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Power Eating

Lauren Jacobsen BSc. (Biochemistry)
Lauren received a degree in biochemistry from Trent University in Ontario, Canada where she studied creatine and its effects on sport performance. After graduating, Lauren decided to use her biochemistry background to develop performance-enhancing supplements for many of the top supplement companies in the industry. Lauren also practices what she preaches and has competed in bodybuilding and figure competitions throughout the world. In fact, Lauren placed 1st at the Canadian Natural Nationals, qualifying to compete at the IFBB Women’s World Championships in Spain as part of Team Canada! Lauren’s also a regular contributor to Inside Fitness. She’s also the co host of the hit TV show “Body Fuel” where she presents viewers with the proper use of sports supplements for enhancing athletic performance. Lauren will arm you with the latest research on novel ingredients, delivery systems and of course new product releases. If there’s something that works or is a downright scam, Lauren will be the first to report on it!
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Diuretics Use Among Figure And Bikini Competitors

Q. Is diuretic use common among figure and bikini competitors, and if so, what types of diuretics are they using?

A. Diuretics are a common supplement used among figure and bikini competitors, and they’re typically consumed one week prior to a competition or even a photo shoot. Diuretics are used to dispel the body of excess water and create maximum definition. Generally, a diuretic is any product that elevates the rate of urination, causing a forced diuretic effect. Many different ingredients can cause diuresis, via various mechanisms of action. The most common types of diuretics among competitors are loop and potassium sparing. Loop diuretics inhibit the body’s ability to reabsorb sodium at the ascending loop in the kidney, which leads to retention of water in the urine, as water normally would flow back into the extracellular fluid. Some loop diuretics can be considered high-ceiling diuretics, which cause a substantial diuresis of up to 20 percent of the filtered load of sodium chloride and water. Normal renal sodium reabsorption usually leaves only 0.4 percent of filtered sodium in the urine. Loop diuretics can also significantly increase calcium excretion. Although there are herbal diuretics out there, most competitors opt for prescription diuretics to ensure they’re delivering a precise amount of ingredient. Additionally, it has been found that over-the-counter diuretic products use a combination of plant extracts; however, these ingredients, although known as diuretics, are usually considered aquaretics because they promote aquaresis, which is the excretion of water without electrolyte loss. Herbal diuretics increase blood flow to the kidneys without increasing sodium and chloride reabsorption, thus causing an increase in urine while retaining electrolytes.

To read more by Lauren Jacobsen, click HERE. To check out her personal website, visit http://fitdiva-lauren.blogspot.com/