Athletes who train regularly for hours on end have special nutritional requirements over the average person, in which protein is probably at the top of the list to keep muscle and strength at its highest. Protein is the cornerstone of bodybuilding because it helps your body repair the damaged muscle tissues and prevents muscle breakdown. While vegan athletes can get protein in their diet from many different sources such as tofu, almonds, whole grains, vegetables, lentils, chickpeas, and peanuts, sometimes you need more convenient and easier sources just to bump up the intake.

The best protein for vegan athletes an be found in many forms. Protein can be found in many foods but as supplements it can help bridge the gap making it easier and more convenient to get in those calories and fuel your body for optimal performance. Here are some of the top protein sources you can try as a vegan athlete.

Why should athletes buy protein supplements?

The number one reason to buy supplements is to give your body the required amount of protein, which natural food items may not do or we may just not have the means to get enough in with our schedules. You can get this essential nutrient from food items like beans, lentils, chick peas, tofu, quinoa, pulses, oats, chia seeds, and brown rice. Supplements help you meet any gaps and do so effectively and conveniently. The specific amount of protein varies between athletes, depending on factors like body size, hours of training, and body composition. 

Plant-based protein sources are the best option because they help you build muscles, enhance recovery between sessions, maintain a healthy heart, and keep your cardiovascular health in good condition.

Vegan protein powder 

There are various plant based protein powders, which contain purely plant products like watermelon seeds, brown rice, hemp seeds, green or yellow peas, and soy-isolate. Some have a combination of these substances. Below are some subtypes you can choose from.

Pure rice protein 

Rice protein is an excellent alternative to whey protein and provide the same results, made from rice. These usually contain substances like natural flavors, organic vanilla flavor, guar gum, and syrup solids.

Yellow pea protein

Pea protein is a high-quality plant-based supplement that fulfills your nutritional requirements. Extracted from yellow peas, they are nutritious and contain high protein and essential amino acids like valine, lysine, and leucine.

You can use it for smoothies and shakes. Many vegan athletes prefer this product because it is hypoallergenic and carries a low chance of causing allergic reactions. If you’re on a low-carb diet, this is ideal for you as it has +-0 grams of carbohydrates.

Besides supplying your body with the essential nutrients it requires, this protein powder also helps you increase muscle mass if you work out regularly. A study conducted to determine its efficiency found that pea protein powder builds mass at the same rate as dairy-based protein powders.

Organic hemp

Hemp protein is extracted from the cannabis plant by cold-pressing hemp seeds. Unlike other marijuana products, it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects. Besides protein, it has 22 essential amino acids that repair muscles and improve cognition. You must choose these while looking to lose weight and looking for low-fat products. Unlike animal proteins, it doesn’t contain cholesterol or saturated fats.

What flavors are available?

Nowadays there are many different flavors to choose from, like banana, vanilla, dark chocolate, red velvet cake, or strawberry. If you like your drink flavorless, you can choose an unflavored product and mix it in with smoothies to create your own flavours.

Protein Bars

Protein bars are an alternative to powders and are suitable when you need a quick boost. You will find these extremely helpful when you cannot mix shakes or for when you just feel like a more filling option or as a little treat. 

Each bar usually contains about 21 grams of protein and can come in various delicious flavours such as dark chocolate, chocolate chips, coconut almond butter, peanut butter, and fudge brownie. They contain ingredients like organic almond butter, brown rice syrup, organic protein blend, walnuts, sunflower seeds, coconut sugar, and cinnamon. Be careful though as many do also contain excess ingredients that may not be organic nd could potentially be harmful to you. Be sure to read the ingredient list.

Pre-mixed shakes

Pre-mixed shakes are another option you can choose from as an athlete on a plant-based diet. They are easy to use, convenient, and easily digestible. You can choose from various flavors, including vanilla, dark chocolate, and classic chocolate. Most of the shakes contain about 20 grams of protein. Before buying a shake for yourself, you should read the ingredients and nutritional information on the label to check the calorie content as some may use coconut milk, which may be higher in calories.

The shakes contain ingredients like pea protein, pumpkin seeds, water, sunflower oil, cocoa powder, pink salt, guar gum, and greens. 

Things to check before buying

You should read the labels carefully to confirm whether the product contains ingredients derived from animals like collagen or gelatin. Has the manufacturer mentioned the ingredients and amount per serving? 

Ensuring your nutrition is on point and your protein requirements are met will help to improve athletic performance, help repair muscle , enable faster recovery, repair tissues, and strengthen your immune system. When you combine these with a good diet and workout regiment, you are on your way to success. 

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This review looks at a vegan pea protein powder, more specifically the Youthful Living Vegan Keto Protein shake. 

Protein shakes are a great way to add to your daily intake of calories, and add just what you need. There is no need to overdo it on the protein, but sometimes we may find ourselves needing a little extra, especially on days where we may have trained a lot harder than usual for instance. 

“Youthful Living Vegan Keto shake is a plant-based, meal replacement shake designed to cater for anyone following a ketogenic diet, or looking for a healthy plant-based nutritional supplement.

The plant protein sources used in Youthful Living Vegan Keto shake are hypo-allergenic, making this suitable for Vegans, and anyone with food intolerances. The benefit of using plant-based protein is that this is naturally a cleaner protein source made without artificial chemicals. With added MCT oil powder, this shake is packed with healthy fats making this ideal for Ketosis.

Those on a ketogenic diet or anyone looking for a high protein meal replacement will appreciate the low glycemic load, and the balanced ratios of protein, fats (with added MCT oils),  and carbohydrates in order to maintain ketosis and provide wholesome nutrition.”

• Keto-Friendly – with MCT oil powder.
• Vegan friendly
• No added sugar
• High protein
• High in fiber
• Naturally sweetened with stevia

I have tried many flavored plant based protein powders, and have found it difficult finding ones that actually taste good and have no awful aftertaste or pea taste. After many years of using unflavored raw pea protein, which I add to smoothies, I decided to venture out and try a new one.

I bought the Youthful Living Vegan Protein Powder, and I am happy to say that it tastes great and has no after taste or no taste whatsoever of peas. Lets take a deeper look at it.

Flavors and Sizes

The protein powder is available in 625 grams and comes in 3 flavours, Cafe Mocha, Coconut Dream, Dark Chocolate. I tried the Cafe Mocha.

Mixes

The protein powder is quite fine, and mixes well with no lumps or bubbles at all. It mixed well with both water and Almond/Oat milk, and mixes very well in a blender when added to a smoothie.

Taste

In terms of the taste, I really like it. There is no after taste, or for example, with some pea protein powders, I could still sense a ‘pea’ taste within the added flavour. I also like the fact that it is sweetened with stevia, and for me I like that it is not really that sweet at all.

I personally like to add some cacao powder to mine and add just a bit of water to mix it into a kind of protein pudding!

Protein content

This is the part that I was most concerned with, the PROTEIN and nutritional values.

It has a relatively decent nutritional profile, carrying about 60 grams of protein per 100 grams of powder.
Per serving (1 heaped tablespoon = 25 grams) it comes down to 15 grams of protein, which is not a lot but is sufficient for one serving.

Extra Nutritional values

The extra nutritional values are just as important as the protein content.

The carbohydrate content is just about 3 grams per 100 grams while the fat content is at 10.8 grams per 100 grams (most coming from MCTs by the looks of it).

It has no added ingredients or preservatives or artificial sweeteners.

Affordability

The 625 gram tub costs ZAR 350 (in Dischem) giving you 25 servings per tub, that’s just over ZAR 14 per shake!

Final Thoughts

I really do like this vegan powder powder. It ticks a lot of boxes for me, in terms of the following:

• Taste (no after taste and great tasting flavour, finally!).
• Easy to mix.
• More environmentally friendly, being plant based.

If you are looking for a great tasting vegan protein shake, be sure to give this protein powder a try! And if you know if other great tasting vegan protein shakes please do let me know!

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Protein is a daily requirement for our bodies. Different people take protein powders for various purposes according to their lifestyles. Some people take it for nutritional fulfillment, while others consume it to specifically build muscle mass. There are many variants of protein powders with different ingredients composition and different impacts.

Here are some of the various types of protein powders and their benefits.

1 Whey protein powder

Whey is a powder derived from milk, and it is the most common type of protein powder, especially amongst bodybuilders. Whey protein contains a high amount of amino acids, making it a rich source of protein for bodybuilders and other people who want to build muscle mass. It also contains lactose, that is converted to glucose as energy for our body. Whey protein powder helps build muscle mass and maintain fat levels, when used as part of a training programme. It is pretty simple to use whey protein powder because you can use it directly in your diet as a protein shake or in smoothies or even mix it with other foods like oats, fruits, and many other foods. It is amongst the purest forms of proteins, and it’s easily digestible, but remember it is not vegan.

2 Casein Protein Powder

Casein protein powder is also commonly used in the bodybuilding world. It is also known as milk protein powder. Casein has got all the essential amino acids and is easily digestible but has been shown to have a somewhat slow-release effect, making it perfect for people who want to build muscle mass by taking it between meals or at night. It may be suitable for people with some allergies as it contains very little lactose. Casein protein powder is also not vegan.

3 Pea Protein Powder

Pea protein powder is a form of protein that is very commonly used among vegans. Pea protein is also the ideal option for lactose intolerant people or people with dairy product allergies. It is high in protein, just as high as many whey protein powders and have Optimum Nutrition necessary to build muscle effectively. Some have a slight aftertaste, especially when artificially flavored, so try opt for unflavored ones that you can add to smoothies for example.

4 Soy Protein Powder

Soy protein powder is another form of protein that is very commonly used among bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts, especially many who are vegan or who are lactose intolerant. It also has a lot of benefits, and it can help maintain lean muscle mass and reduce the risk of heart when used in conjunction with a good nutritional plan and exercise routine. It can help maintain weight loss and reduces cholesterol levels by lowering LDL cholesterol levels in our bodies.

5 Flaxseed Protein Powder

Flaxseed protein powder is another form of protein that vegans and fitness enthusiasts commonly use. Flaxseed powder contains all the essential amino acids needed in your body, and is easily digestible. It helps maintain weight loss and reduces cholesterol levels by lowering LDL cholesterol levels in our bodies.

The advantage of flaxseed powder over other proteins is that it has more fiber content than other proteins, so it keeps you full for a longer time. This fiber content helps regulate your blood sugar levels and in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

There are many types of protein powders available on the market, make sure that you have chosen one that is suitable for you and your body as well as within your budget. Many powders now also contain added fillers and ingredients such as artificial sweeteners and more, so remember to do your research and check the nutritional profile of each to ensure this is minimized. Also remember that these protein powders are just supplements, and only work when used in conjunction with a good nutritional plan and exercise routine.

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There are many nutrients that are essential for health and wellness. While a balanced diet typically provides vital vitamins and minerals that support regular bodily processes, deficiencies aren’t uncommon.

Here are the 6 most common vitamin deficiencies and the symptoms to look out for.

1. Iron Deficiency

Iron is an essential component of red blood cells, binding with hemoglobin and transporting oxygen to cells throughout the body. Non-heme iron is the most common type of iron, found in both animal and plant foods, but it’s more challenging for the body to absorb it compared with heme iron. Heme iron is found in high amounts in red meat, which means that vegetarians and vegans are particularly at risk for developing iron deficiency.

Deficiency occurs in meat-eaters, too. In fact, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide, affecting about one-quarter of the population around the globe. Some symptoms of deficiency include:

• Tiredness and weakness
• Weakened immune function
• Impaired brain function

2. Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium is critical for healthy bone and teeth structure, but close to three-fourths of all adults in the U.S. consume less than the required daily amount. In fact, this nutrient is required by almost every cell in the body, regulating muscle function, heart rhythm and more. 

The body can’t make magnesium, so you need to get it from your diet. Adequate sources of magnesium include almonds, spinach, broccoli and whole-grain bread. Most modern diets are low in magnesium-rich foods—if you’re concerned about your magnesium levels, look for:

• Muscle twitches, tremors and cramps
• Osteoporosis
• Mood disorders

3. Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D gets its nickname, the “Sunshine Vitamin,” because it’s produced from cholesterol in your skin during exposure to sunlight. This fat-soluble vitamin travels through the blood stream and into cells, supporting healthy bones and muscles, as well as energy production. 

People who live in cooler climates, particularly those without abundant sunshine, are most at-risk for vitamin D deficiency. It’s estimated that 95% of all adults in the United States don’t get enough of this vitamin, and as many as 50% of these individuals qualify as D-deficient. If you suspect you may be vitamin D deficient, look for the following symptoms:

• Muscle and bone weakness or pain
• Increased risk of fractures
• Mood disorders

4. Vitamin E Deficiency

Vitamin E prevents free radicals from harming (or even killing) otherwise healthy cells. While research is ongoing, studies show that maintaining appropriate vitamin E levels prevents oxidative stress from damaging cells throughout the body. Since oxidative stress is linked to cancer, diabetes, heart disease and a whole host of conditions, getting enough vitamin E in your diet—whether from whole foods like nuts, pressed oils and leafy greens, or from supplements—is critical. 

While very few people are clinically deficient in vitamin E, many people aren’t getting the recommended daily amount of 15mg. If you feel you might not be getting enough vitamin E, look for symptoms like:

• Nerve and muscle damage resulting in loss of feeling in arms and legs
• Vision problems
• Weakened immune system

5. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Also known as cobalamin, this water-soluble vitamin plays a role in blood formation, brain function and nerve function. Every cell throughout the body needs B12 to function normally—unfortunately, the body is unable to produce it. Making matters even more difficult, B12 is only found in sufficient amounts in animal foods, so vegetarians and vegans may be B12 deficient. 

The elderly are also at risk of B12 deficiency, since absorption decreases with age. People lacking in intrinsic factor protein are also at risk of deficiency since it’s an essential nutrient for B12 absorption. Here’s what to look out for:

• Megoblastic anemia, a blood disorder that enlarges red blood cells
• Impaired brain function
• Muscle weakness, decreased appetite, nausea and weight loss

6. Calcium Deficiency

Like B12, calcium is an essential nutrient for every cell in the body. It’s well-known for strengthening bones and teeth, but it also serves as a signaling molecule, aiding heart, muscle and nerve function. Calcium levels in the blood are tightly regulated, and all excess is stored in bones. If you’re deficient, your bones will release calcium, making them softer and more fragile in the process (osteoporosis).

A majority of adults around the world don’t receive their recommended calcium intake each day. Many leafy green vegetables should be included in ones diet for greater calcium intake. Here are signs you may need more calcium:

• Osteoporosis (in older adults)
• Soft bones, or rickets (in children)
• Muscle cramps and spasms

Supplements And Diet Can Help Address Vitamin Deficiencies

Worried that you’re not getting enough of the essential nutrients your body needs to maintain good health? Adjusting your diet can help, but it may still often be difficult to maintain adequate vitamin levels. Remember to firstly include a wide range of vegetables and fruits to ensure you are getting the various vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

Supplementing can be a safe, effective solution. Always consult a doctor before taking a supplement to determine whether it’s right for you and choose the supplements wisely. The common deficiencies listed above have a direct impact on your overall health. Talk to your doctor today to make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need to live a happier, healthier life.

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However, when it comes to vegan options there are a few misconceptions. A lot of people think vegan protein doesn’t have a full amino acid profile or is quite inferior to other types, this is where Pea Protein steps in!

What is pea protein?

Pea protein powder is a high-quality protein and is made by taking the protein from yellow peas that are dried and then ground into flour. But their journey doesn’t stop there; water is added to the flour to remove most of the starch and fiber and is then dried again. This leaves a concentrated protein powder, also known as pea protein isolate.

What are some of the benefits?

1. Pea protein has many benefits, the first one being it is a high-quality protein. It contains all 9 essential amino acids, which we have to get from food as our body can’t create them. It is also a great source of branched chained amino acids (BCAAs). This consists of arginine, which encourages healthy blood flow and heart health as well as leucine, isoleucine, and valine which aids muscle growth.
2. Pea protein is plant-based and cruelty-free making it perfect for those on a vegan diet because finding a protein powder that fits in with your dietary requirements can be difficult. It doesn’t consist of any of the top eight food allergens, which are peanuts, eggs, fish, tree nuts, shellfish, cow’s milk, wheat, and soy making it accessible to people on most diets as it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
3. When it comes to building muscle the most common option tends to be whey protein powder due to it being high in branched-chain amino acids however, pea protein is very similar. So much so that a study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition and Sports discovered no difference in muscle gains when comparing pea protein with whey.
4. Pea protein can lower the risk factors for heart diseases, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, as animal studies have found. This works by increasing the absorption of cholesterol into cells and decreasing the body’s production of fats. Also, it’s a rich source of iron as it contains 25%-30% of an adult’s recommended daily intake. Iron is vital for the flow of blood and oxygen and is important for metabolism.
5. Adding pea protein to your diet can leave you feeling full with the tools your body needs to build muscle! Whether you’re wanting to control your appetite so you don’t reach for a chocolate bar or to help you lose weight, pea protein can help!

When eaten with a balanced diet it can help you to lose weight and feel healthier, as it is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. We all know how it feels when your body is telling you it wants to snack and it can be hard to stick to a diet. This is because of a hormone called Ghrelin, also known as the “hunger hormone” and is produced by the stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and brain. It is shown that when released into the bloodstream it can increase food intake by up to 30%. However, ghrelin’s job isn’t to just make you hungry, it prompts the release of the growth hormones. These growth hormones break down fat tissue and build muscle.

How do I use it?

There are many ways to add pea protein into your diet. You can simply add it into what you typically already make such as shakes, porridge, yogurt bowls, overnight oats, or smoothies. You could even get a bit creative and add it to baked foods such as muffins, brownies, waffles, etc. to increase the nutrient value.

Final Thoughts

Pea protein is a great alternative to other protein powders as it is very easy to add to any diet due to it being vegan and not containing any of the top 8 allergens. Many recipes show you how you can add pea protein into your diet and don’t be put off by how you think it may taste, as it’s mild in flavour. Some flavoured brands may not taste great but there also many place to buy unflavored pea protein.

It’s not only good for you but is also good for the environment. Agriculture is one of the major factors that contribute to greenhouse gases. The production of animal protein sources has higher greenhouse gas emissions than the production of plant protein sources. It’s just as important that we look after ourselves as well as our planet.
 

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A pre-workout refers to any supplement, typically a powdered drink mix that claims to improve exercise performance when consumed in advance. Many individuals find it hard to get and stay active. Lack of energy is a major reason. To acquire an extra lift of energy during exercise, most people take a supplement before training.

However, there are many supplements available, each of which has many ingredients. So knowing what to look for in a pre-workout supplement can be confusing. Here are six ingredients to look for in your pre-workout and their benefits.

1. Caffeine

Caffeine refers to a natural molecule that you can find in tea, coffee, and other beverages and foods. It stimulates specific brain organs to increase alertness and reduce fatigue. It’s also a common element in pre-workout supplements such as cellucor. Caffeine is efficient in improving various gym performance features and can boost the ability to generate energy quickly. This is applicable in multiple types of exercises, including weight training, sprinting, and cycling.

Caffeine can cause a short-term rise in blood pressure and increase restlessness; however it does not normally cause an unbalanced heartbeat also called an arrhythmia, unless possibly taken in extreme excess amounts. Individuals react differently to different amounts of caffeine, so it’s probably advisable to start with a small dose to check how you respond. It might also be good to limit your caffeine intake early in the day because of its anti-sleep side-effects.

2. Creatine

Creatine refers to a molecule located in your cells. It is also a common dietary supplement. Creatine is considered by the majority of sports scientists to be a supplement for increasing power and strength. It safely increases muscle strength, mass and gym performance. In case your muscles have more vigor when you workout, you can perform better and encounter greater enhancements over time. If your goal is to increase muscle strength, this could be the supplement for you.

3. Beta-alanine

Beta-alanine refers to an amino acid that assists in fighting muscle tiredness. When acid begins to build up in your body during a strenuous workout, beta-alanine helps fight the acid. Consuming beta-alanine like a supplement improves concentration in your body and can improve gym performance. Particularly, this supplement can help boost performance during forceful exercise that lasts for 1-4 minutes. Though, it might not be effective for enhancing workouts that last less than 60 seconds, for example, one set during weight-training exercise.

4. Baking Soda

Most individuals get surprised to learn that this popular household product is a sports supplement. Also recognized as sodium bicarbonate, it works as a buffering agent, which means that it assists in fighting acid build-up in your body.

When it comes to exercise, baking soda can help reduce exercise fatigue, characterized by a “burning” sensation in the muscles. The burning sensation is an indication that the production of acid increases with workout intensity.

5. Citrulline

Citrulline refers to an amino acid that occurs naturally in the body. However, taking citrulline from supplements or foods can increase the levels in your body. These elevated levels can be useful for gym performance. Among the effects of citrulline is an increase in the flow of blood to body tissues. In regards to exercise, this can help provide working muscles with nutrients and oxygen to function properly.

6. BCAAs

BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) are made up of three main molecules: isoleucine, valine, and leucine. You can find these amino acids in large amounts in most protein-containing foods. Even though they are often consumed for their purported muscle-building impacts, they are not as effective as the whole proteins. The high-quality protein in whole foods offer enough BCAAs to support muscle growth and has all the body’s amino acids. However, the use of BCAA supplements has some potential benefits. For example, it can improve stamina and it can also reduce muscle pain after running and weight-lifting.

bcaa ingredients

For long-term strength training you can enhance your performance using caffeine and BCAAs. For shorter more intense activities like muscle burning, beta-alanine, baking soda, citrulline, and caffeine, can help. For optimal performance during a workout such as weight-lifting, you can try caffeine, creatine, and citrulline. Some types of training and certain sports you can use a combination of the above categories. You may need to experiment using ingredients in diverse categories to see what suits you in those cases and when in doubt always consult a Doctor and certified Nutritionist for better advice on what exactly would be beneficial for you.

About the Author:

Samantha Higgins is a professional writer with a passion for research, observation, and innovation. She is nurturing a growing family of twin boys in Portland, Oregon with her husband. She loves kayaking and reading creative non-fiction.

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Collagen pills are a familiar term for most avid skincare enthusiasts. This should come as no surprise, given the supplement’s premise of promoting healthy and glowing skin. You may have seen these rampant in the market lately, as more and more people are starting to learn about them. After all, collagen is one of the most abundant and important proteins in your body, so it sounds plausible to say that supplements or pills may have some benefits.

Like any other health supplement, collagen pills should not be deemed as miracle pills that will transform you overnight. They initially boomed in popularity in the beauty industry due to their claims for youthful skin, but have also started to gain traction for their other health benefits. Though collagen supplements are almost always immediately linked to better skin, the truth is that they are more than just beauty pills. Aside from skin-related benefits, here are a few other possible health benefits that you may get from taking collagen supplements!

Relieves Joint Pain

If you suffer from joint issues due to age or a particular condition, you may be pleasantly surprised to know that some studies point to the effectiveness of collagen supplements in improving joint health. These pills can help promote pain relief, reduce inflammation, and provide better joint support. Though more evidence is still needed on their benefits for arthritis patients, many findings have shown promising and optimistic results. 

Maintains Healthy Bones

Collagen is an essential component of not just your skin but your whole body, so it also constitutes a major part of your bones. As you age, the collagen in your body decreases, leading to reduced bone mass and heightened risk for conditions like osteoporosis. Since collagen is known for its role of strengthening your bones, researchers have looked into the effects of consuming collagen pills. Some studies show that collagen supplements may be able to prevent bone deterioration and reduce the risk of bone diseases.

Improves Gut Function

Collagen pills may help improve your gut function since the protein supplies you with amino acids that can contribute to better digestive health. One of the amino acids, glutamine, is found in collagen that helps in preventing inflammation in your gut wall. Additionally, collagen synthesis is important in repairing the intestinal lining, so supplementing with collagen may aid your body in this function.

Builds Muscle

As a protein source, collagen can also help you build muscle mass, provided that you couple it with resistance or strength training. A small part of your muscle tissues also contain collagen, so having it is necessary to ensure your muscles function well and correctly. More studies still have to be conducted on this particular benefit, but some research has shown its potential to stimulate muscle growth or muscle protein growth.

While it is true that collagen can have beneficial effects on your skin, the benefits of this protein go beyond this. As an integral and abundant protein in your body, collagen can be found in your skin, bones, muscle tissues, tendons, and ligaments.

With that said, collagen supplements are generally considered to be safe, but it is still important to do your research before consuming anything. Since many studies are still being conducted on its benefits, it will be best to look for legitimate companies and products.

About the author

Steffy Alen is a copywriter and content strategist. She helps businesses stop playing around with content marketing and start seeing the tangible ROI. She loves writing as much as she loves the cake. 

 Photo credits

• Adrien Olichon
• Angelos Michalopoulos

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Issues can occur when they are taken in excess and the person becomes addicted both physically and emotionally. Unfortunately, protein supplements may spell trouble for our kidneys, and fat burners can be bad for our hearts when taken excessively.

It might have been easy enough to become addicted, but really hard to break free. If someone has a naturally obsessive personality, that is an added obstacle to overcome. This article is designed to help anyone who cares for someone with these issues, which could be applied to any sort of addictive behavior.

Getting Help and Being Realistic

Some people end up going to rehab to get free. That is one end of the spectrum. Others decide that counselling is the way forward. The experts at On Demand Counseling explain that providing counsel and dealing with the main source of the problem is one of the most effective ways to help and take care of an individual. They believe in asking specialized questions before the session begins, relating to pre-screening and medical insurance eligibility, and to allow the person to admit to the problem. 

One needs to go into this with one’s eyes wide open. There may be relapses and there could be painful withdrawal symptoms. Having said that, it is possible and probably more effective for someone to reduce their supplement intake gradually over three weeks (reducing by 25%, 50%, and 75% respectively) before being completely off. To know that hope can be key to getting through the struggle. 

Getting the Supplements From Food

Rather than just removing the intake of supplements, it is important to fill the gap. Addicts should eat whole foods as they can contain ingredients that do the same job, and in more cases, do it better than the supplements. It’s worth looking up the value of natural vitamins B, C and D as well, as these have benefits in this area also. Research into what foods contain what nutrients will help to find the best sources to replace the supplements.

Rely More on Physical Activities

Many addicts are already taking exercise as part of their overall lifestyle, but this should certainly be done if it isn’t. It is widely known that there is a release of endorphins and other body chemicals that is released during exercise. The rush or ‘high’ is similar to that gained from illegal drugs. These natural chemicals can fight for a person, and help them overcome their addiction. Sometimes the person may be only doing one type of exercise, specifically for the results.

More fun alternatives and more of a variety of exercises should be introduced to allow more enjoyment to be derived from the exercise sessions. This type of ‘exercise’ will actually reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms, whether it is a simple jog or even a game of tennis. One needs to find what they enjoy doing.

Naturally obsessive people should avoid going overboard on exercise, however. It’s also important to be aware that the body is recovering from the addiction, so it won’t be 100% ready for a full routine. The addict must be disciplined yet gentle with themselves.  Hiking, swimming and dancing can count as a valuable exercise in this regard. If someone is elderly or has a medical condition (including pregnancy) it is even more important to consult a doctor. Amongst other things, the medic will recommend gentle exercise. Simple things like gardening or going for a walk with the kids or a dog can be done instead of a visit to the gym. 

There can be a number of reasons why people get addicted in the first place.  The addiction can be physical, and there can also be an emotional dependence on the supplements. Regular connections with close friends can help with addicted people. Mindfulness exercises have also been proven to help with recovery. It can take just a few minutes three times a day to reset the mind and restore its focus. 

It is encouraging that there is hope for people who are in this situation. Help can come through mindfulness practices, friends, exercise and a healthy diet. Professional assistance is also out there. People have to be disciplined and maintain focus, pushing through the pain. On the other side are freedom and the chance of a normal and healthy life.

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Today’s generation faces a lot of environmental threats that weaken the immune system. There are viruses, pollution, and a stressful lifestyle that often lead to diseases. Amidst the global pandemic brought about by the COVID-19, people around the world are searching for ways to strengthen their immunity.

There is a wide array of activities, food, and nutritional supplements such as Enzyme Defense for immune support that can create a protective shield from within. They can stimulate the body’s defense mechanism against the harmful effects of illnesses, kind of acting like a preventative measure.

If you have made a vow to become stronger and healthier this year, here are some surefire ways to jump start your journey towards immunity and wellness. You can take Proteolytic Nutritional Supplements for the below mentioned reasons.

For Digestion

Common signs of a weakened immune system include frequent colds and infections. Chronic stomach troubles such as diarrhea and Irritable Bowel Syndrome are also indicators that the immune system has taken a nosedive.

Studies show that 70 percent of the immune system can be found in the digestive tract. A low amount of beneficial gut bacteria poses a high risk for viruses and inflammation. So, a nutritional supplement that enhances the digestive system’s capability to protect the body is needed to ward off those nasty bugs.
Proteolytic enzymes such as protease, regulate and modulate the body’s inflammatory response. These protein-destroying enzymes inhibit the growth of pathogenic complexes, which adversely affect immune functions.

These enzymes are commonly produced in the stomach or the pancreas. But, if the body cannot produce enough, supplements can be a helpful support.

Studies suggest that proteolytic enzymes found in supplements like Enzyme Defense for immune support, break up, or prevent the formation of pathogenic immune complexes. It consequently leads to enhanced lymphatic drainage. This optimum functioning of the body’s systems significantly boosts the immunity.

For Circulation

Proteolytic enzymes can also reduce the viscosity of the blood, which facilitates good circulation. If the blood flows on an optimal level, the supply of oxygen in the body increases. It consequently transports essential nutrients to the organs and takes away waste products like clockwork.

A few everyday things that you can and should be doing already, to help keep you and your immune system in tip top shape are next.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy gut equals a more robust immune system. If the intestinal flora is in tiptop shape, the body can fight off infections better.

Doctors recommend a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats. Food that is rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and zinc significantly lower inflammation and ward off infections.

People are advised to stay away from processed and fried food since they all tend to be more inflammatory.

It would be best to add more fermented foods such as sauerkraut, miso, yogurt, kimchi, or kefir in your regular meals. They provide more good bacteria in the gut, which then supports the whole immune system.

Get Adequate Sleep

If computers need to rest so that they do not overheat, more so for humans who need rest as well. Sleep essentially reboots the whole system of the body.

When you get a full seven to eight hours of sleep every night, your immune system gets boosted naturally.

On the other hand, surviving on a sleep-deprived state forces your body to churn out stress hormones. These hormones are called cortisol, and may keep you awake and alert, but it wrecks your immune system big time.

So, to ward of illnesses, make sure to get that much-needed shut-eye. The human body is a fantastic structure that is made to weather out any storm. It may get tired or weary at times, so it needs that much needed immune system boost.

Photo credits:

• Pigoff PhotographY on Unsplash
• freestocks
• Michele Blackwell
• Humphrey Muleba

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Maintaining a healthy weight and building strong muscles are essential factors that contribute to the well-being of an individual. If you dedicate yourself to a healthy lifestyle, you will be able to enhance your strength and stamina along with your self-esteem. It can be challenging to take up bodybuilding, especially when you have to monitor your workout regime, diet, and supplements at the same time for getting the desired goals.

You will find many kinds of supplements on the market, and one of them is cannabidiol (CBD). Before we go deeper into the subject, let’s understand the CBD in brief.

The Meaning of CBD

Cannabidiol, also referred to as CBD, is one of the many cannabinoids that can be found in marijuana plants. Its counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is quite popular among the masses because of providing a psychoactive and euphoric experience to users.

However, the effects aren’t the same with CBD because it is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, apparently making it extremely useful in the treatment of various conditions and symptoms, including cancer. The medical benefits of CBD are the reason why many people use it for muscle building.

Why People Use CBD for Muscle Building?

CBD is not meant to replace supplements, but it is definitely a more natural substitute for supplements, which offers several similar benefits and more. CBD binds with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system, which is known for regulating the body’s appetite and metabolism. If you want to purchase CBD products to enhance your muscle-building rate, you can rely on IHF and the varied options available at their online portal.

Several Apparent Benefits of Using CBD for Muscle Building

You will be able to see many noticeable benefits after using CBD for muscle building. They may include:

1. Improving the mindset 

When you start taking CBD, you may see a difference in your mood. It will help in energizing you and keeping your body active at the gym when you are trying out new workout regimes as per your changing needs. Additional effects that you may notice would include decreased muscle pain, and improved sleep, all aiding to enhance your overall mood and recovery.

3. Lowering stress levels

Another major benefit of using CBD would be to help reduce the cortisol levels that tend to slow the process of muscle growth. If your body has high cortisol levels, it will indicate that you are under stress, physical or mental stress.

Because of this reason, your workout might get hampered. When the stress levels are lowered using CBD, you will be able to focus all your attention on muscle building without having to worry about them frequently.

3. Boosting sleep satisfaction 

Another major factor that you absolutely cannot ignore when you are regularly working out is sleep. It would help if you got adequate sleep in order to function adequately. If you don’t fulfill this requirement, your body won’t heal and rebuild the minor muscle tears that result from weightlifting.

It is because your body would be experiencing trouble in synthesizing protein into muscle. When you take CBD, you will also be able to enhance your quality of sleep. CBD helps in relaxing, which will be useful in helping you fall asleep.

4. Decreasing joint inflammation 

Throughout bodybuilding and weightlifting, you might have trouble dealing with joint inflammation. Omega 3 oils, along with other supplements, could be useful for chronic inflammation, but apparently CBD is found to be more effective.

One study was able to find that CBD had the potential to reduce inflammation by 50 percent. If you want help dealing with the pain associated with an old injury, you might find CBD to be extremely useful. With decreased joint inflammation, you will also start enjoying your workouts even more.

5. Increasing energy levels 

One of the major factors to consider in bodybuilding would be energy. CBD helps in regulating blood sugar levels, which has to play a role in determining the amount of insulin produced in the body. When there is a low level of insulin, the body will burn the glucose down and turn it into energy instead of converting it into fat. It will not only help in increasing the energy levels but also enhancing the muscle-building process.

How to Use CBD for Muscle Building

If you are thinking of taking CBD, you should know that the market is filled with CBD supplements. You can find it in the form of capsules and tinctures, which offer a recommended dosage. It is recommended to take a dose of 10-15 milligrams every day.

However, talking to a healthcare professional will provide better insight regarding the dosage and its effects as well as whether it would be right for you.

Photo credits:

• Alora Griffiths
• henri meilhac
• The Match Artist
• Simon Migaj on Unsplash 

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