“What supplements do you use?!” I get this question a lot, so instead of individually e-mailing everyone, I thought I would just write this blog post. As many of you know, working out and health are very important to me and a big part of my life. My favorite days are the ones where I get to be active all day long and make healthy choices! It hasn’t always been like this, but ever since starting my health and fitness journey, I can’t imagine a better way to live. When I make healthy choices, it not only positively affects my body composition, but it also helps boost my mood, clear up my skin, and makes me feel SO MUCH BETTER emotionally, physically, and mentally.
If you have been wanting to try some supplements out, I would highly recommend these products. Not only am I a part of this family/team, but I really do LOVE their products. I have tested out a ton of different brands and this one is hands-down my favorite. I used to buy most of my supplements at GNC, Total Nutrition, or Academy…but to be honest, none of them were that great. Don’t get me wrong, they weren’t terrible; however, these products are such better quality and aid in your goals so much better. What’s the point in spending so much money on supplements that aren’t made out of the best ingredients?!
What Products to use?!
I have used a ton of different workout and nutrition supplements. I have used fish oil, multi vitamins, BCAAs, protein powders, L-Carnitine, CLA, Fat burners, pre workouts…. you name it, I’ve tried it. After testing out so many products, I am now able to know which ones are a NEED and which ones are a great tool to use…but not necessary.
Necessities
Protein Powders
I love a good protein shake. You really need to do your research on the protein powders that you use though! There are so many products on the shelves right now that make you believe one thing…but aren’t that credible. Look at the nutrition and ingredients.
There are also TWO DIFFERENT kinds of protein powders that offer different results and for different times of the day/purposes. What you eat right after you workout is CRUCIAL. I used to never think about this; I just thought that you should eat something (usually with protein) after a workout. No wonder I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted to see! It is super important to have a fast acting protein powder after your workout. One that will replenish the muscles that you used in your workout. Because this is a fast acting protein, you WILL be hungry in about 30 minutes..and that is good! Have your protein shake after your workout (aim for that 30 minute window), then eat a nutritional meal when you are hungry again. I make this protein shake. My favorite flavor right now is the Vanilla Milkshake (it tastes like ice cream!!), but I really want to try the new flavor of Mint Chocolate Chip. YUM. All I do is add ice and almond milk. So good.
The other protein powder I use is this one. It serves as more of a meal replacement/snack. I have the caramel latte one and I LOVE it. It tastes like a caramel frap from Starbucks..but so much better for you! I also really want to try the ice cream sandwich flavor….yumm! All I do is add almond milk and ice. Sometimes I will also add spinach just to up my greens for the day!
BCAAs
Branch Chain Amino Acids. These are my go-to product for honesty everything. I have tried a number of BCAAs. I have tried almost every brand at GNC & Academy (including Xtend) as well as 1UP Nutrition. This is by far my favorite! The consistency is so smooth and the flavor is amazing. I currently have the Blue Raspberry flavor. Love it!
BCAAs are beneficial for so many things; they help restore muscle growth, improve endurance, and fight muscle soreness. I feel like I am never sore…and I workout A TON and hard y’all. I drink BCAAs during my workout. Sometimes if I am trying to fight a sweet tooth, I will sip on these too. These are also great if you are Intermittent Fasting because they don’t break your fast. WIN-WIN if you ask me.
Pre-Workout
This is another essential for me because I like to workout in the morning. Some days I don’t need a pre-workout…but others I am like a zombie and NEED some energy. I have, again, tested so many different pre-workout brands. I used to love C4 and Cardio Cuts, but ever since trying this pre-workout, I could never go back! It gives me the right amount of energy without leaving me feeling like my body is going to burst or my heart is going to jump out of my body. Having the shakes while you workout is THE WORST FEELING. Also… I only need half a scoop for a good pump. So this one box lasts me a very long time. I highly recommend this product if you are looking for a good tasting, great energy boost for your workouts.
Other Nice Supplements
These next few supplements are great, but not an essential for me. I try to get most of my nutrition from RAW sources, like vegetables, fruits, proteins….you know the drill. It is important for a healthy lifestyle to get your nutrition and vitamins in! If you are looking for a good multivitamin, check out this one. All the right amount of vitamins.
Sometimes I will also use a fat burner if I am trying to get in tip-top shape. Pairing a good fat burner with an exceptional workout regime and good nutrition will really speed up your results. HOWEVER, a fat burner is not on my necessities list because nothing will work if you don’t have your nutrition on point. You can’t take a magic pill and be healthy. Fat burners are great to pair with a good diet, but not to be in replace of one. If you are looking for a good fat burner, I would suggest this one!
What are some of your supplement necessities? I really hope this post was helpful. I know it can be extremely daunting going to your local supplement store or doing your research online and having no idea what to buy. Again, my necessities would be a good protein powder, BCAAs, and a pre-workout. Other than that, get your vitamins in, eat a healthy and balanced diet, and work hard! You’ve got this!
If you have any additional questions, please e-mail me at TheGlamorousTeacher@gmail.com . I would love to chat more about these products, fitness plans, and anything in between.
Let’s go crush our fitness goals!
