Are Supplements Worth It?
- The protein argument examined
- * Do you really need it?
Over the past weekend, I caught a programme that was quite informative and covered the issue of protein supplementation.
Despite the fact that it didn’t really teach me anything new, it reaffirmed my beliefs at RYPT.
The show was based around anecdotal evidence of protein use and in particular one individual who gave up protein for 6 weeks
Through examining uses of protein and consumption levels, it became clear that the behavioural factors were more important than actual evidence.
Over the six weeks, the guy in question gained over a kilogram of lean muscle (without using protein) and focusing on diet, yet he decided after the trial to return to protein because it seemed like the done thing to do.
The other emphasis was on the absurd proportions of consumption. The guy in question had no idea of portions and was simply guessing how much to consume. His levels (over 150 grams of protein per day and mainly through shakes) are askew. It’s not difficult to see why protein is the fastest growing industry in the UK.
The approach of supplements first is back to front in my opinion. The primary consideration should be food then supplements (as cliched as it is). Get the basics and then look to build. It’s a massive waste of money to use these as the building block for your fitness goals – nutrition is vital first and foremost.
Supplementation is not cheap and you will waste a lot of hard earned money if you don’t do it right. It does prey on naivety and isn’t guaranteed to work (unlike many of the claims). In my opinion a lot of the advertising is unethical with how it treats people.
My advice is turn to www.examine.com for all the facts and proof on each supplement.
The other issue was the time factor.
Protein shakes are seen as an easy way to get nutrition on the go in a hectic modern lifestyle and there is some validity in this.
Personally, I’ve reduced my intake of protein shakes (but still have the bars) in favour of preparing my nutrition more and choosing better quality protein. This makes a massive difference to your overall energy throughout the day especially if you have a late training session like I tend to do.
Yes, it’s the trade off between time and money but putting yourself first (especially when it comes to what you feed yourself) should be a priority. Don’t settle for less than the best: as a colleague of mine used to say: “if you want to be at peak performance you wouldn’t put cheap fuel in a Ferrari.”
Always seek professional guidance before splashing money out (especially if it’s free like RYPT).
Ross
