Understanding the Role of Supplements
Supplements are products that are added to or taken along with regular food. Supplements are meant to support a healthy diet. They usually don’t provide all of the nutrients you need. There are literally hundreds of supplements available that appeal to different groups of people. There are many myths about protein supplements floating around the internet and fitness communities. Some people believe that they need to consume large amounts of protein to build muscle when in reality, most people get more than enough protein from their diet.
Others believe that protein supplements are necessary to build muscle when in reality, protein supplements are not necessary and can actually be harmful. And finally, some people believe that protein supplements are the only way to build muscle when in reality, there are many other ways to build muscle (e.g., weightlifting, resistance training, etc.).
What Are Supplements?
There are hundreds of supplements readily available to consumers. Nearly all of them claim to improve health, wellness, or fitness. And while many supplements have scientific backing, others are simply marketing gimmicks. Dietetics students often ask about supplements since they are so popular. The answer is that it depends on the supplement. Some are evidence-based and can be beneficial, while others are not.
What Are the Different Types of Supplements?
There are different kinds of supplements. The main ones are protein, vitamins, and supplements for physical activity. Protein supplements will help you recover after heavy workouts and build muscle. Vitamins are for overall health.
Supplements for physical activity are a special category. They help you keep fit and enhance your athletic performance. The most popular of them are energy supplements. They help you go longer and your workouts more intense. Sports supplements are products designed to enhance athletic performance. They can be used to improve strength, endurance, or recovery from exercise. Supplements can be in the form of pills, powders, or drinks. They are typically taken before or after workouts.
Who Should Take Dietary Supplements?
Some people believe that they should take dietary supplements, but taking supplements is not for everyone. Questions you should ask your doctor before taking supplements include:
What’s the Best Time to Take Supplements?
Taking supplements before a workout may be a good idea, but the best time to take them is right after you exercise. When you exercise, you deplete your body of nutrients, including electrolytes and B vitamins. Taking supplements can help replenish these nutrients, allowing you to recover faster.
Should You Take Supplements with Food?
The current nutrition trend in the United States is toward personalized nutrition and away from one-size-fits-all diets. This personalized nutrition approach is built on the belief that consuming the proper nutrients in proper amounts promotes optimal health. However, these nutrients are found in foods, so the question remains: Should you take supplements with food?
Protein Myths There are many myths about protein supplements floating around the internet and fitness communities. Some people believe that they need to consume large amounts of protein to build muscle when in reality, most people get more than enough protein from their diet. Others believe that protein supplements are necessary to build muscle when in reality, protein supplements are not necessary and can actually be harmful. And finally, some people believe that protein supplements are the only way to build muscle when in reality, there are many other ways to build muscle (e.g., weightlifting, resistance training, etc.).