know the health benefits and risks

For some people who practice physical activities, the use of dietary supplements is a common routine. They are important because, as the name implies, they meet nutritional needs that are often not present in food.

“Supplements are modified foods made from natural foods. They are presented in the form of powder, pill, liquid and even gel”, explains sports nutritionist Ricardo Zanuto.

Advantages of Supplements

Indicated to assist in weight loss and lean mass increase, supplements are sources of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and caffeine. “For those who regularly train the use of supplementswith the guidance of a professional, enhances the results and helps to lose weight, if necessary, apart from the benefits it brings to health”, explains Ricardo Zanuto.

types of supplements

• Amino acid: the raw material is protein, quickly absorbed by the body. This supplement is indicated for athletes who do intense exercises and need protein replacement, for the maintenance of lean mass.
• Creatine: made from animal protein, this supplement provides more strength and energy to optimize training performance.
• Glutamine: amino acid existing in the muscles, glutamine contributes to the reduction of muscle stress and prepares the body for training, recovering muscle fibers muscle tissue.
• Thermogenics and Fat Burners: accelerate metabolism and increase body temperature, promoting a great calorie burning.
• Whey protein:It is used with the aim of muscle growth and maintenance of lean mass, as it offers a large amount of fat-free protein.

It’s not essential

It is important to know that the use of supplements is not mandatory, on the contrary, it is completely optional. This decision must be made in conjunction with your trainer and your doctor, never buy supplements on your own! “It’s totally possible to work out without the aid of supplements and get the desired results”, informs the nutritionist.

Side effects

To consume a product to help or contribute to the improvement of physical formwe must be aware of the essential factors to ensure health and safety, such as quality, registration and release with the responsible bodies, and side effects.

“Those who use supplements with the help of a professional will not have side effects. The problem lies in the use of supplements indiscriminately. A supplementation done incorrectly is harmful, and can even overload the kidneys or liver with excess minerals and proteins. It serves to adjust or complement a balanced diet, combined with the practice of activities”, warns the sports nutritionist.

Consult your doctor and prepare a balanced diet, which is still the best way to guarantee a healthy body. If the doctor prescribes the use of the supplement, strictly follow the guidelines and always be aware of the effects caused by the product in your body.

Do they cause addiction?

The ideal is to discontinue use after a predetermined time, so that your body does not fully adapt to the supplement. “Some indicated supplements as stimulators and thermogenics cause dependence, so their use is suspended after a while”, explains nutritionist Ricardo Zanuto.

Stay tuned!

It is important to check the validity when purchasing the product and choose good quality brands that are regulated in the market, preferably that indicate the nutritional composition on the label. In Brazil, there is no seal directly stamped on the packaging, but the controlling body is Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency). Stores do not require a prescription or follow-up to sell the products, however, if mismanaged, supplements can pose serious health risks! The indication must be given by a doctor or nutritionist.