Even Peter Bowen needs a spot.
The New Orleans-based fitness enthusiast knows that diet and exercise alone aren’t enough. Just like his other ventures as an investor and entrepreneur, Peter Bowen knows his workouts demand a collaborative, comprehensive approach.
Peter Bowen takes lifting weights seriously, but he devotes equal energy and effort to fueling himself properly. However, it can be difficult getting all the nutrients he needs. Supplements help fill in those gaps.
While it’s important to consult with a physician or registered dietitian beforehand, Peter Bowen uses his experience to share several supplements that can help regardless of your fitness goals.
Muscle Growth
Creatine – This molecule occurs naturally in the body. However, when taken as a supplement, creatine boosts performance in a couple of ways. First, creatine ignites the muscle’s energy output. This allows for more reps and longer lift sessions. Yet it also draws water into the cells. When combined with the insulin-like qualities that are triggered, creatine increases long-term muscle growth. To maximize these gains, Peter Bowen encourages you to take creatine before and after a workout.
Whey – It’s actually quite simple. Exercise breaks down muscles. Protein repairs these muscles so they can grow. While there are several protein supplements on the market, Peter Bowen prefers whey over casein or soy. Whey protein is high in the amino acids necessary for growth and is absorbed quickly by the body.
Beta-Alanine – Although it’s not traditionally thought of as a muscle enhancer, beta-alanine goes to work. The amino acid reduces fatigue and increases power output. During intense workouts, throw more weight around. This heightened output will inevitably produce more gains.
Weight Loss
Glucomannan – Few supplements offer greater scientifically-backed benefits. Glucomannan is a fiber that becomes gel-like after absorbing water. The result is a feeling of “fullness” that causes users to eat less. To tap into the effects, Peter Bowen recommends taking the supplement before meals and with plenty of water.
Caffeine – The ideal weight loss solution may be already in your cup. Caffeine is a common metabolism booster. Since it’s so widely available, Peter Bowen cautions against taking caffeine pills. The best supplementation is naturally through coffee, tea, or dark chocolate.
Green Tea Extract – Green tea is especially popular. It contains an antioxidant that blocks fat absorption while also melting away extra pounds. That’s why this extract is a frequent ingredient in many weight-loss supplements.
Recovery
CBD – Once considered taboo, cannabidiol is finally getting props for its health benefits. In fact, it’s taking center stage. Ahead of the most recent Olympics in Tokyo, the World Anti-Doping Agency officially removed the compound from its banned substance list. There have been countless scientific studies touting the effects of CBD when used specifically for exercise. Most notably, it’s been proven to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Glutamine – As an amino acid, glutamine checks a lot of boxes. It promotes muscle growth through protein synthesis and weight loss by improving gut health. However, as Peter Bowen points out, it offers the best support for muscle recovery. Glutamine repairs muscle fibers and assists in glycogen repletion.