Risk of Body Building Supplements
- Most bodybuilding supplements use whey and wheat in their products. Whey is an amino acid found in milk. Both whey and wheat are high in gluten, a protein with a high glycemic index. Taking too many supplements, as bodybuilders tend to do, can tax the digestive tract. Over time, this can erode the natural bacteria in the digestive tract and colon and spur a condition known as candidiasis. This is an overproduction of candida albicans, which is a yeast-like fungus. Candidiasis can cause a number of problems, such as migraines, gastritis, diarrhea and even autoimmune diseases (i.e., Crohn's disease, multiple chemical sensitivities).
Candidiasis is also associated with leaky gut syndrome, a condition where the yeast actually perforates the lining of the small intestines. This can cause undigested food, toxins and foreign bacteria to enter the bloodstream and overtax the liver. - Bodybuilders who have allergies may not realize they have certain food allergies until they start taking bodybuilding supplements. Some bodybuilders may be allergic to whey or wheat. Symptoms from food allergies can include gastritis, dizziness, headaches and other flu-like symptoms. These symptoms usually disappear once the bodybuilder stops taking the supplement. But the wheat allergy may cause them to have similar symptoms when they eat bread, pizza, pasta and other products that contain wheat.
- Due to the competitive nature of bodybuilding supplements, companies often try to outdo one another with the latest "great" supplement. Some products contain traces of anabolic steroids, which can cause heart problems. And since they currently do not need FDA approval, companies have no specific restrictions. However, legislation is in the works and many professional sports teams have banned certain supplements.
- Young bodybuilders are often unaware that they can eventually get calcium deposits from taking too many supplements. Calcium deposits often take many years to form, but they can painfully affect bones, muscles and even internal organs. Women have been know to get them in their breast.
- Bodybuilders who take supplements can get acid reflux. Most people take antacids to relieve this condition. But acid reflux is caused by diets that are too acidic. Bodybuilding supplements are highly acidic because many contain amino acids. High acidity in the body can lead to many health problems. One must balance acid food intake with alkaline foods, such as vegetables, fruits and sweet potatoes.