BEST SUPPLEMENTS FOR BASKETBALL PLAYERS

Basketball: 10 players, 2 hoops, 1 ball. While it may seem like a simple concept, basketball is a game that requires incredible skill and strategy. While it’s a fun game to play (or watch from the sidelines), it’s very physically demanding and can put excess stress on the body. To keep themselves in tip-top shape, basketball players should focus on adequate recovery time and a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. However, there are also supplements for basketball players that may support their athletic goals, such as energy, muscle, joint, and immune health.

THE STARTING LINE UP

The best vitamins for basketball players provide essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, protein, and other key ingredients – so athletes can stay healthy both on and off the court. You also need to be prepared with some basketball health tips.

So what are the best basketball player supplements? Are there vitamins for basketball players? Here’s our starting line up.

Protein for Basketball Players

Protein is an essential macronutrient that every athlete (and person) needs. Because of intense practices, basketball games, and training sessions, athletes have higher requirements for protein. Protein is key for maintaining lean muscle and fueling the body with the energy and calories it needs to perform. That’s where protein supplements can help. There are many sources of protein to choose from, such as whey, casein, and plant-based protein sources. Protein can also be found in the form of powders, drinks, bars, and fortified snacks.

Energy Products for Basketball Players

Regardless of how much sleep and recovery time you get, sometimes it helps to have an extra energy boost right before tip-off. Basketball players who tolerate caffeine well can benefit from caffeine-containing products, such as pre-workout supplements, and B vitamins, which help to support energy production.

BCAAs

BCAAs (or branched chain amino acids) are comprised of three essential amino acids – leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are considered essential because the body cannot produce them on its own, which means they must be consumed through food and supplements.

BCAAs help to preserve muscle glycogen stores during exercise. Once glycogen stores are depleted, the body taps into muscle for energy – which is what athletes want to avoid. Basketball players may benefit from BCAA supplements to fuel muscle and protect muscle breakdown during intense workouts.

Electrolytes

By the fourth quarter, your jersey is probably drenched in sweat. Excessive sweating leads to the loss of key electrolytes the body needs to function properly. It’s important to replenish with a hydrating sports drink that’s rich in electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Think of rehydration like rebounding a ball coming off the hoop – you need it to get back in the game.

Creatine

Creatine is a compound found naturally in skeletal muscle and is comprised of three amino acids—methionine, glycine and arginine. Creatine is utilized to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the body’s main energy source. Creatine works best at the beginning of exercise before other energy systems that require oxygen can kick in.

Because basketball requires players to use quick bursts of energy (such as sprinting and jumping), creatine may be a helpful addition to your gym bag. Creatine monohydrate promotes cellular hydration, plays a role in muscle protein synthesis, fuels skeletal muscles, and may improve athletic performance.

Honorable Mentions For Basketball Supplements

These honorable mentions aren’t just bench warmers – they deserve a chance to play as well!

Multivitamins and Omega-3s

No matter how healthy your diet is, the majority of us aren’t consuming adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats through food alone. That’s why you need a full court press to help fill the gaps – with a multivitamin and omega-3. A bonus for basketball players – omega’s can support joint health and certain vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin D and Zinc, support the immune system (because no one wants to sit the bench!).

Joint Health Supplements

Basketball players may experience joint issues due to the repetitive mechanics of the game, including jumping, running, sudden stops, and pivots. Two of the most common ingredients in joint health supplements are glucosamine and chondroitin, which are the building blocks of joint cartilage. This powerful duo may support joint function, joint flexibility, and mobility. Another important joint health ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which is a gel-like substance that has the capacity to hold water and helps with cushioning joints. If you’re looking for a vegetarian or plant-based alternative, turmeric and tamarind seed have been used for centuries to support joint health.

Keep the Ref Off Your Back

Professional and collegiate athletes may be subject to regular drug testing. That’s why it’s important to make informed decisions about which supplements you take. For peace of mind, look for products that are tested for prohibited substances by third-party agencies.