Bioenergetics and the Athlete

Bioenergetics
Bioenergetics is the subject of a field of biochemistry that concerns energy flow through living systems. This is an active area of biological research that includes the study of thousands of different cellular processes such as cellular respiration and the many other metabolic processes that can lead to production and utilization of energy in forms such as ATP molecules.

The Athlete
Did you know that there is a class of nutrients that you (the Athlete) can consume that will dramatically increase your energy levels and mental clarity? These same substances will make your training feel easier and help you to feel totally energized on race day. According to Stephen Cherniske M.S. "the experience of fatigue in the abscence of disease or strenuous work is NOT NORMAL and you don't have to learn to live with it"!

These substances are all natural and in fact are essential for the body to produce optimum amounts of energy. Unfortunately for many people these nutrients are in short supply in their diet. As a result it is extremely "common" for people to complain about the following...

• Fatigue
• Suffer from an inability to tolerate much exercise
• Experience extensive mood swings
• Have suprisingly low metabolisms

For those of you wanting to lose body fat does it make sense that lacking these bioenergetic nutrients would make fat loss an extremely challenging thing?

I have personally incorporated all of these nutrients into my daily supplement program and those of you that train with me know that I rarely suffer from a lack of energy or enthusiasm. These nutrients make a world of difference for me and they can help you as well!

The Key Bioenergetic Nutrients for Optimum Energy Production

1. Alpha Ketoglutaric Acid (AKG)
2. Vitamin B6
3. Coenzyme Q10
4. Chromium
5. Potassium Aspartate
6. Magnesium Aspartate

Bioenergetic nutrients are pretty well processed out of our food sources. Because of this, its almost impossible to get the quantities you need from natural food sources - even in a healthy diet! Yes, even the "clean eaters" need this help! The simplest and most straightforward way to add these nutrients to your diet is to supplement them. I have found them at the local health food stores and vitamin stores without trouble.

Dosing and more detailed information...
I HIGHLY recommend that you pick up Stephen Cherniske's book "The DHEA Breakthrough"
ISBN 0-345-42646-0 The book goes into the kind of detail you need to optimize all aspects of your health, including Cellular Regeneration, Connective Tissue Health, and Fat Loss. Bioenergetics are covered in a high level of detail as well.

The following is an excerpt from his book concerning the dosing range of the bioenergetics listed above:
 
Alpha Ketoglutaric Acid (AKG)  200-400mg
Vitamin B6  15-20mg
Coenzyme Q10  30-40mg
Chromium  200-300 mgc
Potassium Aspartate  200-400mg
Magnesium Aspartate  200-400mg

Side note:
Don't forget that a healthy supplement program goes way beyond Bioenergetics. In addition you need to consider taking the following...

Multivitamin
Broad spectrum and highly bio-available to fill gaps in daily nutrition

Bone and Connective Tissue Support - especially Athletes

Antioxidants

DHEA

Adaptogens
Substances that buffer the stress response, making the body more resilient to stress, tension, physical strain.



Get the book and get started with Bioenergetics!
Steve