The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide 245
Protein-Carbohydrate Supplements
Go into a retail or specialty store that caters to athletes and you may become
overwhelmed by the number of different products available. One of the most highly visible
and advertised group of products are the powdered protein and carbohydrate beverages.
“Weight gaining”, “anabolic”, “muscle building” -- these are just a few of the various
claims made by manufacturers. They do share one thing in common however: they are sold
as supplements to your diet. These products are intended to fortify your diet to meet the
nutrient demands of your body. In general, there are three basic reasons why people take
supplements:
" Compensate for less than adequate diets or life-styles." Meet unusual nutrient demands induced by heavy exercise." Produce direct positive effects on performanceYour profession and life-style impose unique physical demands that require
stamina, power, and strength. Consequently, your caloric (energy) expenditure is greater
than the average person.
Fat Burners/Lean Body Mass IncreasersCarnitine Little or no reported benefitChromium Some benefit reportedl-Oryzanol/Ferulic Acid Little or no benefit reportedTestosterone EnhancersGlandulars Not recommendedHot Stuff Possible adverse effectsSmilax Little or no reported benefitGrowth Hormone ReleasersArginine Some benefit reportedBranch Chain Amino Acids Some benefit reportedLysine Some benefit reportedAgent Comment