Supplement or not to supplement, is that your question?

Another frequent question is whether or not the use supplements is required for a healthy lifestyle, and which supplements are worth using?

itsallaboutfitness.com © 2014

As the name suggests, supplements are an addition to something, in this case we're talking about nutrition.  Therefore, the first thing I will tell you is that no supplement can replace a poor diet, insufficient exercise or rest.

Having said that however, vitamins, minerals, and a few other supplements could help when your diet is lacking in some departments. 

So, for example if your diet is not rich in fruit and vegetables, then perhaps it's worth considering a good vitamin and mineral supplement to reach your body's daily requirements. If you're a vegetarian or a vegan, then chances are your protein intake is on the low side, and that's where a protein supplement can be useful.  Make sure to never exceed the recommended dosage, as this is not a case of more is better. In fact studies have shown that excess vitamins and minerals can have a reverse effect.

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) depends on gender, age and body-weight, however you'll find an RDA on the label of each FDA approved vitamin, mineral and any other supplement, which you can use as a guideline. These are always within safe parameters, so unless you've done some research I would suggest going slightly lower than what's recommended on the label and increasing the dosage gradually.

itsallaboutfitness.com © 2014

If you recently walked into a health store you'll most likely be overwhelmed by the amount of supplements available today. Now although most stores have very clear sections indicating what each of their supplements are used for, I don't suggest you just enter and browse the shelves unless you know exactly what you need. The reason is that you will find many variations or even combinations of the same thing, so it's important to understand their functions. Here are just three basic supplements which I believe could be of benefit to almost anyone.   

1. B complex vitamins primarily aid in the metabolism of carbohydrates and generation of energy.

2. Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant which supports the immune system.

3. Cod liver oil contains high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which lowers cholesterol and helps to prevent arthritis amongst other benefits. Cod liver oil also contains vitamins A (also supports the immune system and sight) and D (which assists in the digestion of minerals).