The multi-billion dollar supplement industry’s recommendations can be overwhelming! Take a break from the protein powders, energy boosters, and hormone enhancers and consider two basic supplements as your essentials. Regardless of athletic, aesthetic, health, or wellness goals, these supplements should find their way into your cupboard or refrigerator.
Fish Oil (Omega-3 fatty acids) There are plenty of daily recommended amounts floating around, however none are conclusive, nor are we certain of exact individual dosages. Enlist the aid of a Fitness Professional to determine the appropriate dosage and best course of action for your goals.
The consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids may improve your cardiovascular health, prevent certain types of cancer, and help reduce a slew of mental health disorders such as depression, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. The most immediate benefit you might encounter is reduced inflammation, which is one of the main culprits that slow down recovery after a strenuous training session. The less inflammation in your system, the faster your recovery.
Vitamin D3. Vitamin D is naturally produced in our bodies when our skin is exposed to sunlight, but a lot of us live in geographical regions (or work in jobs) which require us to cover a majority of our skin most of the time. If you’re unable to get direct sunlight for 20 minutes per day, consult your health professional for their dosage recommendation unique to you.
The benefits of Vitamin D3 include cancer prevention, maintain bone density, boosts our immune system, and again, cardiovascular health. That’s important in a country where heart disease is so rampant.
Consider Fish Oil and Vitamin D3 as your two basic supplement needs (provided you are an otherwise healthy individual.) They are highly affordable, and their claims are backed by legitimate scientific research.
Most importantly when considering supplements, do your own research. Get on Google. Look for unbiased sources. Read your food labels. Keep a log to determine if you feel better, look better, or perform better.
David Sandel is the creator of AthleteCreator.com and DudesWithTents.com. Follow him on Twitter (@AthleteCreator, @DudesWithTents) and/or Facebook for more great health and fitness info.