Sports supplements always tempt us with the motto of more nutrients and extra energy. And the list of them is stretched to powders, gels, bars, drinks, and gums.
It is true that many of us have tried either one of them at least once in life. But have you ever thought like do we really need them? Or are they honestly good for health?
Contents
- 1 Do We Really Need Sports Supplements?
- 2 Pros
- 3 😊 Protein
- 4 😊 Creatine
- 5 😊 Vitamins
- 6 😊 Convenience
- 7 😊 Increased performance
- 8 Cons
- 9 😞 Risks on health
- 10 😞 They are not essential
- 11 😞 They are not alternatives to whole foods
- 12 😞 Contains Sugar and other additives
- 13 😞 The big business behind them
- 14 Final Verdict
Do We Really Need Sports Supplements?
Indeed, we can use these supplements to enhance ourselves as they can provide us with vital ingredients. But, can you say, how much is it healthy to have them by yourself or giving them to children?
So let’s have a look at what way, these supplements are beneficial first.
Pros
😊 Protein
Protein is essential, especially for muscle growth. Sports supplements are rich in protein, so they are packed with amino acids hugely.
Since protein is one of the most needed nutrients for athletes, fitness lovers as well as bodybuilders, they go after sports supplements. To meet their protein needs, they will only need to add protein powders or tablets to their usual routine.
What these protein-rich supplements do to older athletes is notable. In this way, they are able to meet their daily needs of protein to maintain their muscle mass.
😊 Creatine
Creatine is a great source of energy boosters. As energy is most required by athletes and strength trainers, they consume it by mixing it with a glass of water in the morning.
Whoever consumes it, can enjoy the benefit of instant energy, as they can work out and do physical activities with much effort.
😊 Vitamins
Vitamins are necessary for all. If anybody has a deficiency of any vitamin, they can prefer a supplement rich with the particular vitamin. In that way, they can beat the deficiency and be healthier.
😊 Convenience
As everyone is having a busy life, including athletes and fitness lovers, it is more convenient for them to have protein shakes made with protein powder or any other sports supplements.
😊 Increased performance
As they provide you with instant energy, you will be more comfortable in your all-around performance. Other benefits of sports supplements include more stamina, increased strength, muscle recovery, good blood flow, and enhanced muscle mass.
Cons
😞 Risks on health
Some manufacturers ignore the rules of the international standardization process and prepare their products. Any such products are considered illegal and they are risky to consume as they can bring disastrous results.
😞 They are not essential
To get enough protein or other nutrients, you don’t have to choose any supplement. Some nutrient-rich food can help you to beat your needs.
In the case of protein, there are a lot of protein-rich natural foods you can fetch from a grocery store that are healthy. They include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, lentils, legumes, beans, and nuts.
😞 They are not alternatives to whole foods
Sometimes, an athlete replaces real food with supplements. Because of this, he may not be able to get all the other nutrients that are also essential for them. If they are blindly trusted, athletes tend to pay less attention to their diet.
😞 Contains Sugar and other additives
Since the manufacturers need you to buy his product often, they try to make it delicious. The awful taste of protein isolates is reduced with flavours and sugar additives. So what is the difference between having them and a slice of creamy cake?
😞 The big business behind them
When we turn on the TV, it is certain that at least once in a while an attractive commercial appears on sports supplements. The companies create compelling marketing campaigns just for their benefits.
It is quite shocking that most of their claims are deceptive, and most of the ingredients in them could lead you to serious health conditions.
Final Verdict
Not all sports supplements are worthy of trust. As the industry of sports supplements beckons with their promises of better performance, it passively forces you to fall into their trap.
Most of them could give you additional nutrition to support you in your venture to reach the ideal fitness goals. But the additives and flavouring agents in many others can bring adverse effects too.
You need a sports supplement if you are following intense training. You can take them before your workout, as it would help you to have the needed focus, energy, and better performance.
An intro workout drink to furnish your muscles with needed amino acids to reduce muscle breakdown and proteins to muscle build-up. Having it after a workout would enhance muscle recovery and muscle synthesis.
Whenever you choose a sports supplement, ensure that it works as claimed. Even if you find one that you can trust to consume, it could be expensive. So it is always preferable to take nutritious whole foods, as they are affordable and natural.
