Dietary supplementation is a critical part of bodybuilding. If you take bodybuilding seriously you will probably have a whole range of supplements sitting on your shelf. You probably choose these supplements by word of mouth or internet research. And did you read the small print on the bottle about the supplement side effects? No? Most of us think that supplements do not have side effects because they are made from natural ingredients. How can anything natural have side effects, right? Wrong.

Supplement Side Effects

Dietary supplements are generally safe; however, it would be reckless to consider them as completely safe. There is always the possibility that a person may be allergic to one or many of the supplement’s ingredients.

Fish oil is an ingredient found in many supplements that can be cause an allergic reaction. Fish oil side effects include nausea, diarrhea, respiratory problems, and skin irritation.

There are people who take more than the recommended amounts of the supplement. The more is better mentality! For example, people who drink protein shakes and do not follow the manufacturer’s instructions are at risk for protein side effects. Too much protein can lead to unhealthy bones, kidneys, and liver.

Another thing bodybuilders should be wary of is multivitamin side effects. An overdose of vitamins A, D, E, and K can be fatal. Too much of certain minerals can lead to increased urination, uneven heart rate, stomach bleeding, and muscle weakness.

Bodybuilders should also be careful of nitric oxide side effects. Lately, nitric oxide supplements have become popular. It is believed that nitric oxide increases the blood flow to the muscles. However the substance can cause erratic heartbeat, mouth dryness, and skin irritation. Too much nitric oxide can lead to more dangerous side effects such as breathing problems and possibly asthma.

The Truth about Creatine Side Effects

Creatine is an acid naturally produced in the kidney and liver that helps supply energy to the muscles. As early as the 1920s, studies have shown that creatine contributed to muscle metabolism; as a result, it can improve athletic performance.

Recently, creatine has become the topic of debate for medical experts. There are some who consider creatine as a form of a steroid; and therefore, it should be best avoided. In spite of this, there has been no clinical record of a serious side effect caused by creatine.

Still, bodybuilders should overdo the use of creatine supplements. Common creatine side effects include muscle cramping, muscle fatigue, and gaining water weight. It is also best for those with kidney conditions to avoid supplements containing creatine.

Avoiding Supplement Side Effects

Bodybuilding beginners need to realize that what works for others may not work for you. With this, a person who has decided to use a bodybuilding supplement should be sensitive to what his body is telling him. Supplement side effects can be vague and do not always happen straight away.

Another point worth stressing is the importance of following the manufacturer’s instructions. Read carefully both the instructions and warnings. Never take more than what is recommended.

Last of all, check with your doctor. You need to make sure that the supplement is safe to take with medication you are taking or your current health condition.

What to Do If You Have Supplement Side Effects

Never underestimate the supplement side effects. Although most of the side effects mentioned cannot be considered life-threatening, it would be dangerous to disregard these effects by continuing to use the dietary supplement. When experiencing any supplement side effects, stop using the product and seek medical advice.

Review the articles on supplementreport.net for more specific information on the side effects of each supplement.