Understanding Supplements

Over the decades, the use of supplements has gained immense popularity. There's a supplement for nearly anything: shiny hair, nail growth, building muscle, and even energy boosts. In this guide, you'll get a crash course on the most popular supplements and if you should integrate them into your fitness routine.

Dietary Supplements

Vitamins and minerals are the most common form of supplements among the general public. They naturally occur in foods and when consumed, help the mechanisms in your body to function properly. Although it's possible to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals through diet, some people may not have a balanced diet. With busy lifestyles, it's not always easy to consume balanced meals. In addition, some people may suffer from disorders that cause nutritional deficiencies such as anemia. Signs of brittle hair, a weak immune system, and oily skin could mean you're deficient in some vitamins and minerals.

Before taking any form of supplements, it's best to consult your doctor. You can also assess your own diet to see what you could possibly be lacking. Picky eaters and those with food allergies or lactose-intolerance will find it beneficial to take certain vitamins and minerals to correct dietary deficiencies. However, it's important to consume no more than the recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals. The following are some common vitamins and minerals with their excellent benefits:

• Vitamin C: Promotes a healthy immune system, eye health, proper wound healing, and prevents heart disease.
• Vitamin D: Supports the growth of strong bones and teeth.
• B vitamins: Includes thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, biotin, and a few others. You may recognize some of these from the nutritional facts on food products. Folic acid is highly regarded by pregnant women and women trying to conceive. It helps maintain new cells in the early stages of pregnancy and reduces birth defects. In addition, B vitamins help you achieve healthy skin, eyes, hair, and mouth.
• Potassium: Great for reducing high blood pressure, promoting heart health, and possibly reducing cholesterol.
• Calcium: Many people know the importance of calcium but they may not get their daily dose. Like vitamin D, calcium helps build strong, healthy bones and may lower the risk of some cancers.

The above are just a small snapshot of the vitamins and minerals needed in a balanced diet. Incorporating the necessary supplements into your diet can give you fantastic benefits and improve your overall health.

Workout Supplements

Supplements are not just relegated to the vitamin and mineral realm. There's an array of supplements that can enhance your fitness routine. They can improve muscle growth, increase energy, reduce cramping, and ease joint pain. But what are these powerful supplements? The following make great additions to your workout:

• Whey protein: Whey protein can help build muscle, curb hunger and promote healing after injuries. It's water-soluble which means it can easily be mixed into a drink or added to a smoothie before blending. Vegans and vegetarians who may have trouble adding a sufficient amount of protein to their diet can compensate with whey protein powder. It also comes in delicious flavors like vanilla and strawberry.
• Creatine: Give yourself a boost of high energy with creatine. Creatine is a grouping of amino acids found in muscles and provides cells with much-needed energy. Drinking beverages with creatine powder will give you the energy for intense workouts, improve recovery, and increase exercise performance.
• Glucosamime and chondroitin: These two compounds are usually paired together to make a powerful supplement that reduces joint pain and the breakdown of cartilage. Many people with arthritis and joint issues take this supplement with good results. Taking this supplement may also heal problem joint areas faster and prevent future injuries.
• Electrolytes: Electrolytes are minerals found in the body that carry an electrical charge. They help muscles function, transport waste out of cells, and control blood pressure to name a few. Electrolytes can leave the body through perspiration so it's important to replenish them. A loss of electrolytes can result in cramping, nausea, and vomiting.

Electrolyte supplements are a great way to prevent negative symptoms while working out. These can come in pills, powders, or in sports drinks. They typically contain a cocktail of vital minerals such as sodium chloride (salt), calcium, magnesium, and potassium. In addition, consuming a salt capsule while exercising can be a quick fix until you're able to hydrate and replenish electrolytes.

Cheers to Great Health

Whether for dietary needs or exercise, supplements can improve your overall health and keep you energized throughout your workouts. When choosing supplements, you mustn't forget to assess your situation. Variables such as lacking certain nutrients, wanting to gain muscle, or experiencing joint pain can significantly narrow down what type of supplements to take. You're only one step away from improving yourself and your fitness regimen with the right supplements.

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