A Supplemental Conundrum

It’s been over six years now since I stopped taking any supplements. By supplements, I mean the usual protein shake, fish oils, and multi vitamins, nothing more.

After dropping 150 pounds, I started learning about and getting into resistance training, weight lifting, and all the fun stuff. I bought into the idea of supplements and that they were supposedly essential in reaching my fitness goals, spending a pretty penny on them every month.

I’m not even actually sure if they helped me as my body dysmorphia doesn’t really allow me to see the details, but I went along with it because well of course they are key, we are told, but I did know that they made me feel bloated and uncomfortable. So eventually I decided to, you know, do my own thing and stop with the religious taking of supplements, and it seems that my results were as good as ever. Sometimes, though, I’ll buy a ‘grab and go’ shake to recuperate if I know I won’t be having anything to eat for a few hours after training.

A fellow gym goer the other day asked me about my macro and micro intake and he was like eggs = x amount of protein, protein shake = 25 grams of protein right there. When I stopped him and told him, I don’t usually drink protein shakes, he couldn’t believe it.

To be honest, I’m currently struggling with the idea of possibly going back to protein shakes because I don’t think I’m getting enough nutrition from the amount of food I manage to eat. Training for me is an important part of my life and continues to help me with everything in my life. I train hard and as often as I can. I don’t train for the physique as much as the other results, so I question the need for supplements. however, one might say that what I put my body through would require the help of supplements for recovery, progress, and overall physical health. Which brings me back to the question if I should reconsider taking the basic supplements to ensure I get enough nutrients and vitamins. What I do know is that if I do start drinking protein shakes again, it would have to be one that is clean and doesn’t make me feel worse than I do without it.

I’m not a qualified dietitian or fitness professional in any sense, and I’m not advising any one to take or not take supplements. However, I do believe that one should think for themselves, and do what works for them. But make sure to do your due diligence about the supplements you plan to take. Don’t just take your friend’s word for it. Research the supplement, and ask your dietitian or medical professional if the supplements are not only going to help you achieve your goals, but are also not a danger to your health. 

Opinions are of the author/creator and do not reflect that of LIFE ON FITNESS. All rights reserved by author/creator only.