Vignette #1 John Is 35 and Interested in Gaining Muscle

Vignette #1 John is 35 and interested in gaining muscle mass. He wants to do it as quickly as possible and goes to the local health food store. The clerk approaches him wearing a white lab coat-this immediately impresses John, who now thinks that the clerk is well informed. John explains that his goal is to gain the maximum muscle mass in the shortest time. The clerk gets a twinkle in his eye and says "Let me show you what we have that will certainly help you." Let's see if the clerk really knows what ergogenic aids are all about by answering these questions. The clerk recommends that John increase his protein intake by purchasing amino acid supplements. Is this a good idea?

A) Yes, because most Americans don't get enough protein of high quality.
B) Yes, because these products have been proven to increase muscle size.
C) No, because your body converts extra amino acids to fat.
D) No, because excess amino acids can lead to over-hydration.