The Most Popular Supplements: What You Need to Know

Our bodies need the right fuel to function properly, and one of the best ways to ensure that is by taking supplements. Supplements can provide essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing from your diet, as well as other beneficial ingredients like medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) found in coconut oil. A classic study of 30 men in the journal Pharmacology found that those who consumed 2 tablespoons of coconut oil a day reduced their waist by an average of 1.1 inches in a month. Coconut oil can be used in a variety of ways, from cooking eggs or sautées to making healthier pancakes or adding it to smoothies.

Green tea is another popular supplement that has many benefits, including weight loss. In one study, participants who combined the daily habit of four to five cups of green tea a day with a 25-minute workout for 12 weeks lost an average of two pounds more than those who did not drink tea. This is due to the unique catechins found in green tea, which can destroy adipose tissue by triggering the release of fat from fat cells and then accelerating the liver's ability to convert that fat into energy.

Creatine

is another popular supplement that has been around for years and continues to be a top choice for athletes.

Study after study shows that when combined with a strength routine, creatine can improve lean body mass, increase strength, and increase muscle size because it helps produce additional energy that muscle tissue uses to build up repetitions. Creatine is like carbohydrate loading for endurance athletes, as it helps boost performance. About half of the adult population takes at least one supplement, and it's easy to understand why they are so popular. People have a legitimate desire for good health, and the supplement industry has a strong desire for good sales.

Pre-workout supplements are especially popular because they help increase mental focus, energy levels, and “muscle readiness” during training sessions. Vitamin D is another popular supplement that retains its ranking year after year as one of the most used supplements on the market. It is important for bone health and helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body. Vitamin D also plays an important role in immune system function and helps reduce inflammation. When choosing supplements, it is important to do your research and consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any new products.

Supplements can be beneficial when taken correctly, but they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet.