L-Carnitine
Not banned. Carnitine, touted as increasing fat metabolism, can be
synthesized naturally in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Minor evidence suggests an ergogenic effect, but most studies show no effect. Some forms of carnitine are associated with muscle weakness.
Read more about L-carnitine in the free
supplement to this book
available at: http://roadbikerider.com/nutritionforsportssupplement.htm
.
Not recommended.
Chromium
Not banned. The role of chromium in protein synthesis is the basis for claims
of its anabolic benefits. Positiv
e studies are of low quality, and
current studies do not show a benefit. The long-term safety of the picolinate version is uncertain—side effects may include cancer and anemia.
Read more about the ergogenic and ergolytic effects of minerals
on page
126
.
Not recommended.
Chrysin
Banned by some sports organizations including the NCAA. Found in the herb
Passiflora incarnata
, the flavone chrysin is an
aromatase inhibitor. Body-builders use it in the belief that it prevents the aromatization (degradation) of testosterone, therefore helping to maintain or increase testosterone levels.
Chrysin supplements have been found to be contaminated with
anabolic steroids.
Limited studies do not find an ergogenic benefit.
Avoid.
Citrulline Malate
Not banned. See discussion under protein, at
hletic considerations, on page
63
.
Not recommended.
Clenbuterol
Banned. Prescription for veterinary use only. This asthma-like drug used in animals is thought to have
anabolic effects. It is a relativ
ely commonly-used banned substance
used to increase lean body mass.
A study in horses showed that
chronic use may worsen aerobic performance and recovery.
Avoid.
Codeine
May be banned. Some prescription. A narcotic. Almost all narcotics worsen aerobic athletic performance
because they depress the central nervous system. Often sedating, they decreased focus. A loss of skills, among other side effects, may create safety issues.
Avoid.
Cordyceps Sinensis
Not banned. Limited studies. In one study, this herb did not improve
endurance performance in competitive male cyclists.
Not recommended.
Nutrition for Sports, Essentials of 115
