21 weeks out and need help...

[ChuckaZulu]

TweetI've been competing (natural) for 5 years now and have a decent pre-contest regimen, however I'm now taking Hydrochlorathiazide (HCTZ) for my blood pressure. At this point in my contest prep I'm only 10 lbs over my contest weight, but have usually been at least 20-25 lbs over in past shows. I don't want to over diet or start cardio to early.

Does anyone know how my body will respond to a pre-contest diet while taking 50mg HCTZ daily?

Help

[ChuckaZulu]

TweetYellowJacket,

Any thoughts on this?

[YellowJacket]

TweetIf you know your body and know you're normally 25lbs+ over, and you're only 10, I think you're going to be fine.

HCTZ is a natural diuretic and thankfully it works in relatively small doses, so you should be shedding some water by using it. Did they accompany you with any potassium sparring medication? or advise you to add some potassium in your diet? All these natural diuretics, for high BP, strip the body of potassium, which as a bodybuilder isnt something you want obviously. Altace is the primary BP medication I have come in contact with and it works quickly and while monitoring athletes, they tend to shed 5+lbs in a weeks time, primarily from the medication.


As for your diet, I wouldnt change anything, stay hydrated and keep potassium levels in check, I actually thinkg HCTZ could be beneficial to a pre-contest individual. Best of luck and keep us updated on how the show goes.....

[ChuckaZulu]

TweetThanks,

My MD has me do blood work on occasion to check my potassium, sodium, etc. With a dose of just 50mg, I haven't had a problem with my electrolytes. I've tried other BP meds, but suffered some side effects from them. My MD is cool and I keep him informed about my diet, training, and supplementation. Being a Paramedic helps also and he looks for my input.

Your Pre/During/Post Workout Nutrition thread was great.

I just placed my first order with "ProteinCustomizer"

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CFM Whey Isolate 25%
Hydro Whey Ultra 25%
Maltodextrin 15%
Dextrose 15%
BCAA's 10%
Glutamine Peptides 10%

1 serving =
28g Carbs
42g Protein
1g Fat

Thanks again for the great info

[YellowJacket]

TweetLooks good, and yea thats the great thing about HCTZ, works wonders small doses, good luck with the contest brother..