B-Vitamins for Football Performance
Just as a midfield maestro directs the flow of the game, B-Vitamins takes charge of energy metabolism, and oxygen transportation, ensuring a smooth and efficient supply to working muscles. Picture it as the playmaker orchestrating seamless passes, delivering energy & oxygen right where it's needed for optimal performance.
Why are they so important?
These essential micronutrients, including B6, B9, and B12, are the powerhouse behind converting carbohydrates into the energy that fuels your muscles. Without them, the process becomes inefficient, leaving your performance potential untapped.
Most gels focus solely on providing carbohydrates for a quick energy fix, but they miss a crucial element – the micronutrients that make all the difference. Unlike most gels on the market, Football Fuel recognises the importance of B-vitamins in the energy production process.
What does this mean?
By including these micronutrients (B-Vitamins) in our formulation, FOOTBALL FUEL ensures that every bit of carbohydrate is effectively transformed into the energy your muscles demand.
The Science
A recent study found that vitamin B levels were more consistently depleted in individuals during periods of intense exercise, in comparison to periods of rest, reaffirming the need for regular consumption particularly amongst active individuals.
Additionally, the vast majority of these vitamins are easily degraded through food preparation stages (i.e. cooking), and hence, regular intake through supplementation serves as a more reliable source of B vitamins, ensuring levels do not reach levels that risk compromised performance.
B-Vitamins in FOOTBALL FUEL
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine):
• Energy Metabolism: Vitamin B6 is a vital coenzyme in various metabolic pathways, particularly in the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats for energy. For footballers engaged in high-intensity activities, B6 ensures the efficient conversion of nutrients into the energy needed to power through the game.
Vitamin B9 (Folate):
• Cell Division and Repair: B9, commonly known as folate, plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and repair. In the context of football, where muscle cells undergo continuous stress and repair during training and matches, B9 supports the body's ability to regenerate and recover, contributing to overall muscle health.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin):
• Red Blood Cell Formation: B12 is essential for the formation of red blood cells, the oxygen carriers in the bloodstream. In football, where endurance and oxygen delivery are pivotal, B12 ensures an adequate supply of oxygen to working muscles. Improved oxygenation translates to enhanced stamina and reduced fatigue.
B6, B9, and B12 form the backbone of energy metabolism, cellular repair, and oxygen transport – the pillars of optimal football performance. While the focus often rests on macronutrients like carbohydrates and proteins, these micronutrients ensure that every aspect of the footballer's body functions harmoniously, unleashing the full potential on the pitch.
References:
1. Lee MC, Hsu YJ, Shen SY, Ho CS, Huang CC. A functional evaluation of anti-fatigue and exercise performance improvement following vitamin B complex supplementation in healthy humans, a randomized double-blind trial. Int J Med Sci. 2023 Aug 15;20(10):1272-1281. doi: 10.7150/ijms.86738. PMID: 37786445; PMCID: PMC10542023.
2. Lukaski HC. Vitamin and mineral status: effects on physical performance. Nutrition. 2004 Jul-Aug;20(7-8):632-44. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2004.04.001. PMID: 15212745.
