Understanding Supplements

As you've noticed, there are some supplement pics here on this blog. I don't take everything I can get my hands on, but I do have a supplement stack that I take pre/post workout to optimize my experience in the gym. If you're sitting in the office and thinking about exercising, it would help alot have an understanding about supplement nutrition.

When most people think of supplements, the first thought that may come to mind is huge bodybuilders pumping steroids in their butt. Of course steroids are not a nutritional supplement. It's a drug.

This is my perspective on supplements. Many people today are not as active as they were in the past. It's for this reason that supplements come in handy for people who don't have the time to exercise regularly, or are not able to dedicate an hour to exercise. Because of today's technology, things are done the easy way-- and that may take a toll on your physique.

But you have to distinguish the definition of "supplement" and "drug". According to the Webster dictionary, the definition of the term "supplement" is: a product taken orally that contains one or more ingredients (as vitamins or amino acids) that are intended to supplement one's diet and are not considered food. The definition of the term "drug" is: a substance other than food intended to affect the structure or function of the body.

Most of you already take a number of drugs, but it's possible to replace some of those drugs with supplements as a healthier option, like cutting back on caffeine and taking more vitamin B12, for instance. The only problem is that the FDA does not evaluate most supplements. This may be because some supplement companies do not establish the daily value for their ingredients, or they may not have submitted an application for the FDA to approve of their formulas. So when in doubt, take a small dosage to ensure there are no side effects (diarrhea, cramps, nausea, etc).

Think of supplements as food extracts, because that's basically what it is. Ingredients like creatine and BCAA (branched chain amino acids) can be found in protein foods. Omega-3, which maintains your heart function, join flexibility and brain function, can be found in fatty fish. Antioxidants can be found in most fruits and vegetables. You get the point.

You don't really need supplements in order to achieve a strong physique. But without it you have to be on a strict diet and exercise 3-5 times a week, for longer than 30 min. Supplements can help you achieve your fitness goals alot faster, and in a healthier manner.