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For those who exercise regularly, maximizing gains and other health outcomes are important goals to achieve. Where muscle gain is concerned, the primary aims for maximizing growth include:
- Ingest more calories than are burned.
- Consume more protein than is broken down.
- Use an exercise program that includes progressive overload.
In pursuit of these aims, dietary supplements can be a massive help. As a result, many people will often ask themselves (and others):
What workout supplements should I take?
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What Workout Supplements Should I Take for Muscle Growth?
There are a variety of great supplements that can aid in boosting muscle gains. However, it should be mentioned that remaining well hydrated is essential for transporting the nutrients your body needs for producing muscle.
Thus, while it is not listed below, you should strongly consider picking up a keto electrolyte powder for hydration and energy.
Some essential workout supplements include:
1. Whey
Whey is an easily digestible protein that should be consumed shortly after a workout to boost protein production in the body.
However, it is worth noting that there are many low-quality whey products on the market. Therefore, this is certainly one area of supplements where splurging on the fancy stuff is recommended.
2. Creatine
Creatine is an organic compound commonly found in red meat and fish and effective in boosting strength, muscle growth and athletic performance; hence, why it is such a popular supplement.
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In fact, many argue that creatine helps to build muscle and strength faster than any other form of workout supplement.
However, similar to whey, if you opt for the cheaper stuff, you are going to purchase an inferior product. Therefore, go for the higher-end creatine products to mix into smoothies and shakes with nutrient-dense fruits and veggies, a sugar-free electrolyte powder and other beneficial ingredients.
3. Fish Oil
Fish oil is a highly beneficial workout supplement, as it is high in omega-3 fats EPA and DHA. These compounds are incredibly helpful for reducing inflammation and muscle soreness.
However, these are just a couple of the many benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Taking this workout supplement will also help fight anxiety and depression, aid cognitive function, prevent cancer and even keep your hair and nails healthy.
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However, when shopping for a quality fish oil supplement, always check the label for saturated fat content.
4. BCAAs
Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are three essential amino acids that form the building blocks of protein.
When looking to build muscle, BCAAs are essential, as they come with a multitude of important benefits, including reduced soreness and fatigue, protection against muscle wasting and, of course, muscle growth.
While many high-quality whey supplements contain BCAAs, if yours does not, you will either want to pick up a different whey product, purchase some BCAAs or both.
5. Multivitamins
Many people do not get all of the vitamins and minerals that they require via their diet. Therefore, filling in the gaps with a quality multivitamin is a wise decision.
This means that not only do you want to purchase a top-tier multivitamin but find one that contains minerals as well.
By ensuring that you are getting all of the vitamins and minerals you need through your diet and supplementation, your body will be better equipped to absorb nutrients and maximize the effort that you can put out in the gym.
Getting the Right Dietary Supplements
While the question of “What workout supplements should I take?” might seem daunting at first, this should give you a solid foundation from which to build. Pick up the supplements listed above, and you are sure to see greater progress in your muscle growth and overall health.