Supplements - do i Need Them?

Let’s chat about the most popular fitness supplements

We all love the thought that we can take a pill or a potion and it will magically solve our problems. Unfortunately, this is not usually the case when it comes to supplements. In saying that, used carefully and intelligently, supplements can support a healthy lifestyle. One thing to remember is that supplements are not regulated and can be sold without proving that they actually work. Let’s look at a few common supplements now:

Pre-workout

These caffeine filled supplements give you a serious buzz. While they help with a really tough workout, some people can feel the effects for hours afterwards (goodbye, good night’s sleep). They can also be expensive - for anyone on the hunt for a cheaper alternative, a strong black coffee can provide the caffeine boost you need.

Protein powders

Protein powders are perfect if you run straight from the gym to work without getting in a decent feed, or if you struggle to eat enough protein. However, most adults get enough protein without using powders, and consuming more protein isn’t necessarily better. A great use for protein powder is to add protein to a meal that usually wouldn’t have any (like a smoothie), making it more filling and satisfying.

Magnesium

Usually used to ease muscle soreness, magnesium supplements come in many different forms including pills, sprays or bath salts. If you are prone to sore muscles, magnesium can be helpful - but be careful with your dosage and how you administer it. Taken orally in high doses, magnesium is a powerful laxative. If you wish to dodge the possibility of digestive upset, opt for a epsom salt bath or a magnesium spray.

Multivitamins

Ahh the good old multi-vitamin that helps atone our sins…. Sorry folks, but you can’t rely on supplements to counteract a bad diet. Also, your body uses vitamins and minerals from actual food much better, so if you can, get what you need from a balanced diet. Specific vitamins can be useful if you are deficient or you don’t/can’t eat certain foods - however the only way to know if you are lacking in a certain vitamin is to go to your GP and get tested for deficiencies.

Fat shredders

Run very far away from anything that claims to burn or shred fat. There is literally nothing in a pill form that will do this. Hate to break it to you, but the only thing that will burn fat is exercise teamed with a nutritious diet.

In summary - look at your lifestyle first before popping random pills and hoping they will fix the problem. If in doubt,

see your GP and get their guidance on which supplements will be effective and suitable for you.