Everyday Athletes: Which Supplements are Right for You? -Part 4 of 4

“How do I choose the right supplements?” In parts 1-3 of Everyday Athletes, I introduced the approach of Moderation, laid out a plan to figure out how many calories you need daily to start losing some of your unwanted weight and included some tips on how to stay motivated.  Part 4 us diving into the world of supplements, which can be a great addition to your health and fitness plan.

Deciding to supplement your health and fitness journey can be a great idea.  When deciding to supplement, you should educate yourself on the supplements before you just start buying stuff, expecting magical results. I believe that any health/wellness plan should include two staple supplements: Multivitamin Fish Oil Capsules (dha/epa) If you decide to supplement beyond that, choices should be made based on your goals – not because there was a good sale on something, or because the packaging or ad in a magazine made it look like a “must have”.  Here are a few of the most popular choices when it comes to supplements  -and the BEAST product that fits Fat Loss Aid/Thermogenic - Most of the time, users of this type of supplement aren’t putting in the diet and hard work that should go along with it.  If you take it and don’t eat right and exercise, you’ll get nothing out of it.  Thermogenics are designed to aid the body in reducing its fat stores and increase your overall energy and alertness/focus.  Beast has two choices for this category – both are excellent:  Amphetalean  or 2 Shredded Creatine – Creatine is a naturally occurring substance in the body.  Mostly in skeletal muscle, but a bit stored in other parts of the body.  Creatine can be found in food sources, especially red meat, but you’d have to consume so much red meat or go broke trying to get the same amount you can easily get with a creatine supplement.  The main purpose of creatine is to increase strength/performance during short, intense bursts of exercise.  Creatine is also a muscle builder – as it can aid in keeping the body in a more anabolic state which increases protein synthesis.  Beast has hit the sweet spot in Creatine products with their excellent blend of Creapure.  You can get “Creature” in either capsule or powder form.  If you decide to supplement with creatine, I tend to limit it to no more than 10g per day.  You’ll also want to take creatine on non-workout days, usually with your morning meal. Whey Protein – We all need protein, and when losing weight, you still need protein.  Protein contains amino acids – the main building blocks of muscle.  If you’re thinking – wait, I’m trying to lose weight, don’t worry.  Taking protein, and building some lean mass while you’re losing fat is only going to increase your body’s metabolic rate (read: BURN MORE CALORIES)  The main idea of a healthy diet is to get at least 80% of your nutrients from whole foods, but there are times when it’s just not feasible, and whey protein is extremely versatile.  I am for 2 shakes per day – one in the morning, one immediately post-workout.   Beast Whey is an awesome protein formula utilizing three specific forms of to stimulate new muscle growth. That covers the three major supplements that most people will start out with after getting their diet and exercise plan in check.  Whatever supplements you choose, make sure to educate yourself on their benefits before you just start buying items. I hope this “Everyday Athletes” series has helped get you started on making the decision to get healthy and fit.  I don’t like clichés, but it’s true: If I can do it, so can you.  I was 300lbs just two short years ago, wearing a size 46 pants.  Today, I am 215lbs and maintain a size 34 pants.  I am here to help, and would love to answer any questions you have.  Just drop me a comment below.  Also, don’t forget to follow me on twitter @LonnieRuns.