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Fitness supplements for women

If you’re part of the dieting and exercise world, you can’t avoid the banter about nutritional supplements. Advertisements and headlines are everywhere you turn, especially if you’re fond of fitness magazines and watching television. These days, who isn’t? There are so many fitness supplements advertised for women that are said to help you lose weight, or help you gain muscle, or keep you feeling fuller longer, or allowing you not to even have to work out to lose weight. The “or’s” are endless. In all the confusion, no one is really telling you what actually works. This article is meant to filter out the junk and promote the good.

First of All…
…It is important to note that supplements should only be taken on an “as needed” basis. First and foremost, you should be trying to get all of the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals through a sound diet every day. But, I’m not so naïve as to believe this is easy. Also, many people like to have that extra edge so they can be stronger and leaner. Then, and only then, can you turn to supplements if your diet is lacking in a couple of areas. If you do turn to a supplement, don’t expect it to work wonders if you aren’t doing any additional work. Supplements do no more than the name implies; they complement the diet with vitamins, minerals, or nutrients in which it is lacking. They are not a substitute. Also, since supplements are not completely natural, some side effects, however mild, may occur. If this route is not taken, you will be side-effect-free and on a road to optimum fitness and at a healthy weight the au naturel way. If you’re seriously considering taking a nutritional supplement, talk with your doctor or a Registered Dietitian to get his or her advice on the matter. Don’t ever do anything just because of what an enticing ad says.

For Women
There are many supplements marketed and targeted toward women. Unfortunately, none of these supplements are strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); therefore, they may contain more ingredients than the label admits to, or they may contain fewer ingredients than those listed. Either way, you never really know what you’re getting. Some supplements, however, have been geared to help women with their fitness woes. They include:

• Creatine—this supplement can be used by both men and women, but the formulas are slightly different. The specially designed one for females, called Femme Advantage Creatine, supposedly has fewer side effects associated with it.
• Vitamin B—there are a variety of B vitamins, all contributing to a different bodily function. Overall, they help the body properly metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
• Calcium Supplements—calcium is essential for proper growth and functioning of the bones.
• Essential Amino Acids—these are very beneficial because they provide a variety of health benefits: production of energy, carries oxygen throughout the blood stream, reduces water retention, has a calming effect, and helps the body metabolize triglycerides and cholesterol.
• Protein Supplements—protein is essential as a building block for not only muscle tissues, but other tissues as well. Protein supplements are available in different forms: whey, egg whites, casein, and soy.
• Meal Replacements—meal bars and drink mixes fall into this category. They are generally high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates.

Proper Balance
Regardless of the supplement you and your healthcare provider decide is right for you, it is imperative to keep up with healthy eating habits and exercise. Without these things, the supplements will be worthless and not be near as useful as they are promoted to be.

Last updated on Oct 19th, 2010 and filed under Women's Health. Both comments and pings are currently closed.