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If you’ve decided to get fit this year, first of all, congratulations! Taking that initial step to actually get started is always the hardest. Alongside getting the workouts in, you need to be helping your body to recover and grow stronger with the right diet. This means eating enough lean protein, fresh vegetables and good carbohydrates.
To support your diet, there are many great supplements you can take. But, it’s important to remember: there are many gimmicks in the fitness world, promising to burn fat without actually doing much. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is and you should steer clear of any promises of a ‘shortcut’. But, there are many tried and tested supplements that are proven to have a positive impact on your body while working out. Let’s take a look.
Fish oil is a top supplement to take while working out or even if you’re not. Containing omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil is anti-inflammatory which helps your body recover after a tough workout. It helps to ease joint and muscle soreness and supports blood circulation, lung and heart health.
If you eat enough foods filled with vitamin D and see sunlight every day, you may not need a supplement. But during winter time, when the sunlight hours are minimal, a vitamin D supplement will benefit your body. Ask your doctor to check your levels if you’re not sure. If vitamin D levels are low, this may mean testosterone is low and your mood will be affected. Taking a supplement may help enhance your workout in the gym.
If you’re hitting the workouts hard, your muscles will be tearing and repairing. Protein is needed to help your muscles grow bigger and stronger. If you’re eating enough natural protein like; chicken, pork, beef, liver and fish, you should be ok. If you’re vegetarian and struggle to eat enough protein, try adding a protein shake to your diet.
Vitamin K2 mainly comes from animal sources like beef and liver. It helps to improve bone strength and minimises calcium build up in your blood vessels. If you don’t eat meat, you may be missing out and a vitamin K2 supplement will help.
Magnesium is an important nutrient in the body. It’s used in over 300 chemical reactions including maintaining blood sugar levels, regulating muscle and nerve function, blood pressure and making protein, bone and DNA. Regarding exercise, magnesium has a positive effect on muscle recovery and regulating blood pressure. If you experience symptoms like cramping, you could be deficient in magnesium. Foods like leafy greens, seeds, nuts, whole grains, legumes and milk contain magnesium. If you feel you’re not eating enough, try a supplement.