With the start of a new year come new ways to self-improve. For many of us those goals are health and fitness related. As a Kinesiology student, I want to use this platform to educate Camosun students on one of the most misinformed topics in health and fitness: supplements. Here are a few I recommend and a few that aren’t worth the squeeze.
Creatine: Cop
One of the most well-researched supplements, creatine helps to increase muscle mass and strength when combined with weight lifting as well as an improvement in high-intensity-short-duration exercise. There has also been some emerging research that shows creatine may have cognitive and neuroprotective benefits; however, more research is needed to confirm this. Buy creatine monohydrate—any brand is fine—and take five grams a day, every day. That’s it.
Fat burners and testosterone boosters: Drop
If the advertisements for these products seem too good to be true, that’s because they are. Fat burners and testosterone boosters only come with a high price tag and minimal to non-existent results—leave these on the shelf. Instead, focus on lifestyle changes to make the changes you want to see.
Vitamin D: Cop
This is one that I’ve talked about in the past and is vital for men’s health, especially during the dark months of the winter. Find one with minimal fillers, and aim for 600-800 IU a day.
Greens powders: Drop
I learned this one the hard way. Besides almost throwing up every morning I drank these, I noticed no results in the way I felt or performed. These aren’t worth the $40-plus a month you’ll be dishing out. You’re much better off just buying fresh or frozen vegetables.
Protein powder: Cop
While not absolutely necessary, protein powder can help you get enough protein in without being too calorie-dense. It’s also convenient when you’re on the go. If you can, try to avoid the really cheap stuff and get a middle-of-the-road brand in a flavour you’ll enjoy.
Finally, a word of caution: before you go and spend your whole paycheque at the supplements store, it is important to know that consistent exercise and quality nutrition is what will get you 90 percent of your results. Focus on those big rocks. Supplements are just a helpful add on for that last 10 percent.
Happy exercising.