If you have been looking into natural supplements for muscle building, you may have come across Shilajit. This ancient substance, also known as mineral pitch, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now gaining popularity among athletes and bodybuilders. But “Is Shilajit good for muscle building? from a science perspective. In this article, we will take a scientific perspective to answer this question and provide you with all the necessary information about the benefits of Shilajit for bodybuilding.
Mechanism Of Action Of Shilajit For Bodybuilding
Shilajit is a natural phytocomplex that contains a wide range of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and other organic compounds. These components have been scientifically proven to have numerous positive effects on muscle growth and recovery [1].
Among the key elements found in Shilajit is fulvic acid, which acts as a transporter for essential nutrients, aiding in their absorption by the body [2].
Furthermore, Shilajit has been discovered to elevate testosterone levels, a hormone crucial for muscle growth and strength. Studies have shown significant improvements in testosterone levels among men who were supplemented with Shilajit [3].
Moreover, Shilajit can stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which promotes the dilation of blood vessels and enhances blood flow to the muscles.
This process contributes to improved muscle recovery and growth [4].
Learn more: How Much Does Shilajit Increase Testosterone? In Females And Males
Is Shilajit Good For Muscle Building?
Is Shilajit good for muscle building? Based on the scientific evidence and its mechanism of action, Shilajit does have potential benefits for muscle building.
Aside from its potential benefits for muscle building, Shilajit also has other benefits that can aid in bodybuilding. Some studies have found that it can improve endurance, making it beneficial for athletes and those looking to improve their physical performance.
Shilajit is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and aid in post-workout recovery [5].
Other Benefits Of Shilajit For Bodybuilding
Enhanced Oxygen And Nitric Oxide Levels
To exercise for longer periods without experiencing fatigue and the need for frequent breaks, it is crucial to maintain high oxygen levels in your muscles. This requires an increased supply of red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin responsible for carrying and storing oxygen in the body and muscles. Iron plays a vital role in the production of red blood cells.
Shilajit, an iron-rich Ayurvedic medicine, can help boost the production of red blood cells by increasing iron content in the blood. As a result, it reduces fatigue and muscle soreness.
Additionally, Shilajit capsules, enriched with fulvic acid, have been found to significantly elevate oxygen levels. Fulvic acid, known for its bioavailable oxygen content of 45%, can help combat fatigue induced by lactic acid or CO2 accumulation. By incorporating Shilajit into your routine, you can extend your exercise regimen without feeling breathless [6].
Furthermore, Nitric Oxide can enhance workout efficiency by promoting increased blood flow through vasodilation, which relaxes smooth muscles and expands blood vessels. Shilajit has shown the ability to elevate Nitric Oxide levels by up to 30%.
This increased blood flow to the muscles allows bodybuilders to perform for longer periods. Shilajit is a remarkable resin that not only improves the oxygen efficiency of the heart but also helps lower your working heart rate [7].
Improved Mineral Absorption And Hydration
Fulvic acid is a key component of Shilajit, offering numerous benefits. Not only does it enhance oxygen levels, but it also boasts remarkable absorption properties.
This allows for efficient absorption of minerals and essential nutrients, resulting in increased energy levels. By preventing mineral deficiencies caused by exercise-induced sweating, it helps combat lethargy. Additionally, it aids in eliminating unwanted toxins from cells [8].
The Shilajit capsule plays a vital role in maintaining optimal body hydration levels, especially during intense exercise when water depletion occurs. As an abundant source of electrolytes, it promotes smooth muscle contractions, ensuring better performance.
Accelerated Bone Healing And Pain Relief
Shilajit offers a valuable advantage - they possess the remarkable ability to accelerate the healing of wounds, scars, and fractures. It's not uncommon to experience broken bones or fractures after a workout.
By supplementing with Shilajit 500 mg capsules, you can expedite the healing process, promoting the rapid regeneration of cracked bones and enhancing your bodybuilding performance. Furthermore, the bioactive component of Shilajit, humic acid, combats inflammation with its powerful antioxidant properties, effectively reducing joint pains [9].
Enhances Skeletal Muscle Adaptability And Flexibility
Shilajit has numerous benefits for muscular flexibility and adaptability. Multiple studies have highlighted the positive impact of Shilajit in improving skeletal muscle function and adaptation, particularly in obese individuals engaging in resistance and endurance activities.
Shilajit supports skeletal muscles by enhancing the expression of ECM (extracellular matrix)-related genes responsible for maintaining, developing, regenerating, and restoring muscle tissue [10].
By regularly supplementing with Shilajit, collagen production can be increased, along with other essential proteins that uphold the structural and biochemical integrity of cells.
Creatine-Free
Bodybuilders who consume drugs containing creatinine may suffer from significant kidney damage. In contrast, Shilajit is devoid of creatinine and aids energy production without compromising the function of any organ.
Promotes Healthy Mitochondrial Function
Dysfunctional mitochondria can lead to various health complications, including elevated oxidative stress and reduced energy production. These effects can contribute to fatigue, accelerated aging, diminished stamina, and impaired cellular energy utilization [11].
Shilajit capsules, rich in antioxidants, are recognized for their positive impact on the mitochondrial respiratory chain and electron transport chain. They effectively reduce levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly during intense physical exercise.
Read more: Does Shilajit Increase Sperm Count?
FAQs
Is Shilajit Better Than Creatine?
Shilajit has been found to have several advantages over creatine. Unlike creatine, Shilajit does not cause any harm to the kidneys and is a safer alternative for bodybuilding purposes.
Which Is Better For Muscle Building: Ashwagandha Or Shilajit?
Both Ashwagandha and Shilajit have their unique benefits for muscle building. While Ashwagandha is known to reduce inflammation and improve strength, Shilajit can enhance oxygen levels, promote mineral absorption, and support skeletal muscle function.
Is Shilajit Good For Testosterone?
Shilajit has been found to increase testosterone levels in men. This can have a positive impact on muscle building and overall physical performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Is Shilajit good for muscle building?" is grounded in its diverse and proven benefits. Its unique properties, such as promoting oxygen levels, enhancing mineral absorption, supporting skeletal muscle function, and improving mitochondrial function, make it an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their physical performance. Moreover, its safety profile and lack of harmful additives make it a healthier alternative to other muscle gain supplements. Whether you are a bodybuilder or someone looking to enhance their athletic abilities, Shilajit can be a beneficial addition to your supplement routine.
References
[1] Shailesh K. Bhavsar. (2016). Shilajeet - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. Www.sciencedirect.com. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/shilajeet
[2] Meena, H., Pandey, H., Arya, M., & Ahmed, Z. (2010). Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems. International Journal of Ayurveda Research, 1(1), 37. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-7788.59942
[3] Pandit, S., Biswas, S., Jana, U., De, R. K., Mukhopadhyay, S. C., & Biswas, T. K. (2015). Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Andrologia, 48(5), 570–575. https://doi.org/10.1111/and.12482
[4] Habib, S., Moinuddin, & Ali, A. (2017, January 1). 4 - An Overview on Nitric Oxide and Energy Metabolism (D. Bagchi, Ed.). ScienceDirect; Academic Press. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/B9780128054130000041
[5] Wilson, D. R. (2017, December 16). Shilajit: 10 benefits and use. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320318
[6] Dash B. Materia Medica of Ayurveda. New Delhi: B Jain Publishers; 1991
[7] Bhishagratna KK. Susruta Samhita. Vol 2. Varanasi, India: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office; Varansi-1; 1998. Chapter XIII
[8] Schepetkin, I. A., Xie, G., Jutila, M. A., & Quinn, M. T. (2008). Complement-fixing activity of fulvic acid from Shilajit and other natural sources. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 373–384. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2635
[9] Parisa Kangari, Roshangar, L., Iraji, A., Tahereh Talaei‐Khozani, & Mahboobeh Razmkhah. (2022). Accelerating effect of Shilajit on osteogenic property of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs). Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-022-03305-z
[10] Keller, J. L., Housh, T. J., Hill, E. C., Smith, C. M., Schmidt, R. J., & Johnson, G. O. (2019). The effects of Shilajit supplementation on fatigue-induced decreases in muscular strength and serum hydroxyproline levels. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-019-0270-2
[11] Stohs, S. J. (2013). Safety and Efficacy of Shilajit (Mumie, Moomiyo). Phytotherapy Research, 28(4), 475–479. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5018
This article synthesizes information from studies conducted by experts and researchers worldwide. The studies from the researchers below have contributed significantly to the article's content, aiming to provide reliable information to readers.
Sidney J. Stohs
