Supplements for Post-Workout Muscle Soreness

Whether you are new to CrossFit or been around the block a few times, muscle pain and soreness are part of the CrossFit lifestyle. Stretching and rolling out sore muscles will definitely aid in recovery. From a nutritional standpoint there are specific supplements you can take to keep the inflammatory process in check. My top three favorite nutritional supplements are: Omega 3's (essential fatty acids), L-Arginine and good old fashioned water.

With Omega 3's, the optimal therapeutic dose is 2700mg a day of EPA and DHA. To get this level, go for the liquid brands. One or two teaspoons a day is much easier than 6 to 10 horse pills a day. And make sure your omega 3's are from Norway to ensure the lowest levels of heavy metals.

l-Arginine not only improves muscle recovery time and soreness. It also aids in total cardiovascular support, energy production and nitric oxide production. Optimal dosage, 5000mg a day. Two of my favorite brands are L-arginine plus and L-arginine complete.

Water is often our most neglected basic essential for optimal health. Strive for 25oz. per 50lbs. of body weight. So if you are 150lbs., your recommended amount is 75oz. of water a day. Also for every 8oz. of coffee or tea you ingest per day, that is an additional 8oz. of water you must add to your regiment. Most of your early morning muscle stiffness can be alleviated by drinking 16oz. of water before you head off to do your WOD.

Hope this helps.

Enjoy.

Dr. Corey