Most of us have, at some point, felt completely overwhelmed and confused standing in front of the vitamins and supplement aisle, trying to decide what to take and which would suit our body and goals the best. Vitamins and supplements offer our bodies the nutrients we need for optimal physical function throughout our daily activities and workout sessions. But the question is how to make the best choice, and with all the confusing science out there, how to choose the most suitable product.
Our bodies absorb different types of vitamins at different rates, so you might discover that some supplements are more effective than others. For instance, antioxidants such as vitamins C and E can help repair cellular damage and free radicals produced from digestion and exercise. However, vitamins and dietary supplements aren’t always the best choice for everyone, as we all have different needs. The best action is to talk to your doctor to ensure you’re not consuming too much or too little of a specific vitamin.
Boost your nutrition with protein.
Before you start consuming supplements, the first step is to adopt a balanced diet that will provide all the essential nutrients for your body and strengthen your immune system. Protein is crucial for success, whether you’re trying to build muscle, lose weight, or improve endurance. Studies prove that increasing the amount of protein in your diet helps in fat loss, lowering blood pressure, controlling blood sugar, and muscle repair. The two most popular sources of protein are whey and casein. Both are produced from milk but offer different benefits.
Casein contains bio-active peptides that boost the immune and digestive systems, helping regulate blood pressure and weight loss. On the other hand, whey protein is preferable for building muscle as it works faster. However, casein lingers in your system longer, so it helps preserve your muscles. It’s best to use a combination of the two. Ideally, whey should be taken before exercise and casein before bedtime to help with recovery.
Add supplements and Vitamins
Sometimes, you can digest all the necessary vitamins through food, so you must add vitamins and health supplements. Vitamins play an essential part in our entire system. Firstly, they help control chemical reactions within the body to transform food into energy. Vitamin C protects the cells and immune system, and B complex vitamins are crucial for good eyesight, skin health, and nervous and digestive systems. B vitamins also help the body recover and restore its energy levels.
However, both vitamins are water-soluble and can’t be stored in the body, so they must be taken daily. On the other hand, fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, can be stored in the body, which also means you can get sufficient amounts through a balanced diet. Vitamin A benefits good vision, healthy skin, bones, and the immune system.
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant associated with hormonal balance, improved vision, and healthy cholesterol levels. However, according to some studies, high Vitamin E and Vitamin C intake can compromise workout recovery. Vitamin K and zinc also offer a variety of health benefits. Vitamin K strengthens teeth, bones, and cartilage, whereas zinc reinforces the immune system.
Don’t forget the Antioxidants
Antioxidants are a crucial factor in eliminating free radicals that damage your cells. These molecules are produced when the body breaks down food. Antioxidants play an essential role in protecting the body against heart disease and cancer, so you should try to include quality sources of antioxidants in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices. You should also include anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats from fish, flax, chia seeds, and walnuts. These fats support muscle recovery and general wellness.
Conclusion
Between proper nutrition and consistent workout, achieving optimal health might not always seem like an easy journey. However, studies have proven that supplements like amazon glucosamine chondroitin can boost your journey and achieve the desired results. Whether you want to build strength, lose fat, or run a marathon, proper nutrition and the right supplementation can help you achieve your fitness and health goals. Be consistent with your workouts, eat a healthy and balanced diet, and add supplements and vitamins to support your training.
About the author: Stella van Lane is a passionate traveler and writer who loves coffee, interior design, books, and good vibes.
