FAQ – September 2015
Q. Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant: should I be choosing one over the other?
A. As wonderful as we all smell, know that our body odor is produced by our body's breakdown of sweat. Deodorant masks the smell of that odor, but it doesn't prevent sweat. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, block the sweat from reaching the skin. Aluminum is the key ingredient that blocks those pores so that sweat can't get through.
According to an article at Livestrong.com, if you sweat heavily, then antiperspirants are best for you. If you sweat only a little but still have problems with odor, then a deodorant is the best formula. Some antiperspirants can cause blocking of the pores in the armpits, which can cause rashes or other skin problems. If you have a reaction to an antiperspirant, try a deodorant instead, or try a natural deodorant that contains no pore-blocking chemicals or ingredients. For some people, over-the-counter deodorants may not be strong enough. Ask your doctor about prescription-strength deodorants if you cannot find a brand that works for you.
Q. I've heard I need to get protein into my body 30 minutes to an hour after a workout. Truth or myth? What happens if I wait two or three hours?
A. Assuming you exercise with the intention to build muscle, this suggestion is not a myth. When you lift weights or do body weight training to the point of muscle fatigue, your muscle tissue will be left with small tears and need help recovering. Enter protein. Consuming 10 to 20 grams within 30 to 60 minutes of completing a workout is essential because it “increases protein synthesis and reduces protein breakdown, which supports the building of muscle,” according to Dr. Joseph A. Chromiak, PhD, CSCS.
Waiting too long can diminish your chances for a full recovery. The American Council on Exercise notes that if you don’t eat anything immediately after your workout, “your body will enter a catabolic state, which means it will use muscle tissue for fuel instead of body fat or carbohydrates.”
While protein powder is a convenient option, nothing is more beneficial to your body than hearty, whole foods. Our bodies have evolved to recognize animal protein as the most efficient source of muscle replenishment.
Q. I want to start running with weights. What are my options and are there many associated injury risks?
A. Congratulations on the decision to take your running regimen to the next level! If you’ve ever been around Lady Bird Lake during the early afternoon, you may have spotted an Austin firefighter running with a weight vest to enhance his or her training. Investing in a weight vest can yield benefits, aside from the obvious (building muscle and gaining strength). When you run with a weight vest, your body is forced into postural awareness, so you’ll have to run in a neutral position to avoid strain.
Using ankle or hand weights during your run is not a great idea. Ankle weights have a history of causing legs injuries. Not only can hand weights cause joint strain, but they could throw off the natural bio-mechanics of your body when you run.
