The Chemistry Behind Common Workout Supplements - Charged Magazine

The organic chemistry that fuels your pre-workout supplements!

Phosphocreatine

• Donates a phosphate group to ADP, allowing ATP to be regenerated
• Energy is released more efficiently = more oxygen delivery to muscles/brain
• Potential increase in strength, reverse muscle loss, and improved brain function
• Harsh on kidneys for those with pre-existing conditions

Beta-Alanine (3-Aminopropanoic acid)

• Binds with histidine in the brain/muscles, creating carnosine
• 80% increase in carnosine levels = prevents acid buildup in anaerobic respiration
• Decreases muscle fatigue, increases training volume

DMAA (1,3 Dimethylamylamine)

• Synthetic drug similar to methamphetamine
• Highly effective neurological stimulant, acts like adrenaline
• Increased risk of stroke, lactic acidosis, and glaucoma
• Heightened blood pressure + heart rate
• Banned by World Doping Agency