Should I Buy Supplements?

\"jasongreenberg\"by Jason Greenberg, personal trainer

Supplements are worth it!

…Well, some of them are.

Regardless of your goal, it\’s best to save your money when confronted with any kind of \”superfood\” or \”miracle pill.” Follow these recommendations about three popular supplements, and you\’ll be able to choose wisely when working to improve your diet and health. Enjoy the puns!

Contrary to common belief, multivitamins may not be the beloved beacon of hope against staving off chronic and fatal diseases. A seminal 2013 editorial in the Annals of Internal Medicine strongly warned against this particular type of supplement, amassing research that showed multivitamins having no consistent positive effect in disease prevention. In fact, while taking a vitamin D supplement may have some benefits, adding a multivitamin to an already balanced diet can result in an overdose (hypervitaminosis), which has toxic effects on the body. As the Mayo Clinic puts it, try changing your diet for the better before considering taking a vitamin.

\"supplements\"If you don\’t have a milk allergy, whey protein is probably okay, especially if you are trying to gain lean mass, are very active, and cannot add more food protein sources to your diet. Now, the recommended daily intake of protein for the average adult is about forty-six to fifty-six grams, so if you go a bit above that, it\’s not a big deal. However, the Mayo Clinic advises against consuming excessive amounts of whey. When taken disregarding the manufacturer\’s guidelines, this particular protein has the potential to cause a host of deleterious problems, including but not limited to dehydration and even heavy metal toxicity. To sum up, protein powder can be beneficial, but don’t take more than is recommended.

Amino acid supplements may receive rave reviews, but their usefulness may be overstated. BCAAs (branch-chain amino acids) haven\’t been shown to have any effect on exercise performance. The only critical and unbiased review I was able to find claims that BCAAs do have a minor benefit, but only when taken in a fasted state. So unless you\’re an early bird when it comes to working out, save your money for protein powder instead!

Be A Little Better Everyday

Establishing positive daily habits is a powerful way to create long-lasting changes and improve your overall well-being. By incorporating these nine simple habits into your routine, you can positively impact your physical health, mental clarity, and personal growth. Let’s dive into these habits and explore the benefits they bring to your life.

One Hour of Exercise

Engaging in at least one hour of exercise daily helps boost your energy levels, promotes weight management, and strengthens your cardiovascular system. Regular exercise also releases endorphins, improving your mood and reducing stress. If you aren’t sure how to get started, hire a personal trainer.

Two Liters of Water

Staying properly hydrated by consuming two liters of water per day promotes healthy digestion, enhances cognitive function, and supports overall cellular health. Water also aids in flushing out toxins from your body and helps maintain healthy skin.

Three Cups of Tea

Drinking three cups of tea, such as green, herbal, or black tea, provides a host of benefits, including antioxidant protection, improved digestion, and enhanced immune function. Tea can also help relax the mind and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Four Colors on Your Plate

Including a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals ensures a broad range of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. The vibrant colors indicate the presence of beneficial phytochemicals, which help reduce inflammation, support a strong immune system, and promote optimal health.

Five Minutes of Meditation

Taking just five minutes each day to practice meditation can improve focus, reduce anxiety and stress, and promote emotional well-being. It allows you to cultivate mindfulness, gain mental clarity, and develop a sense of inner peace.

Six Songs that Motivate You

Listening to six motivational songs each day can uplift your mood, boost motivation, and provide a positive outlook. Music has the power to inspire, evoke emotions, and drive you towards achieving your goals.

Seven Minutes of Laughter

Laughter is indeed the best medicine. Devote seven minutes to engaging in activities that bring joy and laughter, whether it’s watching a funny video, spending time with loved ones, or reading jokes. Laughter reduces stress, enhances immune function, and improves overall well-being.

Eight Hours of Sleep

Getting a restful eight hours of sleep every night is crucial for your physical and mental health. Quality sleep supports brain function, promotes optimal hormone regulation, and aids in the body’s repair and recovery processes.

Read Nine Pages of a Book

Dedicating time to read nine pages of a book each day enhances knowledge, expands creativity, and improves cognitive abilities. Reading provides mental stimulation, reduces stress, and offers a valuable opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection. Incorporating these nine daily habits into your routine can lead to transformative changes in your life. From physical fitness and hydration to mental well-being and personal growth, each habit contributes to your overall health and happiness. Remember, change happens gradually, so start by incorporating one or two habits at a time and gradually build upon them. Embrace these habits as a lifestyle, and you’ll witness the positive impact they have on your well-being. Start today and embark on a journey towards a happier, healthier you.

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