It would be understandable for anyone starting out in the bodybuilding world to feel overwhelmed by the choice of supplements. Your local gym is likely touting one product while your pharmacy claims another is certain to revolutionize the industry.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all bodybuilding supplement. There are numerous factors to consider before you make the choice that will provide you with the most significant benefits. Check out the top five questions we think you need to consider.
Why are you taking a supplement?
Did you know that children in the northern regions of Norway have been given fish oil for generations? This is to combat the lack of vitamin D during their months of darkness. To a child growing up along the equator, this dietary supplement would be deemed wholly unnecessary. This might be a simplistic anecdote, but it showcases why supplements are best tailored to the person and their specific needs and deficits.
What types of supplements are available?
Dietary supplements are a combination of minerals and vitamins taken to boost overall wellness and health. Fitness supplements are meant to improve a workout regime and are geared towards active individuals. Last but certainly not least: bodybuilding supplements aim to support the growth of lean muscle. This is where things get interesting.
What bodybuilding supplements do I need?
You’ve likely heard a lot about protein and even integrated a high protein, low-fat diet into your routine. However, did you know that protein is considered a supplement? It is essential to understand how much protein you need to reach your goals. Some common types of protein supplements include:
- Whey protein – derived from milk
- Casein protein – also derived from milk but digested slower than whey protein
- Egg protein
- Pea protein – excellent for vegans, vegetarians and those with dairy or egg allergies
- Hemp protein – high in omega-3 fatty acids but not a complete protein
- Brown rice protein – low in lysine but little research has been done on its effectiveness for bodybuilding
- Mixed plant proteins – can include a combination of pea, hemp, brown rice, quinoa, chia seeds, flax seeds or alfalfa
What supplement is best for muscle gain?
We know that protein is needed for muscle gain, but you likely need to focus on more than diet and weight training to see impressive results from your continued gym sessions. The following supplements can support your hard work so that you can start seeing increased muscle mass sooner:
- Anadrole – touted as a legal steroid that mimics the effects of Oxymetholone
- Creatine – an amino acid typically found in red meat and seafood
- Leucine – provides energy and increases muscular endurance
- Glutamine – an amino acid that supports the immune system
What supplement is best for weight loss?
Once you have built your muscle mass, you undoubtedly want it to be seen, regardless of whether you are at the competition level currently. If your aim is to lose weight, then consider finding a supplement any combination of the following ingredients:
- Green tea extract
- Caffeine
- Green coffee extract
- Guar gum
- Hoodia
- Ephedra
- Chitosan
- Chromium Picolinate
- CLA – Conjugated Linoleic Acid
- Glucomannan
Knowing what ingredients to look for when it comes to bodybuilding supplements depends on what results you are looking to achieve. While there is no shortcut to determination, hard work, and perseverance, there are supplements that can take you in the right direction.
