Ma Huang
A herb that yields the stimulant Ephedra. See Ephedra.
Maltitol
This is a sugar alcohol that is used as a sweetener. It has half the caloric value of sucrose because it is not completely absorbed by the body.
Maltodextrin
A long chain of glucose molecules (carbohydrates) that provides sustained energy without sharply increasing insulin levels. Essentially a chain of molecules of the simple sugar glucose linked together. There are an average of seven glucose molecules linked together to form a maltodextrin molecule.
Manganese
Needed for normal tendon and bone structure.
Magnesium
Mineral necessary for energy metabolism, protein and fat synthesis, neuromuscular transmission, amonia scavenging and binding of calcium to teeth, etc. Aids in bone growth, and is necessary for proper functioning of nerves and muscles.
Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)
MCT's are technically fats, but they have very unique properties. The difference between them and other fats lies in their molecular structure. MCT's are shorter than other fats, which allow them to be burned rather quickly by the body for energy. MCT's enter the mitochondria, the powerhouse of a cell, without assistance, and do not require the usual transport mechanism.
MCT's are an attractive supplement because of their calorie density. They have 9 calories per gram, like fats, but lack the disposition to be stored as fat. All fats are not created equal. Research shows that animals maintain a lower body fat when they use MCT's in place of traditional fats. They can help you increase lean muscle tissue, decrease excess body fat and fuel precompetition workouts.
Melatonin
Hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates circadian rhythms; helps induce sleep and acts as an antioxidant.
Menopause
Menopause is a term used to describe the permanent cessation of the primary functions of the human ovaries: the ripening and release of ova and the release of hormones that cause both the creation of the uterine lining and the subsequent shedding of the uterine lining - the menses or the period. Menopause typically occurs in women in midlife, during their late 40s or early 50s, and signals the end of the fertile phase of a woman's life. The word "menopause" means "end of monthly cycles".
Methionine
A sulfur bearing essential amino acid important in hair, nail and muscle production, liver maintenance (lipotropic effects), and production of creatine and other aminos.
Methoxyflavone
Also called 5-methyl-7-methoxyisoflavone. A synthetic isoflavone that is highly anabolic, yet free of any androgenic effects. It halts the muscle wasting, and increases lean tissue growth. It increases calcium phosphorous, potassium and nitrogen retention to a significant degree.
Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle) is an herb that has been used for thousands of years to treat chronic liver disease. It is a tall, stocky, plant that is native to the Mediterranean. Milk Thistle has been used to enhance liver function. The plant contains flavonolignands which are responsible for its benefits.
Milk Thistle is a very powerful antioxidant which acts to remove toxic elements from the body. Milk Thistle functions to protect the liver from harm by detoxifying the body. When the liver is damaged by pollutants, or any other environmental factor, Milk Thistle helps the liver to generate new cells. Its ability to cleanse the liver is well-documented in scientific literature, and it may also be beneficial in reducing the risk of developing gallstones.
Mineral
Inorganic substances necessary for good health as an ingrediant or a catalyst.
Mineral (Chelated)
A chelated mineral is generally attached to a protein transporter molecule with the intent of improved transport across the gut to the blood stream. Although some of the minerals are well absorbed in this manner it does not necessarily always indicative of the best form for absorption.
Monounsaturated Fats
An essential fatty acid (EFA) that seems to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is considered a type of 'good' fat. Olive oil, and canola oil have this in them. You need approxiamately 2% of your daily calories as EFA's.
