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10 Best Supplements for Cycling

best supplements for cycling

Cycling Enthusiasts should read this guide on the best supplements for cycling!

Nearly every active individual who begins their journey with amateur or professional sports has used supplements. These supplements ensure that people are provided with complete nutrition and sufficient energy to improve their gaming performance as they like.

Cycling is a sport with muscle strength, mobility of the joints, and endurance. Cyclists use nutritional supplements to improve these conditions to maintain fitness and overall health.

Many supplement companies offer an incredibly rich range of cycling supplements that expand every year. Additionally, they are produced with advanced nutrient flavors to meet required deficiencies.

Read: 5 Best Supplements for Hep C: Complete Guide

Also, supplements are so easily available and widely known due to the potential of fast results. These can not only enhance our athletic capabilities but can also contribute to general health.

To know the best supplements for cycling, read the detailed article below.

Best Supplements for Cycling:

The physiology of a cyclist is exceptional, as they must work longer and maintain high power. A six-hour bike ride can easily drain all essential nutrients. So a question arises at this point: what is the effective way to build stamina?

The easiest way to do this is by using supplements. Therefore, choosing a supplement is a great challenge, as buying supplements is not as easy as it sounds. There is always a problem with selecting the best supplements based on needs.

To help you select the best cycling supplements, we have listed down the ten best cycling supplements. 

Here are the best cycling supplements 2021;

1.     Life Extension Vitamins D and K with Sea-Iodine

best supplements for cycling, Life Extension Vitamins D and K with Sea Iodine Supplement

The Life Extension brand is the best cycling supplement brand. Life Extension Vitamins is a natural supplement that cyclists use for energy and fitness maintenance.

Research shows that a large proportion of the UK population is deficient in vitamin D. While cycling is a low-impact sport, cyclists need flexible joints to turn the wheels. Hence for cyclists, vitamin D is a desirable supplement.

Vitamin D, iron and vitamin K are the main ingredients in this dietary supplement. Also, all of these are important in maintaining a person’s health.

Vitamin D is primarily intended to help control the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. It is necessary to keep the bones and muscles in good condition. Moreover, low vitamin D levels can lead to weakened muscles, brittle bones, and a stressed immune system.

Vitamin K is the other main nutrient in the supplement. It assists in maintaining the level of calcium in the body. It also aids in regulating everything from metabolic function to bone strength.

Iodine is a third key component. The production of thyroid hormones is associated with this element.

Consequently, this supplement aids in reducing the depression and anxiety of the athletes. It also helps provide energy that cyclists need to pedal even during hard training.

Dosage

The recommended dose is one capsule per day with food, or as a medical practitioner recommends.

Pros

  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Promotes bone health

Cons

  • Too much consumption may lead to thyroid disorder

2.     Motivation Herbal Caffeine Pills

best supplements for cycling, Motivation herbal caffeine & energy supplement

Users want to ensure that they choose the healthiest option for the best supplements for cycling. And the Motivation Herbal Caffeine supplement is the best choice!

This supplement comprises all-natural ingredients and is considered one of the safest and healthiest options.

Caffeine, particularly among cyclists, is the world’s most commonly used stimulant drug. It enhances muscle calcium content, which builds muscle strength. Also, the concentration of caffeine is as low as 200 mg in this dietary supplement.

It also contains a 100% RDA dose of the B-Vitamin Complex to help metabolism and preserve energy. Moreover, these high-quality capsules also stimulate the body and improve cycling efficiency on the go.

Better yet, cyclists get just the right amount of complex B vitamins, which not only increases your metabolism but also increases energy.

Dosage

The recommended dosage includes two capsules a day with food and water.

Pros

  • GMP certified
  • Easy to swallow
  • Good taste
  • Vegan
  • Healthy ingredients

Cons

  • Does not offer so much energy

3.     Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron Supplement

best supplements for cycling

 For those looking for the best recovery supplement for cyclists and cautious about using an organic diet, then they may find this supplement the right product. 

Vitamin Code Raw Iron offers many health advantages, from increasing heart health and physical fitness to promoting iron absorption and better metabolism, which many supplements usually do not have.

The organic composition of this product is fruit and vegetables with mixes of natural food cofactors.

A 500 mcg vitamin B12, 22 mg of iron, 25 mg of vitamin C, and 400 mcg of Folate are included in this supplement.

Furthermore, it is gluten-free and vegan. Also, not to mention that it has no dairy products for binding and filling.

Thus, it is the best product for those who get stomach problems from consuming iron. Garden of life makes it far easier for a cyclist to digest and use iron without adverse reactions because entire food approaches produce it.

For the competition, the retrieval powder is tested to ensure that it is free from prohibited substances is extremely appreciated.

In general, it is the best recovery supplement for cyclists.

Dosage

According to the official website, the recommended dosage is to take one capsule daily with or without food for adults.

Pros

  • Rich in flavor
  • Easy to adjust
  • Non-constipating
  • Gluten-free
  • No binders
  • Non-GMO

Cons

  • Not for children
  • Overdose may cause fatal poisoning

4.     Organic Beet Root Powder

best supplements for cycling

Many studies show positive impacts of beetroot and its juice in developing stamina for running, swimming, and cycling.

Beetroot and beet juice may receive support from nitrates for durability. And the best alternative solutions of nitrates in nature are beets and beet juice.

This supplement boosts muscle strength by changing certain nitrates to nitric oxide for blood vessel growth. The spread of the vessels stimulates the blood flow and the supply of oxygen and muscle nutrients, thus enhancing endurance.

 The beetroot powder also aids in the removal of muscle waste products efficiently. Moreover, beet juice consumption tends to raise the blood nitrite intensity, leading to increased athletic performance.

In addition, organic beetroot powder conserves all essential nutrients, fiber, zinc, potassium, vitamin C, copper, manganese, and iron.

It is without question the best nitric oxides supplement for cyclists because it’s organic, vegan, and keto-friendly. In addition, this supplement is also easy to digest.

Dosage

The recommended dosage is one scoop directly to 6-8 oz of cold water or any favorite drink. Mix, shake, and have a drink.

Pros

  • High quality
  • Gut-friendly
  • No stimulants
  • Non-GMO
  • No artificial processing
  • Easy to blend

Cons

  • Little bit pricey

5.     Optimum Nutrition L-Glutamine Muscle Recovery Capsules

best supplements for cycling

The human body contains a natural amino acid, glutamine. It belongs to one of the amino acids that is the most plentiful in the human body.

Low body L-glutamine levels may cause swelling, a breakdown of muscles, and an impairment of the immune system. Although glutamine can be synthesized naturally in the body, its level depletes in the athlete’s body due to intense workouts. A low level of it leads them to take glutamine as a supplement.

However, glutamine can become depleted during long-distance training sessions, which could be an essential supplement.

L-glutamine is involved in supporting recovery from endurance exercises, somewhat more critically to cyclists. Also, it can help athletes speed up muscle repair and increase energy levels. In addition, this amino acid can also improve sports performance.

By consuming two capsules, users get 1,000 mg of L-glutamine with Optimum Nutrition L-Glutamine. It is a good dose to maintain the growth and recovery of the muscles.

Sad to say, this supplement may have some unwanted side effects. Some users have reported intensive pain and diarrhea of the stomach.

Dosage

The advised dosage is 1-2 capsules a day to achieve optimum results. Users can take it as a pre-workout supplement or before going to bed.

Pros

  • Boost athletic performance
  • Support muscle recovery efforts
  • Non-GMO

Cons

  • May cause stomach pain
  • Nausea

6.     Post JYM Active Matrix 

best supplements for cycling

The Post JYM Active Matrix is rated the best supplement for mountain biking. It has several actively beneficial ingredients, such as glutamine, amino acids from the branch chains, creatine, and beta-alanine.

It seems that BCAA supplements directly affect the endurance of athletes like cyclists. Besides this, BCAA tends to shine through its effects on muscle development, strength training, and bodybuilding.

Some people generally don’t like capsules, so that a powder supplement can be diluted into water, a protein shake, or a drink.

 We applaud that science supports so many of the ingredients in this supplement. In addition, this product is offered in many different flavors, including lemonade, fruit cocktail, and mandarin orange.

But besides having some high potential ingredients, many customers have complained about the side effects, including general itchiness and anxiety.

It could be that consumers are more likely to have a negative response to one of the different ingredients that go into the supplement.

Dosage

The recommended dosage is to mix one scoop of Post JYM Active Ingredients Matrix into 16-32 oz. water, in a preference of 30 minutes after workout.

Pros

  • Easy to mix
  • Available in many flavors
  • Improves stamina
  • Simple to make

Cons

  • May cause itching

7.     XTEND SPORT BCAA Powder

best supplements for cycling

XTEND Sport BCAA powder is stuffed with amino acids and electrolytes. These components guarantee the muscle recovery and water retention necessary for consumers after a hectic ride.

Overall the ingredients present in this supplement are basic and simple. It includes healthy ingredients such as citric acid, malic acid, magnesium, and potassium.

L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine, all branched-chain amino acids, and BCAAs are the other essential components. It helps to stabilize the muscle between workouts.

The electrolyte blend that is designed to ensure rehydration as quickly as possible is also a strong component. If the body is properly hydrated, recovery and repair become much more efficient.

Users don’t have to worry about jitters as it contains no caffeine and stimulants. Moreover, there is no sugar, so there is no issue that blood sugar will spike too much after a workout. 

However, some folks complain that it’s hard to mix this powder in a liquid.

Dosage

The recommended dosage is to add one level spoon in 10-14 oz. of water. After adding in water, mix it thoroughly.

Pros

  • Contains plenty of amino acids
  • Good for hydrating
  • Delicious flavor
  • NSF certified
  • No sugar or caffeine

Cons

  • Does not mix well enough

8.     Rapid Rehydr8 Maximum Performance

best supplements for cycling

Rapid Rehydr8 is produced as a dietary supplement by Elite Sportz Equipment. Its main goal is to fill the loss of electrolytes and to confront heavy cramps.

Cycling is a sport that exudes your electrolytes rapidly. Each drop of sweat from the body is the salt that you lose. If the lost electrolytes are not refilled, the performance will gradually begin to decrease.

To continue the workout or training, the best way to counter the electrolyte depletion is rehydration and supplement consumption such as Rapid Rehydr8.

Read: 10 Best Supplements for Leaky Gut in 2021 & Beyond

Rapid Rehydr8 is also a supplement for endurance and is ideal for lengthy training. It consists of a balanced mixture of electrolytes that make recovery quicker.

Rapid Rehydr8 includes magnesium, potassium, and calcium to rehydrate all the elements lost by sweating. It also helps in the contraction of the muscle and reduces leg cramps during a workout.

Therefore, its advantages demonstrate that it is the best supplement for cycling.

Dosage

The recommended dosage is 1-3 capsules before a hard workout and one hour after the workout.

Pros

  • Improves endurance and stamina
  • Easy to swallow
  • Gluten-free
  • Helps prevent muscular cramps
  • Keto-friendly

Cons

  • May cause vomiting

9.     ProMera Sports CON-CRET

best supplements for cycling

Creatine is a supplement that runners and triathletes frequently use. It is a highly effective supplement when it comes to strength, power, and speed.

More than 100 scientific studies on the beneficial effects of creatine are published, all of which believe that creatine helps boost muscle strength. However, here comes the question of how creatine improves cyclist’s endurance?

In addition, creatine provides bodybuilders, riders, and cyclists with additional benefits, improving their performances at the next level. Also, it helps to lower the recovery period and the power output.

The only downside of the creatine supplement is a slight increase in body weight.

Dosage

Consumers should take it 30 to 45 minutes before a workout with approximately 6 oz. of water or juice.

Pros

  • Easy to digest
  • Increase strength
  • Improve endurance
  • Decrease mental fatigue

Cons

  • Weight gain
  • Bloating and muscle cramp

10. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

best supplements for cycling

Whey protein is considered one of the athletes’ most popular protein sources. It is the source of protein for training, meal substitution, or a drink after training.

During the procedure of cheese making, whey is produced and regarded as one of the richest sources of BCAAs. It includes three amino acids: valine, leucine, and isoleucine. These three are extremely crucial for muscle development and provide energy during exercise.

This food supplement enhances immune function, improves muscle recovery, and offers antioxidant advantages. 

Cyclists love to have a heavy protein intake because it can be the main factor for a race to win.

The supplement is also loaded with BCAAs that can strengthen muscle growth and flexibility radically. Moreover, there are more than 20 different flavors available to choose from.

Overall, it is the best recovery drink for cyclists.

Dosage

The recommended dosage is to take one scoop of whey protein powder with 6 to 8oz water.

Pros

  • Provide energy
  • Available in different flavors
  • Gluten-free
  • Boosts endurance
  • Banned substance tested
  • More than 20 flavors to choose from

Cons

  • Expensive

Foods for Cyclists:

Before taking supplements, everyone should eat a healthy and balanced diet.

  •  Limit the intake of processed and refined foods.
  •  Consume a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • High-quality protein foods such as chicken, eggs, and oily fish are good sources of energy.
  • Eat iron-rich food with vitamin C
  • Sports food such as gels and bars for athletes is highly energetic, consisting mainly of carbohydrates, allowing quick access to energy.

There is no need for supplements to improve health and quality of life by following these food suggestions.

Benefits of Cycling Supplements:

Supplements are used to fill the gap between the dietary intake and physical needs for vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients.

Having a deficiency in any of these areas could result in poor health and increased susceptibility to disease. Also, athletes become even more critical as any deficiencies can lead to a drop in performance.

Some of the supplementary products recommended to cyclists are qualified to implement, while others offer minimal benefits. Also, these products help restore strength and energy to your muscles.

In general, any athlete or cyclist can use the supplements to:

  • Improve muscle gain 
  • Prevent or reduce muscle breakdown
  • Prevent cramps
  • Replace lost minerals
  • Help the recovery faster 
  • Enhance immune system
  • Enhance the overall health 
  • Improve the ability to boost physical health

It is advisable to consult the doctor before having any supplements because instead of providing healthy advantages, certain supplements also produce negative effects like insomnia and anxiety. Some also raise blood pressure.

Illegal Cycling Supplements:

Sports organizations strictly ban a few supplements. These include:

  • Amphetamines:

Amphetamines are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system, enhance awareness and confidence, improve concentration, decrease the appetite and create a sense of increased energy.

They are also highly addictive and are listed on the sports organizations’ list of illegal cycling supplements.

  • Anabolic Steroids:

The male hormone testosterone is a synthetic form of anabolic steroids. The non-medical use of anabolic steroids by most major sports organizations is illegal and prohibited.

  • Caffeine:

It is a natural ingredient that athletes use for years to stay alert and boost their stamina. Although not usually toxic, at high doses, it may have dangerous side effects. 

That’s why it is present in the list of illegal supplements for cycling.

  • Beta-Blockers:

Beta-blockers like bisoprolol and propranolol increase muscle power and stamina but are forbidden for cycling by sporting organizations.

Best Cycling Recovery Products:

The cycling recovery products are used to short the recovery time and heal the body quickly. Following are the most common cycling recovery products:

  • Turmeric:

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties have long been touted for its pain-relieving and sustaining properties. It is considered the best recovery product for cycling. 

  • Green Tea:

High amounts of antioxidants are present in green tea. It has been demonstrated to help reduce muscle pain and to recover muscular strength faster.

  • Ginger:

This naturally occurring food is full of anti-inflammatory substances, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. It thus helps the cell recovery to be desirable.

Moreover, ginger is typically known to reduce articular pain and improve joint health.

  • Cherry Juice:

Cherry Juice Cherry Juice is rich in antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation and to improve muscle restoration. It also helps to avoid loss of strength. So it’s a good cycling recovery drink!

Final Thoughts

At times it isn’t just enough to eat a balanced, healthy diet to get you at the top. The perfect amount of supplements can help you feel more energetic, optimistic, and healthy during the whole exercise.

The important thing to understand is that people must recognize that every individual is different, so it is crucial to analyze their requirements and thus the supplements. 

When selecting a supplement, consumers must check the quality ingredients, and any element that might contribute to unwanted side effects should be avoided. Artificial sweeteners and flavors are also being recommended to avoid.

To conclude, be sure to check the brand if you want to include any of the above cycling supplements in the diet.

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