Shilajit for Enhancing Athletic Performance

Shilajit is sticky in nature, formed by decomposition of plants over hundreds of years. It is a natural mineral that originate in India and has been widely used in Ayurvedic medicines. It is known as asphalt, bitumen, shilaras, etc. Latin name for shilajit is Asphaltum punjabinum.

It is mainly found in the sedimentary rocks of Himalayas at high altitude. The shilajit resin is black-brown in colour that comes out from sedimentary rocks found at altitude of 10,000 feet. There are mainly two forms of shilajit - gomuthira shilajit and karpura shilajit. However all have same physical and chemical properties. 

Shilajit is a dhatu, used as an ayurvedic supplement and also as an ayurvedic medicine (herbo mineral) for various chronic diseases. In Ayurvedic texts, shilajit is mentioned under herbal medicines and under Rasayana group. Herbs considered under rasayana are rejuvenator herbs that improves the quality of life.

Amongst the various health benefits, shilajit offers amazing benefits to enhance athletic performance. It increases energy level, supports quick recovery, promote muscle strength, and improve muscle mass. 

Let us learn in brief the ways in which it can help enhance performance in athletes.

•      Boosts Energy Levels

Shilajit is a potent natural supplement in ayurveda renowned for its energy-boosting properties. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to enhance mitochondrial function, the cellular powerhouse responsible for producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency. This can lead to sustained energy during workouts and faster recovery.

• Prevention of Fatigue and Dehydration 

Shilajit is packed with over 80 essential minerals in ionic form, making them highly bioavailable. Shilajit replenishes critical electrolytes lost during exercise, preventing cramps, fatigue, and dehydration. By replenishing electrolytes, Shilajit helps maintain cellular hydration, which is essential for endurance.

It reduces the risk of hyponatremia (low sodium levels) or other electrolyte imbalances that can impair performance.

•       Enhances Endurance

Shilajit has high fulvic acid content, which contains approximately 45% oxygen. Carbon dioxide and lactic acid produced during exercising contribute to breathlessness and muscle soreness, respectively. Oxygen content from Fulvic acid may help mitigate these side effects of exercise. This can support better stamina and endurance during physical activities.

•       Promotes Muscle Recovery

Shilajit's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce muscle soreness and oxidative stress caused by intense exercise. It accelerates muscle recovery, making it ideal for athletes.

•      Increases Strength

Rich in minerals, Shilajit aids in maintaining electrolyte balance and supports muscle contraction and strength. Regular use can help in building muscle mass and improving overall performance.

•       Supports Testosterone Levels

For men, Shilajit is known to boost testosterone levels, which are essential for muscle development, endurance, and energy. This makes it a popular supplement among male athletes.

•       Enhances Mental Focus

Shilajit is rich in iron content which is required for haemoglobin which carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Good haemoglobin supports cognitive health by reducing fatigue and improving focus, concentration, and alertness, all of which are crucial during training and competition.

•       Promotes Recovery from High Altitudes

Shilajit is traditionally used to combat high-altitude sickness. For athletes training in high-altitude areas, it can help adapt to reduced oxygen levels and mitigate associated fatigue.

•       Supports collagen production.

Collagen, a structural protein, provides strength and elasticity to the skin while ensuring flexibility and resilience in joints and ligaments. The intake of Shilajit has been shown to maintain collagen production in the body, which helps in repairing bones and tendons and improved joint health.

•       Nitro Oxide booster

Nitric oxide dilates the blood vessels. This helps improve blood circulation hence more availability of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. Muscle function improves when it receives more nutrients i.e improved growth and stamina. Shilajit intake increases the nitric oxide in blood and so improves athletic performance.

•      Better absorption of iron and minerals

Iron deficiency is most common and one of the leading cause of fatigue or tiredness. Shilajit being rich in iron and minerals is essential for formation of red blood cells. Improved haemoglobin maintains the energy for physical activity.

How to Use Shilajit for Athletic Performance

• Dosage: Start with 300-500 mg of purified Shilajit per day. Adjust the dose based on tolerance and effectiveness after consulting ayurvedic doctor.
• Timing: Consume in the morning or before workouts for an energy boost or post-workout for recovery.
• Form: Shilajit is available in resin, powder, or capsule form. Ensure it is from a trusted, high-quality source to avoid contaminants.
• With Milk or Water: Traditionally, Shilajit is mixed with warm milk or water for better absorption.

Precautions

It is safe to use shilajit, but only if the source is authentic. If necessary one must consult an ayurvedic physician to know the dosage and prevent any side-effects.

• Purity: Always choose purified Shilajit to avoid heavy metal contamination.
• Medical Conditions: Consult a healthcare provider if you have kidney disease, gout, or are on medications.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible; discontinue if adverse reactions occur.
• Recommended dosage: Avoid overdosing and stick to the recommended amounts.

Shilajit can be used in routine in various forms such as capsule or tablets, powder and paste. Shilajit in the form of powder is mixed with juice or water. In the form of paste or resin, shilajit is dissolved milk or warm water. To get the optimum result, shilajit is consumed before going to work out. Also, it is important to consume healthy foods and be active.

We are surrounded with lot of supplements in the market that promise to improve athletic performance. The sportsperson or athletes need to perform well and be strong enough to withstand any wear and tear. Shilajit, the ayurvedic herbo mineral stands out amongst the best natural supplements that can help achieve the full potential of athletes.

Conclusion

Be it for men health or a supplement to improve athletics’ performance. Shilajit is a time tested ayurvedic herb that continues to be a key component in nutritional supplements. Intake of high quality shilajit improves productivity when taken before workout. The dosage and duration of shilajit intake must always be consulted under the guidance of ayurvedic doctor.