Many people second guess using supplements because they can be expensive, and also, the range is so large that it can be confusing as to which ones to use. Supplements are mostly used by those who want to build muscle mass, but they can be used for those looking to burn fat too.
Let's get down to it - do you NEED supplements in order to get results? NO! You do not need them to get results, but they can help. Being a nutritionist, and someone who loves their food, I always advise my clients and others to try and get as much nutrients from actual food as they can. Some people do tend to rely on supplements, and their actual food diet is extremely poor - that's not the way to go.
I myself use supplements, but over the past 2 years I have tried many different ones, and have now found a 'base line' of supplements that I use and that works for me. I use whey protein, grounded oats, maltodextrin, bcaa's, glutamine, caffeine, electrolytes, creatine and beta alanine. To be honest with you, I don't use that much though, a few grams here, a few grams there, and then some protein shakes. I know some guys who have a huge amount of supplements everyday, as they are convinced that you need to do that.
First thing's first, get your food diet sorted. If you have a poor food diet, then using supplements isn't going to do that much. Many people are on a budget when it comes to food and supplements, and so am I, but always try and get as much fresh, quality food as you can within your budget, and then with what's left over, you can experiment with supplements. It is an individual thing, just because one supplement will work for one person, doesn't mean you will have the same benefits.
Just remember one thing - every supplement brand is there for a reason, to make money, it is a business after all. Some brands will have poor quality products and still try and charge a fair price, but other brands will have far better quality products and their prices will reflect that. The better quality products will tend to be more expensive, same with many things in life really. But don't get conned into thinking that you actually need supplements otherwise you won't get the body you want. Supplements can make it a heck of a lot easier, and more convenient, but you don't need them if you have your food diet completely sorted out.
Just a quick post today, a few more before Xmas too!
Lee Gregory Fitness
