I get so many questions about supplements. And I don't blame you for asking... There are so many products out there.
I'm going to share with you what I take/use, and why.
PROTEIN:
1. Whey
This is a staple in my nutrition. Contest prep, off season... I always use whey. It it also one of the supplements I recommend to all of my clients. The reason for this is because protein is the hardest macro for people to get enough of. Plus it is a great emergency meal. I also find that the sweet flavors help with cravings.
Favorite whey at the moment is Animal (Chocolate chocolate chip, Salted caramel, and Frank's birthday cake).
2. Casein
Casein is great before bed! It is a slower digesting protein. Therefore it feeds your body as you sleep. Occasionally I'll use casein if I have to get up SUPER early for a flight or something. That way I am "eating" breakfast, and it will keep me satisfied for a while. I like to make protein pudding with casein! I do a scoop with about a tablespoon of nut butter, and enough water to make a pudding consistency. SO GOOD!
(Currently using Labrada, chocolate flavor)
*Both proteins from bodybuilding.com
BCAAs/AMINOS:
Aminos are a life savor! Especially when you are dieting. They make your water taste so yummy! Aminos reduce the rate of protein breakdown. They also help with craving; and if you use Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy.. Then you get some caffeine too! I love to drink them in the morning after cardio, and during my workouts.
(Currently using Amino Energy, watermelon flavor)
*From bodybuilding.com
GLUTAMINE:
I take glutamine because it assists the body with recovery. I put one serving of glutamine in my BCAAs, which I drink during my workout.
Other benefits:
-Prevents your muscle from being "eaten up"
-May serve to boost your immune system
-Important nutrient for your intestines
*From bodybuilding.com
I was introduced to papaya enzymes during contest prep. Due to the low food intake I was having a hard time going to the bathroom (sorry for the tmi.. LOL). These definitely helped with my digestion. I take 3 chewable tabs a day. One with meal one, three, and seven.
*From Vitamin Shoppe
DIM:
Dim! This is a miracle supplement! I was introduced to it by my coach, Jason Theobald. I take dim because I hold a lot of weight around my legs and butt.
Benefits:
-Helps remove excess levels of estrogen
-Helps avoid mood swings
-Good for people with high cholesterol
*From nattynutrition.com
NA-R-ALA:
I take this about 15-20 mins before a carb meal. It is a glucose disposal agent. It speeds the removal of glucose (sugar) from the blood. Na-r-ala also helps ensure the ingested carbs will be used as fuel, and not stored as far.
*From bodybuilding.com
*Slin-trol MAX is also a great glucose disposal agent from nattynutrition.com
METAMUCIL:
This right here is my favorite!!! I started taking Metamucil when I started competing in "bodybuilding" shows. It is fiber. And we all know what fiber makes you do. I take it at night with my protein pudding. I like to mix two teaspoons of Metamucil with just enough water to make it like a apple sauce/jello consistency.
*From Walmart or Target (or any store similar to that)
These are my must-have supplements! Let me know which ones you try, and how you feel afterwards :)