Supplements Cyclists Should Consider

To enjoy the benefits of cycling, it's a good idea to follow a balanced diet and take supplements that can help cyclists to meet their nutritional needs.
Supplements Cyclists Should Consider

Last update: 04 November, 2019

Cycling is a sport that requires a lot of endurance. As such, there are many supplements cyclists should consider. Indeed, it’s become one of the most popular options when it comes to burning fat and staying healthy. Learn about the supplements cyclists should consider to maximize their results.

Indeed, cyclists need a lot of protein whether they practice on a daily or professional basis. Still, supplements can provide huge benefits to your overall health.

For example, cycling fosters muscle development, especially in your back, glutes, and thighs. It also strengthens upper body muscles, such as biceps and triceps. What’s more, it targets your entire back and abdominal area. Finally, it burns calories and bolsters your respiratory and cardiovascular system.

Supplements cyclists should look into

Nutritional needs

Frequent bike riders need a good supply of energy. In addition, even spinning session fans should follow a specific diet according to their physical effort.

Foods must be rich in protein so that, once your body metabolizes it, it can extract and absorb many essential amino acids. Also, make sure you include a balanced amount of carbohydrates, which are your body’s main fuel source.

Important foods for cyclists

For breakfast, make sure you include foods such as eggs and yogurt, as well as a cup of coffee with lactose-free milk. For lunch, athletes should eat meat (experts often recommend chicken dishes). And of course, the best food to include as a side dish for meat is vegetables.

Woman eating yogurt

For dinner, the best food that you can eat is fish without using too much oil. In other words, try to eat it boiled, steamed, grilled, etc. Good foods to eat with fish are vegetables, rice, and so on.

Snacks are crucial, especially before and after training or competitions. A little over an hour before a session, a good option is to eat an egg with a slice of whole-wheat bread. You can also drink a cup of coffee with lactose-free milk.

After cycling, it’s a good idea to choose foods with that will boost your energy quickly. For example, a small can of tuna helps you to recover.

Supplements cyclists should look into

Meeting all your essential food requirements for cycling isn’t always as simple as it seems. As we mentioned, it’s crucial for helping your body to recover and repair its muscular tissues.

To this end, it’s important to use supplements that go well with your diet. Indeed, they can make the difference between victory and defeat in competitions. In other words, they can help determine whether you cross the finish line or stop halfway.

Branched-chain amino acids

Branched-chain amino acids are often referred to by their initials BCAA. These supplements provide leucine, isoleucine, and valine. The three active ingredients make up a third of your muscle tissue. As such, it’s important to keep them at optimal levels, and even more so when practicing something as challenging as cycling.

Amino acids promote muscle regeneration. What this translates to is a reduction in the duration and intensity of post-training muscle soreness. What’s more, your muscles will have greater endurance and will be less likely to experience fatigue.

Caffeine

While a cup of coffee can be a source of energy, caffeine’s effect is maximized if you turn to its concentrated products.

Woman drinking coffee

The benefits of caffeine include an increased calcium absorptive capacity by muscle tissues, which favors muscle contractions. It also increases concentration levels during physical exertion, which in turn brings greater endurance.

Still, not everyone is a fan of caffeine. Some claim it may lead to muscle cramps and dehydration. However, studies have not been able to back these claims one hundred percent.

Soy protein isolate

Most essential amino acid sources for the human body are extracted from proteins of animal origin. This is a big limitation for vegans and vegetarians.

As a result, manufacturers have developed products such as soy protein isolate. They’re supplements that contribute to maintaining and increasing muscle mass, with all their nutrients coming from plants.

So, what do you think about these supplements cyclists should look into? Which one are you going to try?


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.