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what minerals do we need?
Most people are familiar with macronutrients - protein, carbohydrates and fats, but what many people don’t pay much attention to are micronutrients. Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are incredibly important in carrying out bodily functions and processes. They also have a large impact on how we function, our energy levels, how we feel and even proper hormone production. Every single cell in our body requires minerals to create energy, make enzymes, and to make and signal hormones.
Minerals originate from the earth so we must obtain them from the food we eat and the water we drink. The most commonly known and talked about minerals are magnesium, potassium, sodium and calcium. Other important minerals also include iron, zinc, copper, iodine, selenium, phosphorus, boron, chloride plus many more.
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How does caffeine work?
Disclaimer: I always make sure to highlight one thing before talking about any supplement. If you are searching for that one magic pill or powder that will help you hit all your goals, quit while you are ahead, it does not exist.
The reason you are or you are not making progress in the gym has little to do with the supplements you are or are not taking. However, when your training, recovery, and nutrition are dialed in, some supplements can help boost performance just a little bit more! And who doesn’t want that?!?
One such supplement that is heavily backed by science and has been shown to enhance performance is caffeine.
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SPORTS SUPPLEMENTS
Can specific supplements give you a competitive edge or help you to achieve your fitness goals? The answer is, it’s possible.
Don’t be mistaken and think that supplements are the “magic pill” to improving your fitness. Taking supplements without mastering the fundamentals such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and proper recovery is like buying a paddle before the boat. If you have not mastered the basics, purchasing additional supplements will likely be a waste of money.
With that in mind, we will review several of the most research-based sports supplements. Not everyone will respond in the same way, as we are all individuals with different lifestyles and genetic make up. Just because research shows efficacy, doesn’t mean that it will have the same results for you. It’s always best to consult with a qualified health professional before starting any supplements you aren’t sure about.
Supplements should be selected based on goals and current state of health as well as labs or genetics, if available.
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PREBIOTICS, PROBIOTICS AND POSTBIOTICS
What is the difference and what should you take?
We know our gut health is really important and plays a huge role in our overall health. With all the information out there about gut health, it’s easy to get confused.
PRE-WORKOUT
We've all seen pre-workout formulas floating around the industry as a highly marketable supplement. We hear about flashy supplement products like protein powder, creatine, and pre-workout.
But what's all the hype? Is it worth the investment? Do you NEED a pre-workout?
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MAGNESIUM
If you’re a client of Level TEN or an avid Instagram follower of our team and coaches, then you may have realized just how often we chat about and recommend Magnesium as a beneficial supplement!
First, let's chat about Magnesium in general and what it does in the body from a physiological standpoint…