6 Supplements to amplify your workouts
6 Best fitness supplements
Protein
Adopting a high-protein, low-carb diet is not going to deliver the fitness results you seek, but ensuring your have adequate protein (and complex carbohydrates) in your daily meal plan will give you the energy you need to power through workouts and enhance your muscle recovery. Dr. Prisk recommends increasing your protein intake to help grow and repair your muscles after exercise. “Portable protein supplements in the form of bars, powders or ready-to-drink options can be a convenient source of energy and nourishment when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and workout regimen,” he adds.
Branch chain amino acids (BCAA)
Another key supplement that helps with muscle recovery is BCAA. “Supplements and workout formulas containing BCAA can help reduce the amount of muscle breakdown as a result of exercise,” Dr. Prisk explains. “The more muscle you retain, the quicker your body can burn calories. BCAAs go beyond their function as building blocks for muscle and actually stimulate the repair process (muscle protein synthesis).”
Vitamin packs
Though everyone can benefit from taking a multi-vitamin, recreational and competitive athletes are especially in need of nutritional support to help them get through workouts. Dr. Prisk recommends the GNC Women’s Ultra Mega Active Vitapak, which combines scientifically researched nutrients and focused ingredients to help enhance energy, boost metabolism, support bone and joint health, and even improve your mood.
Caffeine
Too much caffeine can lead to the jitters, lack of focus and eventually an energy crash, but in moderate amounts, this natural stimulant can amplify your workouts. According to Dr. Prisk, when taken as directed by a person in good health, supplements and workout formulas containing reasonable amounts of caffeine can boost your performance and limit your perceived exertion so you work out harder. Caffeine can also reduce your exercise recovery time.
Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their heart health and anti-inflammatory properties. These healthy fats can improve joint flexibility, reduce muscular inflammation, and speed up recovery from exercise or injury. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish, such as salmon, and nuts and seeds. If you’re not a fish fan, consider a supplement. Dr. Prisk says, “It can be challenging to get enough from the food you eat — such as fish or walnuts — so taking fish oil supplements, such as GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil 1240 (which contains 40 percent smaller pills that are 300 percent more potent) can be an effective way to get more omega-3s.”
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are another diet buzzword that you shouldn’t ignore. Found abundantly in fruits and vegetables, antioxidants can improve your fitness by improving the post-exercise healing process. Dr. Prisk recommends a healthy antioxidant-rich diet as well as a supplement. “Studies show that taking a supplement with free-radical-fighting antioxidants in advance of your workout may help you improve muscle recovery and reduce soreness,” he adds.
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