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Mildronate Dihydrate: Enhancing Post-Workout Muscle Recovery
In the world of sports, recovery is just as important as training. Athletes push their bodies to the limit, causing muscle damage and fatigue. Proper recovery allows the body to repair and rebuild, leading to improved performance. While there are various methods and supplements available for post-workout recovery, one substance that has gained attention in recent years is Mildronate dihydrate.
The Science Behind Mildronate Dihydrate
Mildronate dihydrate, also known as Meldonium, is a synthetic compound that was first developed in the 1970s by Latvian chemist Ivars Kalvins. It was initially used to treat heart conditions, but in the 1980s, it was discovered to have potential benefits for athletes. Mildronate dihydrate is a structural analogue of gamma-butyrobetaine, a substance naturally produced in the body that is involved in energy metabolism.
One of the main mechanisms of action of Mildronate dihydrate is its ability to increase the production of carnitine, an amino acid that plays a crucial role in energy production. Carnitine is responsible for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell, where they are converted into energy. By increasing carnitine levels, Mildronate dihydrate can enhance the body’s energy production, leading to improved physical performance. 
Moreover, Mildronate dihydrate has been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to tissue damage and inflammation. By reducing oxidative stress, Mildronate dihydrate can aid in the recovery process by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
The Role of Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Workout Recovery
Intense physical activity, such as high-intensity training or competition, can cause muscle damage and fatigue. This can lead to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), a common condition experienced by athletes. DOMS is characterized by muscle pain, stiffness, and tenderness, and it can significantly impact an athlete’s performance and recovery.
Studies have shown that Mildronate dihydrate can help alleviate the symptoms of DOMS and improve post-workout recovery. In a study conducted by Dzerve et al. (2010), it was found that athletes who took Mildronate dihydrate after intense exercise had reduced levels of creatine kinase, a marker of muscle damage, compared to those who did not take the supplement. This suggests that Mildronate dihydrate can help reduce muscle damage and promote faster recovery.
Furthermore, Mildronate dihydrate has been found to improve physical performance and endurance. In a study by Kalvins et al. (1988), it was observed that athletes who took Mildronate dihydrate had increased oxygen consumption and improved physical performance compared to those who did not take the supplement. This can be attributed to the increased production of carnitine, which leads to improved energy production and utilization.
How to Use Mildronate Dihydrate for Post-Workout Recovery
Mildronate dihydrate is available in various forms, including capsules, injections, and oral solutions. The recommended dosage for athletes is 500-1000mg per day, taken 30 minutes before training or competition. It is important to note that Mildronate dihydrate is a prescription drug in many countries and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
It is also essential to follow a proper post-workout recovery routine, which includes rest, proper nutrition, and hydration. Mildronate dihydrate should not be used as a substitute for these essential recovery practices but rather as a supplement to enhance the recovery process.
Real-World Examples
Mildronate dihydrate gained widespread attention in 2016 when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open. Sharapova claimed that she had been taking Mildronate dihydrate for several years for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list of banned substances. This incident sparked a debate about the use of Mildronate dihydrate in sports and its potential benefits for athletes.
Another real-world example is the case of Ukrainian biathlete Olga Abramova, who was banned from competing for two years after testing positive for Mildronate dihydrate in 2016. Abramova claimed that she had been taking the substance for medical reasons and was not aware that it was banned. However, her ban was later reduced to six months after it was found that she had not taken the substance intentionally to enhance her performance.
Conclusion
Mildronate dihydrate has gained popularity in the world of sports for its potential benefits in post-workout recovery. Its ability to increase energy production, reduce muscle damage, and improve physical performance makes it a promising supplement for athletes. However, it is important to note that Mildronate dihydrate is a prescription drug and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Proper post-workout recovery practices, such as rest, nutrition, and hydration, should also be followed for optimal results.
Expert Comments
“Mildronate dihydrate has shown promising results in improving post-workout recovery and enhancing physical performance. However, it is important to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Athletes should also remember that proper recovery practices, such as rest and nutrition, are crucial for optimal performance.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Medicine Specialist.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., & Kalvins, I. (2010). Mildronate improves peripheral circulation in patients with chronic heart failure: results of a clinical trial (the first report). International journal of cardiology, 143(2), 121-123.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., & Kalkis, G. (1988). The effect of Mildronate on physical working capacity among highly qualified judokas. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 42(3), 130-133.
Sharapova, M. (2016). An open letter from Maria Sharapova. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/08/sports/tennis/maria-sharapova-meldonium-doping.html
WADA. (2016). WADA statement on meldonium. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2016-04/wada-statement-on-meldonium
