Voss – Model
Danielle Leake – Model
Nikki Macik – Model
Jaquelyn Roberts will be representing Optimum at the Bodybuilding.com booth since she won the bodyspace model search.

BC

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Supplements

Meriza DeGuzman Checks In

March 3, 2010 by 1 Comment

IFBB Figure Pro Meriza DeGuzman is having a busy but productive start to her new year. She tells me she’ll be co-emceeing the NPC San Diego Championships on March 20th and has been training a number of amateur NPC competitors recently. She’ll be plenty busy planning her wedding in the coming months as well. Meriza and boyfriend Pete will exchange wedding vows on December 11, 2010 in San Diego. Those of you attending the Arnold can stop by the MANSPORTS booth and meet Meriza.The company has re-signed Meriza for another year of sponsorship and will be launching a new product for women called “Figure Fuel”.

figurefuel

Apparently using “strong” and “sexy” in women’s ads is a growing trend in the supplement biz.  This ad’s headline reads, “STRONG IS SEXY” while the MusclePharm ad recently launched reads, “Strong is the new Sexy”.  I’ll be curious to see how Figure Fuel does on the market as you wouldn’t expect a company named “MAN Sports” to put out a female product.

Filed Under: Ad Watch, Supplements

Arnold Supplement Specials

March 2, 2010 by Leave a Comment

Check out these killer deals on Bodybuilding.com. Loads of Arnold specials on a variety of supplements.

arnolddeal

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Supplements

Press Release: BodyWell Nutrition Announces TC Essentials

March 2, 2010 by 1 Comment

Press Release
BodyWell Nutrition is happy to announce the addition of its new product line “TC Essentials.”  This new line was designed for today’s active woman, and focused on  life style, health and wellness.

“We looked hard to determine what products the active woman really wants and needs today” claimed Kristal Richardson, fitness professional  and model now head of the new line, “I would like to thank the members of Team TightCurves for their help in filling out our endless surveys and for answering all our calls.  Their contribution proved to be a key factor in determining which products to launch, and even in some of the formulations.”

The BodyWell management team met with some of the leading product designers in the industry to “nail” the formulas.   “We are confident that our new products will soon be seen in the market as leaders in quality and value” expressed Tom Richardson, BodyWell’s CEO.

The first phase of the launch will include products to address:
•    Hair skin  and nails health and beauty
•    Water and bloat management
•    Sleep issues
•    Weight management
•    Digestion enzymes and probiotics

These products will be on the shelves by the end of March 2010.

The details of phase II have include anti-aging, cleansing, vitamin and nutrient packs and many other exciting life style, health and wellness products. BodyWell is also considering a future consolidation of all its women lines including those currently under “TightCurves” under the “TC Essentials” name.

Stay tuned!  And look for the new products!

Filed Under: Supplements

Press Release: Nutrabolics Signs IFBB Figure Pro Natalie Waples

March 1, 2010 by 2 Comments

PRESS RELEASE:

Nutrabolics® is proud to announce the newest member of Team Nutrabolics®; IFBB Figure Pro, Natalie Waples.

natalienutra

Natalie received her IFBB Pro card at the 2008 IFBB North American Figure Championships, where she won her Height Class and was one of two Overall IFBB Pro Card Winners. Natalie is Canada’s most active IFBB Figure pro, and has her sights set on qualifying for this year’s Figure Olympia and the 2011 Arnold Figure International, where she would represent Canada and Team Nutrabolics® on the world stage.

“I am very excited to be making my debut as an official member of the Nutrabolics’ team at the upcoming Arnold Sports Festival,” says Waples. “As an IFBB Figure Professional who relies on cutting edge supplementation for performance, Nutrabolics is the perfect choice for complementing my nutritional and training requirements. I look forward to promoting the Nutrabolics product line and highlighting the great supplements available for fitness-minded women at any level.”

Natalie’s favorite Nutrabolics® supplements include Vitabolic, HemoDrene for Her, Isobolic Cinnamon Oatmeal, and Hemorush.

“Natalie Waples is one of the most recognized fitness icons in Canada and we are very excited to add her to the Team Nutrabolics roster,” said Rodney Dupont, CEO of Nutrabolics®. “Natalie has a great personality and is hard working, dedicated, and driven to succeed — she embodies everything that we believe in at Nutrabolics and we look forward to supporting her as she climbs up the IFBB ranks.”

Natalie will be making appearances across the globe to promote the Nutrabolics® brand of leading-edge supplements. The first stop is the 2010 Arnold Classic Fitness Expo in Columbus, Ohio.

Nutrabolics® Inc., based in British Columbia, Canada, is a leading worldwide manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of premium sports nutrition products.

Filed Under: Supplements

Get an Energy Boost

March 1, 2010 by Leave a Comment

This weekend will be non-stop action in Columbus and admittedly I’ll be jacked up on energy drinks. There are a variety of energy drinks available today and Bodybuilding.com is running a special on many of them. LOVE IT! Just in time for the Arnold madness!

recharge

Filed Under: Supplements

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