Using Shilajit for Bodybuilding: A Comprehensive Guide

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Those looking for a more natural and maybe unconventional supplement to improve their bodybuilding regime may consider trying shilajit.

Shilajit, a dark black resinous substance found in the Himalayas, has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Shilajit is currently gaining a lot of popularity among bodybuilders and athletes. 

I tried shilajit myself and I found it to be quite the experience for mental clarity and focus, but what does shilajit offer for those with a stronger focus on bodybuilding?

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using shilajit for bodybuilding, how it works, and the best ways to incorporate it into your routine.

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a black or brownish resinous substance that seeps from the rocks in the Himalayas during the warmer months. It is composed of a complex mixture of minerals, humic and fulvic acids, and other organic compounds. 

In Ayurvedic medicine, shilajit is believed to have numerous health benefits, including boosting energy, enhancing cognitive function, and promoting longevity.

How Does Shilajit Work?

Due to the way it’s created, shilajit contains more than 80 minerals, including fulvic acid, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.

Shilajit also contains dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, which are believed to enhance testosterone production and humic acid, which has been shown to enhance muscle function and increase endurance in athletes.

A 2015 study showed participants who took shilajit supplements for 90 days had significantly higher levels of testosterone compared to those who took a placebo.

Why Are People Using Shilajit for Bodybuilding?

1. Boosts Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is a hormone that is essential for muscle growth and development. When men have lower levels of testosterone it can lead to decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and reduced energy levels. 

Shilajit has been shown to increase testosterone levels in men, which can help to improve muscle growth and athletic performance for bodybuilders especially.

2. Enhances Muscle Recovery

Intense exercise can cause muscle damage and inflammation, which can lead to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and reduced muscle function. 

Shilajit’s anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation and promote muscle recovery after exercise.

3. Increases Energy and Endurance

The minerals and organic compounds found in shilajit can help to boost energy levels and increase endurance. 

It has been shown to improve oxygen utilization and reduce fatigue in athletes, making it a popular supplement for endurance sports like running and cycling.

4. Improves Cognitive Function

In addition to its physical benefits, shilajit has also been shown to enhance cognitive function. It contains fulvic acid, which has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function in animals and humans. This makes shilajit a worthy consideration for athletes who want to improve their mental focus and performance.

How to Use Shilajit for Bodybuilding

You can get shilajit in several different forms, such as capsules, powders, and resin. 

When I first got into shilajit, I was told to go for the resin form as it’s considered more potent than any other form. I simply dissolved it in warm water, check out my video detailing how I took it.

Many choose to take shilajit in powder or capsule form, mainly due to bodybuilders wanting the convenience of not having to do the extra steps to prepare the resin for consumption.

When using shilajit for bodybuilding, for those who have never taken shilajit before it is recommended to start with a small dose and gradually increase it over time just to make sure it agrees with your body. 

Once you are sure it agrees with your body, you can up the amount you take as needed. Most manufacturers recommend taking shilajit once or twice a day, with meals.

When to Take Shilajit for Bodybuilding?

When it comes to using shilajit for bodybuilding, the time you actually take it can be just as important as the amount of it you take.

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to take shilajit, there are some general guidelines that can help you to get the most out of it.

There are 3 key times of the day to take shilajit in order to get the most out of its benefits for bodybuilding.

1 – Morning, shortly after waking up. 

This is because shilajit has been shown to increase energy levels and enhance cognitive function, making it a great way to start the day on the right foot. Taking shilajit in the morning can help you to feel more alert and focused throughout the day, which can be especially beneficial if you plan to work out later in the day.

2 – Before a workout. 

This is because shilajit has been shown to boost testosterone levels, which can help to enhance muscle growth and recovery. Taking shilajit before a workout can also help to increase energy and endurance, allowing you to push yourself harder and get more out of your workout.

3 – Night time, before bed. 

This is because shilajit has been shown to have calming and sleep-enhancing effects, which can help you to get a better night’s rest. Getting adequate sleep is essential for muscle recovery and growth, so taking shilajit before bed may help to support your bodybuilding goals.

Of course, the best time to take shilajit for bodybuilding will depend on your individual preferences. 

If you are just starting to use shilajit, it might be a good idea to experiment with different times of day to see what works best for you.

You may also want to consider combining shilajit with other supplements or ingredients, such as caffeine or beta-alanine, to further enhance its effects.

As well as timing, it is also important to make sure you use a high-quality shilajit, one with good purity and no added ingredients. 

Seriously consider the quality of the shilajit you are using.

You may also want to choose a shilajit supplement that is standardized to a certain percentage of fulvic acid, as this is one of the key active compounds in shilajit.

How Much Shilajit Per Day – What’s the Sweet Spot for Best Results?

It’s important to know how much shilajit to take per day just so you get a clear idea as to whether it works for you or not.

The last thing you want to happen is to not feel any difference or experience unwanted side effects because you were just taking the wrong amounts from day one.

There isn’t a hard rule or one size fits all amount of shilajit that everybody should take, however, there are some generally agreed guidelines that give you a clearer idea of how much you should take per day.

Most shilajit supplements recommend a dosage of around 300-500 milligrams per day. However, some products may recommend higher or lower doses depending on their specific formulation. 

When deciding how much to take, I always recommend taking a lower dose and gradually increasing it over time, just to get an idea of how your body reacts to it and to be aware of any bad reactions.

Also, as mentioned before, consider the quality of the shilajit you use as this can affect your experience no matter what dosage you take. I recommend this product as a high-quality shilajit you can try. 

Choose a product that is standardised to a certain amount and has the key active ingredients of shilajit as well.

Can Shilajit Build Muscle?

In recent years, shilajit has gained popularity among athletes and bodybuilders as a supplement for improving athletic performance and building muscle mass.

But can shilajit actually build muscle? Let’s take a closer look.

First, it is important to understand that muscle growth is a complex process that is influenced by a variety of factors, including diet, exercise, and genetics.

While there is no single supplement or magic pill that can guarantee muscle growth, some supplements may help to support muscle growth and recovery when used together with a good diet and exercise routine.

Shilajit is believed to contain a variety of active compounds, including fulvic acid, which may have potential benefits for muscle growth and recovery. Fulvic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to improve the absorption of nutrients, which can help to support muscle recovery and growth.

One study published in 2019 in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that shilajit supplementation was associated with improved muscle strength and endurance in healthy adults. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential muscle-building benefits of shilajit.

Are there Any Side Effects?

Like with any supplement, it is very important to be aware of potential side effects before starting to use shilajit.

Shilajit is generally considered safe when used as directed however there are some things that should be thought considered.

One of the most common side effects of shilajit is digestive upset, including diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. This is typically more common in individuals who take too high a dosage of shilajit, or who have sensitive stomachs.

In addition to digestive upset, shilajit may also interact with certain medications, including blood pressure medications and diabetes medications. If you are taking any prescription medications do be aware of this.

There is also some concern that shilajit may contain heavy metals, which could be harmful if consumed in high amounts. Look for a product that has been tested for heavy metal contamination and that is made using high-quality ingredients. Read the label carefully.

As mentioned, shilajit may increase testosterone levels in men. While this is one of the reasons many men reach for shilajit, an increase in testosterone may also lead to side effects such as acne, increased body hair growth, and mood swings. 

If you have fears or doubts, always consult a doctor, especially if you have a history of hormone-related health conditions.

Conclusion – Using Shilajit for Bodybuilding

When used correctly, shilajit is some powerful stuff, not just for those with a focus on bodybuilding, but for anybody who wants something to enhance their overall health and well-being. 

Shilajit is a natural supplement with numerous benefits for bodybuilders and athletes. Its unique blend of minerals, organic compounds, and antioxidants can help to boost testosterone levels, enhance muscle recovery, increase energy and endurance, and improve cognitive function.

Just make sure you use it in the right way, start with a small dose and gradually increase it as needed. Shilajit is something that doesn’t work instantly so a small amount every day will have a bigger impact than you think.

While shilajit does have benefits for bodybuilding, be aware of the potential side effects before you run out and look to buy some.